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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.

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Concise Computer Consulting, Neighbor
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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

    www.concisepc.com

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