Service

Advanced Macintosh Tune-Up

Estimated Time: 4-6 Hours (depending on size and complexity)
When: For computers that: have a large hard drive or a complex set-up; have been well used and have never had a tune-up; require the hard drive to be reformatted or replaced; that have major problems.
Summary: Back-up or recover data, reinstall OS and all applications, upgrade all applications and operating system, organize and configure computer, check for damaged files and viruses, rebuild directory, test computer.

1. Install RAM Upgrade: More RAM will help your computer run faster and more reliably and is one of the most common upgrades.
2. Run Hardware Diagnostics: All the work on your computer will be for nothing if you discover that your Hard Drive had bads blocks. We test drives, processors, and memory as well as a suite of other diagnostics. We use the latest verison of TechTool Pro for many of these as well as Apple specific diagnostics when required.
3. Organize Files and Applications: Ensure that all documents and applications are where they should be and are organized. This keeps them safe and easier to find and back-up.
4. Run Antivirus Software: If you download files from the web, receive email attachments, or use disks from other computers, you should scan regularly for viruses. Scanning with the latest virus software should be part of any tune-up. VirusBarrier, Norton Antivirus, Virex are the leading commercial antivirus packages. We scan with VirusBarrier or with Norton Antivirus.
5. Back up Data: All your irreplaceable documents and applications can be backed up onto a CD-ROM or DVD. If there were problems with your hard drive, then this is usually done first to prevent data loss. In extreme cases, data recover software can be used such as Data Rescue II, Diskwarrior, or TechTool Pro . We use an external FireWire/USB drive to rapidly back up all data.
6. Clean Computer: Clean the screen and case with iKlear Apple Polish Kit; Clean mouse and keyboard with safe cleaning agents; Remove dust from inside of computer with compressed CO2.
7. Reformat Hard Drive: Using the proper version of Apple's Drive Setup or Disk Utility software, do what is commonly called a "Nuke-and Pave". It essentially means rebuilding your hard drive from scratch. Upgrading to a larger Hard Drive is also possible.
8. Install/Upgrade Operating System: Do a "Clean-Install" of the latest version of the Macintosh Operating System or upgrade your old one, depending on what your computer is capable of. Many updates are free.
9. Upgrade Applications: Install any updates for your main applications. Get the latest versions installed in minutes without having to spend hours downloading the latest versions and upgrades. We can do this very quickly since we have all installers and updates already downloaded onto an external hard drive and can run a utility to scan all your programs to see if there are newer versions. Visit macdownload.com or versiontracker.com to find updates.
10. Install latest Internet Software and Utilities: Install the latest browsers such as Safari or FireFox. Install any updates for your email program. Install the latest Internet and utility applications such as compression software, graphic viewers, a PDF viewer, antivirus software and disk utilities.
11. Configure System and Software Settings: Restore the name of your computer, set up printing, restore networking, and Internet settings including all your previous e-mail addresses and settings, Internet browser bookmarks, spell-checkers and more. Many so-called "experts" forget this step or forget to back up your settings which means you loose your e-mails, bookmarks, and personal settings permanently.
12. Restore Documents: Copy your documents back to the documents folder on your Hard Drive. If you want, they can be permanently backed-up onto CD-ROM or DVD.
13. Rebuild the Desktop (OS 9): This can be done by holding Command-Option during Startup, then wait until asked to rebuild the desktop. This can also be done using a utility such as TechTool.
14. Zap the PRAM: Start-up pressing Command-Option-P-R, then listen for the chime. Let this cycle repeat a few times. A software utility such as TechTool can also be used for this task.
15. Rebuild Directory: Rebuild directory using DiskWarrior. This helps prevent data loss. Do NOT defragment your Hard Drive if you are running OS X. While TechTool or will provide this ability, it will probably cause more harm than good. It is not necessary to defragment if you are running OS X. DiskWarrior, on the otherhand is a jewel of a program and should be run regularly to keep your disk healthy and functioning. Do NOT run Norton SystemWorks on your computer. It is not supported on the Newer Mac OS. The new Norton Antivirus is fine, but the others should be avoided.
16. Repair Permissions: With OS X, it is important to occasionally repair file permissions using the Disk Utility. Many strage problems can occur if this is not done.
17. Test-Drive: Try out your software and make sure it runs, is registered, and all features are enabled. Try connecting to the Internet and check your e-mail and browser settings. Make sure your computer can print, scan, fax, and do everything you want it to do. Make sure your computer has the look and feel that you want.
18. Follow-Up: Tune-Ups include free follow-up support. Call if you have any questions or problems.

Updated February 18, 2006