There's actually a reason why I haven't been posting
...because my laptop died, out of warranty. Although this has been discussed a little on dfunkman's journal, to recap:
1. It just stopped working, no warning, no falling off of things
2. Everyone seems to think that it's the logic board
3. I looked at it literally the day before it up and died and thought, "I should make a backup of things" but did I? Nooooooooooooo...
4. I am probably going to crack the case to get my HD and data out. I've even bought the tools to do so. If the logic board is unplugged or something stupid, I'll fix that too.
5. I'm more dubious about my ability to install a new logic board, especially since the part costs anywhere from $300-$400. I really don't want to fuck up a $400 part.
6. Apple will fix for $375 flat fee, but only if I don't open the case to get my data out! They want an extra $150 for backup. Rrrrr.
7. Therefore, if I can fix this thing for less than $525, I suppose I've come out ahead. Plus mad geek cred for opening a Powerbook and surviving to tell the tale.
8. The laptop-opening guide is here: http://www.ifixit.com/Guide/Mac/PowerBook-G4-Al-15-Inch-1-1-5-GHz-BT-1-1/Logic-Board
9. If I truly fuck things up, there's a repair guy in Missouri (on eBay) that might save my butt even if I've opened the computer already. He wants $399 plus $18 shipping... less if I have the part and send that to him as well.
10. Kind and gentle electronics repair thoughts are very appreciated.
11. Also, I have a test on Friday and a Scottish dancing weekend to go to, so I probably won't be doing anything to it until Sunday.
1. It just stopped working, no warning, no falling off of things
2. Everyone seems to think that it's the logic board
3. I looked at it literally the day before it up and died and thought, "I should make a backup of things" but did I? Nooooooooooooo...
4. I am probably going to crack the case to get my HD and data out. I've even bought the tools to do so. If the logic board is unplugged or something stupid, I'll fix that too.
5. I'm more dubious about my ability to install a new logic board, especially since the part costs anywhere from $300-$400. I really don't want to fuck up a $400 part.
6. Apple will fix for $375 flat fee, but only if I don't open the case to get my data out! They want an extra $150 for backup. Rrrrr.
7. Therefore, if I can fix this thing for less than $525, I suppose I've come out ahead. Plus mad geek cred for opening a Powerbook and surviving to tell the tale.
8. The laptop-opening guide is here: http://www.ifixit.com/Guide/Mac/PowerBook-G4-Al-15-Inch-1-1-5-GHz-BT-1-1/Logic-Board
9. If I truly fuck things up, there's a repair guy in Missouri (on eBay) that might save my butt even if I've opened the computer already. He wants $399 plus $18 shipping... less if I have the part and send that to him as well.
10. Kind and gentle electronics repair thoughts are very appreciated.
11. Also, I have a test on Friday and a Scottish dancing weekend to go to, so I probably won't be doing anything to it until Sunday.