My two-year-old Dell Inspiron completely shut down the night before a presentation. After the stress cleared, I was able to have my computer "diagnosed," and apparently the motherboard was shot. I couldn't afford a new computer yet, but I also couldn't afford to pay someone the same amount to repair the computer that it would cost for a new one. So a little bit of searching and I found parts-people on-line. They have an amazing selection of parts as well as wonderful how-to videos. I ordered a refurbished motherboard from them (with free shipping, I'd like to add!), and installed it myself, using their instructional video combined with the Dell service manual (which has pretty detailed instructions). I went from a brick to a working computer!! I hope I can get another 2 years (at least!) out of this computer, but if I don't, I know where to go! As an add-on, I plan on recycling my old motherboard with them.
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