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Health & Fitness

Advice for Buying a MacBook from CraigsList

Craigslist is a viable option in buying a used Mac- as long as you check out some core components.

From time to time, we are asked to advise clients that are interested in purchasing used laptops from sellers on Craig's List. Below is a list of recommendations that we have formulated over the years, based upon our overall IT experience:

Steps to perform before buying that used laptop:

  • Run it unplugged to see how the battery holds up
  • Test Wifi / Bluetooth functionality
  • Bring USB "Thumb" Drive to test USB ports
  • Bring a Dual Layer DVD and also a DVD movie to test optical drive
  • Check the physical status of the battery by removing it and looking for visual signs of bloating
  • Check for dead pixels on the display
  • Check hard drive health
  • Check the repair history using the serial number
  • Make sure the serial number on the case matches the one in the system (Apple Icon > "About this Mac"> More Info)
  • Test out every single key on the keyboard
  • Test the track pad

  • Since some of these tests require internet, maybe it's best to meet at a public venue with Wifi, both for reasons of safety, as well as the necessity of the internet access!

    Some food for thought -- we hope you find this information useful.

     

    Find out what's happening in Dearbornfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

    Jeffrey Atto, C.O.O.  Concise Computer Consulting

    2350 Franklin Road Suite #120

    Find out what's happening in Dearbornfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

    Bloomfield Hills, MI 48302

    248-745-8255

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