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You can almost hear the voice of a flight attendant saying, "Ladies and gentlemen, "Brace for impact. “Brace, Brace, Head Down, Stay Down!”
Well, my computer crashed and burned this week.
But honestly, I can't complain because the computer lasted over 9 years with no issues.
I'm a Hewlett Packard fan. Always have, always will be.
My first computer (in 1998) was an HP and lasted 10 years. Since then, that's all I've ever owned.
I'm also a fan of desktops. I've owned one laptop in my life and enjoyed the mobility of it. However, I do a lot of photo editing and movie streaming on my computer, so a larger desktop monitor works best for me. And I prefer using a separate keyboard and mouse.
The Crash-
I could tell something was up with my computer because, for the past month or so, it had been making weird noises and getting very sluggish. Instead of following my intuition and investing in a new computer immediately, I pretended to be an ostrich with my head in the sand.
But what I did was slowly transfer documents and photographs to another location so I'd have them for safekeeping.
However, I should have been quicker about it because I lost quite a bit of stuff in the crash.
That's my fault. You snooze, you lose.
Sunday, when I got home from work, that's when my computer began its final descent. I got a similar message to this one. Whenever you see the "frowny face" you know it's not good...
The computer kept running test after test but got to a point where it wouldn't allow me to restart. It just FROZE.
Eventually, I turned it off and accepted the fact that the next day I would have to buy a new computer. That night, using my cellphone, I searched the Internet and found one on sale at Staples.
The Dreaded Purchasing Process-
For me, the process of purchasing a new computer is as dreadful as purchasing a new car. And I don't mean forking out the money for one. I mean having to deal with the salespeople who are vultures; wheeling and dealing, trying to sell you "add-ons" and a more expensive computer.
The guy (Greg) who helped me was actually very nice. However, when I told him I was not interested in purchasing an extended warranty, his manager (who was standing on the other side of the aisle listening to us), pulled him aside and drilled him on making sure he sold me an extended warranty. When he came back, he said, "I know you said you didn't want an extended warranty, but computers don't last as long as they used to, so I STRONGLY suggest you purchase one."
And my response to him was, "Yes, that's what they all say every time I purchase a new computer. My previous computer lasted over 9 years. That's long enough. HPs are famous for consistent reliability and long life. So no, I do not want to purchase an extended warranty, but thank you. And please inform your manager that if he asks you to ask me again, I will walk out of this store and NOT purchase anything."
When I got up to the register to pay for the computer, Greg looked over at me and softly said, "I apologize for that. I didn't want to ask you again, but my manager insisted."
I said, "No worries, I understand. I realize your manager gets corporate brownie points and monthly bonuses for every extended warranty you sell. I don't blame you at all. You've been great."
We shook hands, and I left.
Setting Up My New Computer-
When I got home, I couldn't wait to set up my new computer! And it was so easy. This computer has Windows 11, which I have to say, I like much better than Windows 10. The software is cleaner and faster.
Like my last computer, this is an all-in-one desktop. Sleek and compact.
I took a few photos to show you...
Yup, I love my new HP...
Have a faaaaaabulous rest of your week, everyone!
💗
Ron, you're the only person I know who can make something so tragic as a computer crash sound so funny! I love your positive attitude, despite losing stuff on your computer. That's happened to me (a few times) and I felt like I was mourning the loss of a person. Lol! I now use a USB flash drive, just to be on the safeside.
ReplyDeleteYour new computer looks so spiffy! Don't you love the look and feel of a new computer?
Congrats, Ron! And I'm happy to hear you got it on sale! xo
Morning, Candice!
ReplyDeleteYes, it's happened to me a few times as well. Trust me, at first I freaked out about the crash. I panicked. But then I realized it was the end of the world. I also realized I had gotten over 9 years out of that computer, so it was time to get a new one. Plus, it was my own fault that I didn't react quicker.
"I now use a USB flash drive, just to be on the safeside."
Thanks for reminding me about that because it's a great idea! I used to do that with my photos. However, now I keep most of them on a cloud.
OMG, yes, I love the look and feel of a new computer! And I never realized how slow my other computer was getting. I though it was my Internet service at first, but then found out is was the computer that was the problem.
Thanks so much for stopping by, my friend! Have a great rest of your week!
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Ron, I'm a fan of HP too! I've had other brands in the past (Dell and Acer), but they didn't have the longevity. I have two HPs, a desktop and a laptop.
ReplyDelete"You can almost hear the voice of a flight attendant saying, "Ladies and gentlemen, "Brace for impact. “Brace, Brace, Head Down, Stay Down!” -- ROFLMAO! So true!
And good for you for speaking up to the salesperson being so insistent about purchasing an extended warranty. They always try to scare you into purchasing one. And if you do purchase one, it's like a car, the problem is NEVER covered under the warranty, so you end up spending more money anyway.
Handsome looking computer! I like that screen saver. Enjoy, Ron!
Hey there, Daniel!
ReplyDeleteIsn't HP faaaabulous? I had an Acer tablet years ago, that was a gift I got from my job. I still have it somewhere, however, the battery life (even when it was new) was horrendous. It literally lost the power 20 minutes after I turned it on.
The laptop I spoke of in this post was also an HP. That too lasted me a long time.
"They always try to scare you into purchasing one. And if you do purchase one, it's like a car, the problem is NEVER covered under the warranty, so you end up spending more money anyway."
You said it! And you're right, if something does go wrong, isn't it ironic that the issue is never covered under the warranty? When I had a car, that happened to me several times.
Thanks! I'm very happy with this new computer. And I really, really like Windows 11.
Always great to see you comments, Daniel. Have a grrrrreat day!
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Ugh. Why is the whole process so stressful? And the older I get, the more I hate having to adjust to new things, like a new Windows program or a change in the way an app works. It always feels like they are making things harder, not easier.but I’m glad the transition went well for you, Ron.
ReplyDeleteWe are not brand loyal with computers. I think my spouse just buys whatever is a good deal and has good reviews. We’ve only had one bad experience, and that was with a Dell when it died literally the week after the warranty (that comes with it) expired. My husband called and requested consideration and they said nope, so he told them we’d never buy another Dell product again.
Good for you for respectfully telling the sales guy why you didn’t want an extended warranty. That stuff drives me nuts. I think the last time I bought an appliance and they gave me the pressure talk, I told the guy that maybe they shouldn’t be selling products that they don’t think will last long!!! Bahaha, that shut him up! I said it in a joking fashion, but I made my point.
Congrats on your new baby and I look forward to your future posts from your new screen! XO
I know, right? Why does it have to be so stressful?
ReplyDelete" It always feels like they are making things harder, not easier, but I’m glad the transition went well for you, Ron."
Thank you. And yes, I agree! For example, look at the last update on Blogger. It's the WORST update ever. Nothing works properly and it takes forever to publish a post. It was perfect the way it was.
I know that change is inevitable in life, and I'm okay with that. However, some things don't need to change. I have that work. Certain cosmetic brands are forever changing the way a product is made to improve it. Yet, it didn't NEED to be improved.
" My husband called and requested consideration and they said nope, so he told them we’d never buy another Dell product again. And we haven’t."
That's one brand I always hear very similar stories. And that's why I've never purchased a Dell.
" I think the last time I bought an appliance and they gave me the pressure talk, I told the guy that maybe they shouldn’t be selling products that they don’t think will last long!!! Bahaha, that shut him up!"
Bwhahahahahaha! LOVED THAT!! And good for you! Like I said, Greg was great. It's his manager that was being a pushy asshole.
Thank you! I'm VERY happy with this new computer. And I'm also happy that I paid off the credit card bill today. So it's All mine!
Have a faaaaaaaabulous weekend, my friend!
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Oh Ron, you and I are sympatico about this topic because last month I had to purchase a new computer as well. And I agree, the process is dreadful. And when it comes to something like a computer, I don't like to order online, I prefer going into a store and seeing it up close, and testing it out before I buy it. I've had various brands, but have the best luck with HP and Toshiba (which is what I have now). We use Mac's as work, but I refuse to spend that much money for my personal computer, or a cellphone.
ReplyDelete" So no, I do not want to purchase an extended warranty, but thank you. And please inform your manager that if he asks you to ask me again, I will walk out of this store and NOT purchase anything." --- GOOD FOR YOU, RON!
And you're right, his manager is probably making monthly bonuses on every warranty the salespeople sell!
You new computer is STUNNING! What a HUGE monitor! Like you, I prefer using a desktop at home.
Congratulations, Ron! Have a wonderful weekend! xox
Hola, Denise!
ReplyDelete"Oh Ron, you and I are sympatico about this topic because last month I had to purchase a new computer as well."
You too?!?! And yes, I'm with you, I don't like purchasing something (like a computer) online without first SEEING and TESTING it out. I spotted this one on Staple's website and then walked to one of their stores not far from my apartment. Luckily, they had it in-stock, so I grabbed it. The price was very reasonable.
"We use Mac's as work, but I refuse to spend that much money for my personal computer, or a cellphone."
Agree! My job uses all Mac devices, so I'm familiar with how they work, it's just that I'm frugal and don't want to spend that kind of money. And as far as my cellphone goes, I use Android.
I tried to be as nice as I could with Greg because I knew it wasn't his fault. But I also wanted him to strongly know that I was NOT going to purchase an extended warranty.
Thanks! I love the look of this new computer. And the 24 inch monitor is faaaaaaabulous!
Have a wonderful weekend too! And much thanks for stopping by!
X
You're so welcome, Ron! USB flash drives are cheap and you can get them at Target.
ReplyDeleteThank you, Candice! 👍
ReplyDeleteWow, 9 years! I had my old computer for over eight years and thought it had served me well! But I'm sorry for your loss, which IS a loss. My old computer was my favorite. But I like my new one as well.
ReplyDeleteGood for you for not purchasing the warranty, which is always a scam. I love your new computer!! It's all shiny and new! Here's to many more blog posts!!
Have a great weekend, my friend! 😘❤️
Congrats on your new purchase, Ron! I admire the way you handled the sales guy -- you held your ground in such a nice way, empathized with his manager's goal of corporate brownie points, and praised the buying experience overall. Well done! Sounds like you took a page right out of the Dale Carnegie book ;)
ReplyDeleteAnd your HP is beautiful -- so sleek and white! I can see where you'd appreciate anything techy that lasts almost a decade these days. I've never had a computer last that long, and having to transfer stuff to a new one -- after you've undergone the buying process) can be wretched.
You really like Windows 11? That's encouraging. Anything faster and more user-friendly is a GOOD thing! Now go enjoy your weekend! xx
Greetings, Kari!
ReplyDeleteI know, isn't 9 years great? I took very good care of the computer (updates, monthly defragmenting, and keeping it as clean as possible when comes to have too much stored on it), but eventually all computers new to be replaced.
8 years is great too! I've talked to some people who get a new computer every 4-5 years. Glad you like your new one!
The only computer I never liked and was glad when it crashed, was when Windows had Vista software. OMG, it was horrendous!
"I love your new computer!! It's all shiny and new! Here's to many more blog posts!!"
Thank you, my friend! I'm so happy with this one!
Have a super rest of your week and weekend! And thanks for stopping by!
X
Helloooooooooooooo there, Debbie!
ReplyDeleteAw...thank you, my friend!
"Sounds like you took a page right out of the Dale Carnegie book ;)"
OMG, that's so funny!
I think because I've been in retail for sooooooooooo many years, I know how it works "behind the scenes" and how they PUSH customers into add-ons and upgrades so that they get bonuses every month. And each store gets "graded" on different things. Even the company I work for does it. However, I refuse to pressure my clients with all that stuff. I don't mean to brag, but I bring in a lot of money for my company because I have such a loyal clientele. And I have that clientele because they trust me. Therefore, my company leaves me alone and doesn't pressure me. THANK GOD!
Yes, so far, I really love Windows 11. It's much cleaner and faster than 10. I didn't mind 10 at all, but now that I have 11, I can see how the changes definitely made improvements.
Thank so much for stopping by, my friend. Have a faaaaaaaabulous weekend!
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Kudos, Ron! Not only for your new HP, but also for standing your ground and not succumbing to the pressure of purchasing an extended warranty. That totally pisses me off when salespeople do that. When I got my last computer, I had to deal with that too. And they were so insistent, which made me resist even more.
ReplyDeleteMy girlfriend is a graphic artist, so our computers at home are all Apple. But before we got together years ago, I was an HP customer. I also had a Samsung way back. I did indeed enjoy my HP. Like you shared, they have a good name for themselves for longevity. And did you know that Steve Jobs worked for HP before he created his Mac empire? I bet he learned a lot from HP.
Great looking computer, dude! Well done!
On another note, I saw on the news about how the Canada wildfires have not only hit NY, but Philadelphia as well. How's it going there? Stay well!
Hiya, Matt!
ReplyDeleteThanks, bud! That pisses me off as well. That's why I stood my ground and said no. The guy who helped me was very nice, it was his manager who was the problem. And when I saw him coaching him in the aisle, it made me even more pissed.
"And did you know that Steve Jobs worked for HP before he created his Mac empire? I bet he learned a lot from HP."
Yes, I did know that because many years ago, after he passed away, I saw a documentary which mentioned his time with HP. And he was even quoted as saying that his time with HP laid the ground work for his future endeavors.
Thanks for your concern. Yes, we did get hit with smoke, but not nearly as bad as NYC. The worst was yesterday morning and afternoon. However, today was much better. There is still a bit of fog in the air, but not bad. When I got up yesterday morning and looked out the window, I thought it was just due to FOG.
Have a super weekend, Matt! Much thanks for stopping by!
X
Is your air quality as bad as the news is reporting???
ReplyDeleteNo. Yesterday was the heaviest. It looked as though a thick, heavy fog had rolled in. In fact, that's what I thought it was when I looked out the window early in the morning. Today there is still a bit in the air, but not bad at all. Of course, many people are running around with faces masks on, in complete panic. Much like when COVID first happened. I think NYC got hit much worse because it's closer to Canada.
ReplyDeleteI'm sure you heard we had a water contamination threat back in March. And now this. You know me though, I don't scare easily so I'm doing fine.
Thanks so much for asking, my friend...X
That's great news, Ron! Glad to hear it! Yes, NY was bad.
ReplyDeleteStay well, dude!
Will do. And thanks....🙏
ReplyDeleteI’m glad to hear you are doing fine! XO
ReplyDelete🙏❤️
ReplyDeleteOooh, I like your new HP desktop! I can totally see why you'd want to stick with the same brand. Nine years is a long time to have had it working so well. Bummer that you lost some things when it finally froze though. That's happened to me as well. The only thing I really miss are photos that I wasn't able to transfer. Still have many of my old camera cards, so technically I do still have them... but you know photos on a computer where the ones chosen to save, crop, color-correct, make albums for, etc. Probably toooo big a project to start again and go thru all the old memory cards.
ReplyDeleteFor many years now I've been using a MacBook Air laptop. Don't love the price of Apple products, and this particular one has a broken (didn't realize initially) port. I could buy a USB hub type device and just go thru the one port that does work. And, probably should figure out how to transfer things via a flash drive. LOL
Wishes for many many years of enjoyment from your new computer! Looks real nice!
Thank you, Mary! :)
ReplyDeleteYes, I seem to have the best luck with HP. And it's funny because when I purchased my first computer, I really didn't know anything about them or which brand was which. I just randomly picked HP. I guess you could call it destiny! LOL! So, I've stuck with them ever since.
"Bummer that you lost some things when it finally froze though. That's happened to me as well. The only thing I really miss are photos that I wasn't able to transfer. "
Exactly! And I did save some, but not all. It's not the photos I mind losing. It's certain documents and downloads that I didn't save. I really should have considered using a flash drive as my backup.
I know so many people who prefer Apple products (computers, phones, iPads, etc.) because they're also very good quality. I'm just too cheap and can't see spending that much money. Ha! My job uses all Apple products, so I'm very familiar with them.
Thanks so much for stopping by, my friend. Happy Monday to you!
X
Ron, I freaking LOVE your blog post photo and the corralation between your computer crash and a plane crash. You are so clever!
ReplyDeleteBummer about the crash and losing stuff. But congrats on getting a new one so quickly. And how nice it looks! Hubby and I have had both Dell and HP. And you're right, the lifespan of HP is a hell of a lot longer than Dell. I can't see spending all that money for a Mac. I know everyone says how incredible they are, but I refuse to spend the money for one. Besides, I hear Mac users say that they don't last as long as they used to. Mac to me seems like a cult. LOL!
Hey, is that a eucalyptus wreath over your computer? I looks like one. VERY nice!
Hope you're enjoying the break we're having in the heat and humidity. So far, June has not been too bad. But I bet July will bring it in.
Have a great week, sir Ronald! xox
Hey there, Elaine!
ReplyDeleteThanks! I found the new one really quickly. And I'm glad I did because I couldn't go without a computer more than a day. And it wasn't even a whole day. It was more like a night. I got a good deal on it. It was the only all-in-one on sale, so I grabbed it. It has a nice big monitor and a DVD player inside, so I can use it to watch my movies on DVD!
You're so right! Mac is like a cult. Some people wouldn't have any other devices other than Apple. Me? I'm way to frugal to spend that money.
"Hey, is that a eucalyptus wreath over your computer?"
VERY good, Elaine! What a great eye you have. And yes, it's a eucalyptus wreath that I got almost two years ago. It was a wreath that my work had as a decoration in the showroom for Christmas. When it came time to throw it out, I asked my manager if I could have it and she gave it to me. It's still in excellent shape!
OMG, yes! Thank God for the break in the heat and humidity. Today was just lovely. Cool and no humidity! And you're right, July is usually the hottest summer month. OY VEY!
Thanks for stopping by, neighbor! Have a fantastic week!
X
Wow Ron, I can't believe you've had that wreath for TWO years? It looks in great shape. Like you just got it! I love the smell of eucalyptus. So clean and fresh!
ReplyDeleteOMG, me too! I love that aroma! I have a pure eucalyptus oil that I sprinkling on the wreath every couple of weeks to keep it smelling fabulous!
ReplyDelete