We specialise in providing computer repair services and technical help to the small business and for the home user with all levels of experience.

We can offer computer repair, maintenance, upgrades and support either in your home or business or at our workshop. We offer competitive rates, a rapid service and can often provide services at a fixed price. We offer a No Fix - No Fee on our repair services, so in the unlikely event that we are unable to fix your computer, we will return it to you and you will owe us nothing.

Services

• Computer diagnostics and repair. If your computer is not working how it should, we can offer a solution for a fixed fee.
• Hardware Upgrades. Why not add a new lease of life to your computer by considering upgrading components.
• Complete System setup and configuration.
• Internet and Broadband installation and configuration. Incorrectly configured broadband connections can lead to increased security risks. We help you achieve piece of mind by knowing that your connection is secure. We also setup and configure Dial-up Internet connections.
• Network setup and installation. Share one Internet connection with multiple computers.
• PC Health-checks. Protect your PC against problems before they happen.
• Virus / Spyware removal. We can remove problematic viruses and Spyware and help you protect against new ones.
• MS Windows specialists. Add the latest features and security to your computer by upgrading your operating system.
• Software Installation and upgrades.
• On-site services. Repairs and maintenance carried out at competitive hourly rates either in your own home or business.
• Custom services. If you require a service not listed on this site, then please contact us for a free no-obligation quotation, often at a fixed price.

Features

• No fix - No Fee In the unlikely event that we are unable to fix your PC we will return it to you and you will owe nothing.
• Free collection and re-delivery of your computer with every fixed price job if inside our service area.
• Fast service. For scheduled upgrades, repairs or maintenance if collected before noon your computer is normally returned within 24hrs. For non-scheduled repairs requiring new parts to be ordered, we aim to return your computer to you within 3 days. We make sure we only use the fastest, quality suppliers.
• On-site services at your home or business if you prefer. Please note that not all fixed price jobs can be carried out on-site. In these instances we will offer competitive hourly rates. For more details, please see the service descriptions.
• Out of hours service available. We appreciate that many of you have to work during the day, and we can accommodate you. Your PC can be collected before you go to work or in the evening at no extra charge, allowing you to get on with everyday life. We can schedule on-site repair and maintenance during the evenings (before 7pm), and weekends. In urgent cases it may be possible to collect your computer in the evening, retuning it to you the following morning, or to arrange an immediate visit. Local expertise - Local services.

Pricing

• Fixed price services for most work. Whenever we collect your computer, we will carry out the work at a fixed price agreed beforehand.
• No call out charges for on-site work within a 10 mile radius of Bisley. This area covers From S. Cheltenham & Gloucester in the North to Cirencester in the East, Tetbury in the South and to Stonehouse in the West. Tiered call out charges apply to other areas though we will inform you of this before any call out is made.
• Competitive on-site hourly rates available, for those on-site jobs where we cannot offer a fixed price.
  Cash, or cheques accepted. Please see our Repair Costs section for more information and payment terms

Fixed Price Service - £65.00

If your computer has been infected by a virus or viruses, or you suspect you have a virus, we can often safely remove them from your system leaving your system un-damaged. Most Viruses can be safely removed with no lasting effects, though more dangerous viruses which have caused damage to key operating system files and hard disk areas may require a complete system restore or re-install. We will attempt to remove the virus and try to recover any lost or damaged data (if applicable) at the time of the service. If we diagnose the virus as being of a more dangerous variety, requiring a complete system restore along with hard drive format and partition to remove then you will be advised of this.

As a rough guide, if you have recently had access to the Internet or files on CDROM or other media, and if you computer system is bootable, but showing some odd behaviour, then your may have a virus, which can normally be removed at the time of the service with no lasting effects.

Odd behaviour can include being unable to access the internet or certain internet sites, odd error messages, anti-virus software which used to be installed is no longer running, unable to update your virus definitions via the Internet, slow behaviour of the computer, the computer crashes often etc. If your computer no longer boots, and gives an error message referring to the "master boot record (MBR)" or "boot sector" you may either have a hard disk failure, or a virus which has attacked and destroyed or written to your "master boot record", (sector 0 of the disk). With this type of virus we can often salvage the hard disk, and sometimes the files on it, though more often than not we may need to re-partition the disk which creates a new MBR. Unfortunately this process often leads to an un-readable disk so effectively destroys all data and files on it which means that the disk must be re-formatted and the operating system re-installed - a Clean Install. We have software tools available to re-create only the MBR, leaving the data areas of the disk un-touched, however we advise customers that the process MAY or MAY NOT work, and you should plan for the worst case scenario.

Note: A full clean install of your operating system is not included in the fixed service price, as this is a time consuming process, but we will quote you a competative rate to complete this work if it is nessesary.

What is included in this service:-

• Virus or multiple virus identification and removal.
• Advice of Internet safety and security and how to avoid catching Viruses in the future.
• Computer Internet security audit. We will check you Internet settings to ensure that you are using 'safe' settings. We will also provide advice on how best to secure your Internet access.
• Installation and configuration of the excellent AVG Anti-virus Free edition if you are a home user. This package offers fabulous features and "Virus definitions" are updated daily or whenever a new virus is identified, ensuring you have the best possible protection against viruses and Spyware. If you prefer, we can supply any other Anti-Virus software that you request.The software will be registered in your name, and we will invoice you for the exra cost along with the service.

What is not included in this service:-

• Any additional software or hardware required. Normally none is required.
• Repair of the Operating system (Windows) which requires a complete re-installation. This can be carried out at a discounted rate whichyou will be advised of before any work commences. You must also provide us with the original Windows installation disks, and their unique installation number (normally attached to the computer in the form of a label).
• Any guarantee to recover lost files or programs which have been destroyed by the virus.
• Back-up of your data. We do not back-up your data, so please ensure you have saved all important files to floppy disk or CD before we start work on your PC. We offer a back-up service for an extra cost should you require it. We cannot be held responsible for files lost or deleted during work on your computer though we will endeavour wherever possible to leave customer's files unchanged. Occasionally it may be necessary to delete or over-write files during the process. Booking our service is acknowledgement of these risks.

Broadband Installation Service £65.00

Broadband Internet access is now the standard for Internet access. Because broadband is an 'always on' internet connection, security measures must be taken when setting it up. We offer a Broadband installation service to help customers to either upgrade to broadband, or change suppliers - maybe adding wireless at the same time.

Before a broadband installation and configuration can be carried out you must have an active ADSL telephone line and broadband Internet account. We are happy to offer advice on how to set up an account with an Internet Service Provider (ISP).

What is included in this service:-

• Installation of the hardware and software supplied by the your chosen Internet Service Provider.
• Configuration of the hardware and software.
• Configuration of security settings to minimize risk of hackers gaining access to your computer. Because broadband is an 'always on' connection, it is vitally important that security issues are considered when upgrading to broadband. We will configure your security settings and advise you on additional security measures that you may require.
• Consultation and training of the differences between dial-up and broadband Internet access.

What is not included in this service:-

• Required hardware or software. Most Internet Service Providers provide the hardware and software at a discounted rate when you sign up for a broadband internet account, or we can supply it to you at extra cost.
• The broadband internet account. It is your responsibility to ensure that your line is ADSL enabled and that you have an active Internet account before our visit. We are happy to advise on this.
• Networking of computers to share the broadband connection. For advanced broadband installation options, please see our Networks section.

It can be daunting setting up a new computer if you're not sure what you are doing!

If you don't know what "USB" is or where to connect the "PS2" mouse then this service may be of interest to you. Whether you have just bought a new computer or have acquired a second hand one, our System Setup service could be what you are looking for.

We will come to your home or business, un-pack your computer and peripherals, connect all of the hardware together and configure the system so it is ready for use. If you have an active Internet account we will set up the software and configure your settings so you are online and ready to surf the Internet. If not, we can supply and install one of the many "Free" access internet accounts ready for use.

What is included in this service:-

• An on-site visit to your business or premises if inside our service area. Outside our service area and a call out fee may apply.
• Un-packing checking and installation of the computer hardware and peripherals. This includes connecting up printers, scanners, digital cameras and other common items.
• Configuration of Windows operating system and installation of any peripheral driver software.
• Setting up you Internet account and configuring your email account (if applicable). Note: you must supply either your existing Internet service provider (ISP) details and software, or new ISP details and software.
• Testing of the PC, printer, scanner and other peripherals installed at the time.
• A brief familiarisation of your computer with you.

What is not included in this service:-

• Installation of additional software. If you require additional software installed (for example "office" packages) this can be accommodated at our hourly rates, if requested before the visit.
• Driver software. If setting up a new system this should be supplied with the system or peripherals. It is your responsibility to ensure that all installation and driver disks are available for us to use at the time of installation. This is particularly important if setting up a second hand system. We are happy to advise and to acquire driver software if requested before the visit.
• Networking to other computers, unless requested beforehand. Additional fees may apply.
• Installation of hardware upgrades.
• Routing of cables and wires in order to make the computer function for example telephone extension cables, power extension cables. It is expected that you will have a position ready to install the computer with suitable power sockets and telephone line access if setting up an Internet account.
• Any additional hardware required, for example printer cables, printer cartridges or toner. Many printers DO NOT come with a printer cable, so if purchasing a new printer, please ensure you have the appropriate cable ready for the installation.

After a lot of research we have teamed up with Depositit to offer a secure off-site backup facility to our customers. Why do we recommend Depositit? We use them ourselves for all our business data so that's the best testimonial we can offer!

Depoitit is a state of the art protection service that can save you time and money - as well as all your data!

With all the viruses and spyware around today, data loss is a growing problem and losing data, such as letters, databases, e-mails, or music files causes major disruption, and if you are a business impacts heavily on your ability to trade.

How safe is your data?

• The data on all computers can be lost or corrupted as a result of viruses, human error, power failures, fire, flood, hardware malfunctions and theft - These threats are beyond your control.
• According to the dti: "70% of businesses that have suffered a severe data loss closed down within 18 months".
• The cost of data loss is now so high that most Insurance companies refuse to cover it.

Making daily backup copies of your data and storing them correctly will protect you and there are two ways you can do this.

• Back up manually using traditional methods or
• Back up automatically using Depositit

Backing up manually takes time and effort and as a consequence may often be neglected! Someone always has to remember to rotate the media, carry out the backup, confirm that it did so successfully and then store it safely off-site. Also what happens when the person responsible is sick or on holiday?

Backing up manually can also give a false sense of security, as the media used is prone to wear and tear, so even following these lengthy procedures does not guarantee that your files will be retrievable when the critical time comes to restore them.

Backup copies are worthless if they can’t actually be restored!

DEPOSITIT backs up your data automatically, every single day over a secure Internet connection, stores 3 separate copies in 3 maximum-security off-site facilities and then sends you an e-mail to confirm the backup is complete.

The entire process is completely automatic. There's nothing to remember, nothing to do and no hardware to buy or maintain. Depositit encrypts your data using military grade 448-bit technology (almost 4 times higher than most Internet banks), ensuring complete privacy. If data from your computer, laptop or server is ever lost, stolen or corrupted, Depositit ensures that there is always a current copy available for immediate retrieval. All you have to do is select the data you want to restore (be it a single document, digital photos, music files or your entire hard drive, select OK and watch a copy instantly return to your computer. It's that easy.

Depositit also automatically archives 30 previous copies of your data, so if you ever get a virus, you can go back in time and retrieve a clean copy that was made before the attack. Depositit is the safest, easiest and most secure solution for all your data protection needs

How much does it cost?

Using traditional backup devices will cost a minimum of £300 a year (this includes time spent backing up, hardware & media) and does not guarantee 100% that your data will be retrievable. Additional expense may also be required for engineers if the device fails!

Depositit costs just £10 a month. £120 a year for a state of the art data protection service that automatically backs up your PC’s, laptops, pda’s, mobile phone and networks every single day.

What would you miss more ... £10 a month or all the data on your computer?

Depositit is the safest, easiest, fastest, and most cost effective solution for all your data protection needs.

If your computer seems slow and a little outdated, why not give it a new lease of life by installing an upgrade?

If your PC is not too old, upgrading it can often prolong its usability, for a lot less than the cost of a new system. Our hardware upgrade service is designed to do just that; we will offer a fully inclusive price to supply and install a hardware upgrade, or a fixed fee to install any hardware supplied by you.

Scheduled hardware upgrades can often be carried out in your home or business, or if it is more convenient to you we can collect your computer for no extra charge, and re-deliver it once the upgrade is complete.  If you need help deciding on an upgrade, our PC Healthcheck can be used with this service or we can often advise over the telephone or via email. We can often supply components cheaper than the big PC stores using our network of suppliers and trade accounts, so you may find that its not as expensive as you think to upgrade you computer system.

Common upgrades include:-

• Upgrading the graphics card to take advantage of faster graphics manipulation
• Upgrading the memory, which generally speeds up all computers - you can never have too much!
• Adding a DVD or CD writer drive. Create your own DVDs, CDs or back up data
• Increasing the size of a hard disk. If your hard disk is nearing capacity, why not increase the speed and size of the available storage. Newer drives are faster, more reliable and far larger than older models. Alternatively, add a second hard disk as a slave drive
• Upgrading the CPU* to increase the clock speed of your computer

* Note: It is not normally cost effective to try and resurrect a very old system. Often it is necessary to upgrade both the motherboard, processor and memory at the same time to take advantage of newer technologies and compatibility. We will advise you on any compatibility issues before we would undertake this service. It is often necessary to re-install the operating system, Windows, if upgrading the motherboard, due to driver issues with newer technology.

What is included in this service:-

• Collection and re-delivery of your computer, normally within 24 hours if the parts are available. 
• Installation of the new hardware. 
• Installation of any associated driver software, and configuration of the hardware. 
• Fully functional tested. 
• Valet of your internal components.

What is not included in this service:-

• Compatibility problems associated with customer supplied hardware. We will normally be able to advise you whether any hardware supplied by you is suitable prior to the upgrade 
• Operating system software or other software required for a Clean Install of the operating system. This should be supplied by you from original disks supplied with the PC or can be supplied by us at an additional cost. 
• Initial repairs. Your computer must be in a bootable and functional state for us to carry out the hardware upgrade (other than the primary hard disk if this is being replaced). If it is not, then the Diagnostic service may be used in conjunction with this service. 
• Re-installation of additional software, for example "Office" packages. Once the upgrade is complete 
• Backups of your data. We do not back-up your data, so please ensure you have saved all important files to floppy disk or CD before we start work on your PC. We offer a back-up service for an extra cost should you require it. We cannot be held responsible for files lost or deleted during work on your computer though we will endeavour wherever possible to leave your files unchanged. Occasionally it may be necessary to delete or over-write files during the process. Booking our service is acknowledgement of these risks.

Computancy Ltd can provide on-site services either in your own home or business for the competitive rate of £35 per hour, billed in 30 minute increments after the first hour.

If inside our service area the minimum fee chargeable for an on-site visit will be £35, for the first hour or part of the hour. Normally we try to provide fixed price quotations, but for some jobs or troubleshooting in your home or business, this is not possible.

We do not charge an additional call out fee whether the work is being undertaken on an hourly rate or a fixed price. Our fixed price services are based upon either us collecting your computer and returning it to our workshops for repair, upgrading or investigation or you delivering it to us. The advantage of this is that it allows us to schedule jobs and hence we can pass on the savings to you, in the form of a fixed price for the work carried out. If a fixed price job takes longer than we anticipated, then we absorb the cost, and you only pay the quoted price.

Sometimes it may be advantageous to have us carry out on-site work, for example:-

• If you require us to be at your premises rather than remove the computer to our workshops.
• If you have multiple computers you wish to have serviced, for example a small business.
• You need help configuring software packages or training in their use.
• Internet / Network / Software configuration help and advice.
• You simply want to watch and learn!  

You will be advised if you'll be paying a fixed price or an hourly rate for a job before work commences. For customers outside of our standard service area, the minimum fee payable for an on-site visit will be £45 for the first hour, and our standard rate of £35 per hour applies after this. Additional fees may apply to customers located outside of our service area, depending on distance and length of time we anticipate the journey to / from your premises will take. You will be informed of any additional fees which may apply prior to making an appointment.

The map below gives a rough idea of our standard service area.

If your business or home is within this area then there is no call out fee and our standard hourly rate of £35 applies.

If you are just outside it don't worry, we will still come to you for the same rates - it is only a representation of the area. If you are well outside the area we will still be happy to come to you, the only difference is that the first chargeable hour is £45 to cover the extra distance, and £35 per hour afterwards.

Click the map for a larger view.