"My computer has a virus. What do I do now?"

PC's are susceptible to viruses - also called malware, spyware, trojans, loggers, ad-ware  worms, and many other nasty things.  No matter what you call it and despite every good intention, precaution and expensive protection software, that pesky code can still find its way into your system to wreak havoc and digital destruction. You've heard the horror stories.

...and now, it's happened to you.  Your computer is making weird faces and doing things without your permission.  You cannot access the internet.  There are popups all over your screen. Your Aunt and your neighbor both report that they've received emails from you that you most certainly did not send.  You may not be able to log onto your computer at all.  The virus on your computer may be obvious, or it may be subtle.  Some viruses are designed to hide from the user, others are made to lock your system down immediately.

When you bring your system in to General NanoSystems with a known or suspected infection, we're going to offer you two primary options: 1) Remove the virus, and 2) Format/Windows Re-install.

What does this mean for you and your computer?  Why would you choose one or the other?  

Here's the breakdown...

1.       Virus Removal
- Multi-step process removes the virus, and attempts to repair affected files
- Leaves your data intact
- Leaves your programs installed and intact
- $149
Concerns: This repair is 99% effective, however, in some rare cases some of your files may be permanently infected, thus requiring the second solution - Format/Windows Re-install.

2.       Format/Windows Re-install
- 100% certain to eliminate the virus
- Formats/erases your system's hard drive
- Re-installs Windows using your existing license
- Completely erases ALL data (files, documents, music, pictures, etc)
- ALL programs (including Office, Word, etc) will need to be re-installed
- $99 (Desktops), $99 (Laptops)
Concerns: Your files will be erased.  If you can't afford to lose the data, there may be ways to avoid this.  We recommend making regular backups of all data (pictures, photos, documents) BEFORE it becomes a problem. (We offer this as a service)

So, if you suspect that your computer has contracted a virus (or if you're sure of it), bring it in to our shop and let a technician assess which option would be best for you.  If you have any questions about the diagnostic process or about any repair, call us at (612) 331-3690, or stop by.

Have a great Thursday everyone!
-- General NanoSystems Inc, Service Department

What do you mean by "free"?, A Service FAQ

We want everyone to feel welcome when bringing their computer in to General NanoSystems.

  If you have any question or issue with your PC - large or small - call us or just stop by!  

"What do you mean by 'free'?" 
At General NanoSystems, when we say "free", we mean free - no charge, zip, zilch, nil, nada, nothing.  A visit with our computer repair technicians will cost you nothing more than your time - and that is almost certainly worth it.

"Do I need an appointment?"
Nope! We offer our customers the flexibility to bring ANY computer into our store at ANY time (within our business hours, Monday-Friday: 9-7, Saturday 10-5.). No appointments necessary.   

"What do I need to bring in with my computer?"
Typically, you shouldn't need to bring anything but the tower itself (or laptop).  We have monitors, keyboards, mice and an array of peripheral devices set up and available to service you.  If you are having an issue WITH a specific peripheral (such as a monitor or mouse), this is an exception.  Bring the problematic device with you.

GeneralNanoSystems.com gets a makeover. Check out the NEW look, content.

GeneralNanoSystems.com has always been a great resource for pricing, part information, or anything related to your computer.

 Now, that resource has a new look. 

Check it out!  Click through the new pages and tiles and tell us what you think!


Feedback is appreciated through email, phone (612-331-3690), Facebook, or in person. (We’re always looking to improve your experience as a customer.)  There are a few changes and a kinks yet to be worked out.  Please give us some patience - (and some coffee for our web developer would be welcome too.)

Bloatware

Too often, new computers come with unneccesary software preloaded. These are trial versions of games, tool bars, utilities, etc. This software can slow down the performance of a PC. A clean installation of the operating system can make a PC that is streamlined for performance.

At General NanoSystems we can perform a clean installation of your operating system. In addition, all the PCs we build come with no added "bloatware" or unneeded software.

- General NanoSystems

Using Windows 8 Part 1

The Key(s) To Success.

Whether you just bought your first PC, or you've been using Windows since its beginning, there are few features in Windows 8 that will make you sit up and take notice. It's more-or-less obvious that Windows 8 is designed to merge the look and feel of tablet and mobile computing with the standard GUI of the desktop. Swiping, tapping, touching, pinching - new terms and new technique that can favor the touchscreen. But you don't need a touchscreen to enjoy the new flow and feel of Windows 8! In fact, Microsoft's OS standard has never been more keyboard-friendly. There are a host of new shortcuts and ways to navigate without putting a finger on the screen, or even a finger on the mouse!

Our friends at Redmond Pie have compiled an extensive list. Here are a few highlights:

The Windows Key: Switch to the new Windows 8 Modern UI (the new Start Menu). Get to know it. The windows key is your new best friend. Many of the new commands in Windows 8 use this key.

Windows key + C: Access the charms bar Charms are catching on in Windows 8, but accessing them with a delicate swipe of the mouse can be frustrating. Use this command to show the Charms at any time, it any application.

Windows key + X: Access the Windows Tools Menu This may not be relevant for every user, but if you routinely access programs and utilities such as Disk Management, Device Manager, and Command Prompt, this is an extremely useful command.

Windows key + Z: Brings up the App Bar when you have a Modern Desktop App running This command has the same affect as right-clicking within any Modern Desktop App. Each application will have its own set of functions.

Windows key + W: Access the Settings Search screen This is a shortcut to the "Settings" charm. If you're looking for a menu bar across the top of your program window, look again. Most of the technical menu options are now accessible here.

Of course, there are many more changes and new additions brought through Windows 8. Here at General Nanosystems we're embracing the changes in personal computing technology. If you have questions, comments, or if you would just like to talk computers, just let us know! Stop in, visit our website, or give a call!

-General NanoSystems

New sidewalk

As many of you know, University Ave. has received a face lift with the construction of the new light rail line between downtown St. Paul and downtown Minneapolis. The Green Line (http://onthegreenline.com/) runs right in front of General NanoSystems and the Prospect Park station is just steps away.

Here are a few photos of what our store front now looks like with the new sidewalk.

Tips to protect your PC this holiday shopping season

This holiday season Americans will be using their computers more than ever to check deals online and keep in touch with family and friends. Here are a few tips to keeping your PC safe from viruses and spyware this season.

1. Make sure that your PC is up to date with all operating system patches and anti-virus updates. In addition,  programs like Adobe Acrobat Reader and Adobe Flash have periodic security updates that are necessary for protection from spyware and viruses.

2. Never click a link in an email that you are unfamiliar with the sender.

3. When ordering online check and make sure that you see the https:// heading in your web browser. The s at the end of the http means that the site is using encryption between your browser and their server.

Wishing you safe browsing this holiday season!

- General NanoSystems
 www.generalnanosystems.com