“The family believed they had bought a new gaming PC. I was the one to decipher the truth”

I’m sorry to mention the ‘C’ word at this time of year, but the first quarter of a technician’s year is traditionally occupied with rectifying seasonal distress, and 2022 has not disappointed. It takes many forms, the most common relating to the selling, arguably mis-selling, of gaming PCs.

William’s desktop arrived on Santa’s sleigh, but the family couldn’t agree who decided it was the gaming thoroughbred that would have shot William to e-gaming superstardom. The reported issues related to speed and performance, which shouldn’t be a cause for concern with a new PC. Speaking over the phone, I suggested they contact the vendor as there would be a warranty procedure and possibly a free repair. Eventually, I agreed to take a look and find the fault, so they could report back to the seller.

If you’ve bought a new desktop recently, you’ll be aware that the aesthetics of case design have altered. While it’s still possible to find a black box to shove under the desk, what really catches the punter’s eye is recessed lighting and glass panelling to, then made some toast in the time it took for Windows to load. You may have already spotted the problem.