We in trouble now!

It has NOT been a good week for computing around here. First, I made what I thought was the right move, to replace the old '06 version of the Web software with the '09 update. I assumed, as is my usual deficient acceptance of reality, that those who write and publish code for us lesser mortals, know what they are doing, and put forth a bug-free product. Wrong. After redoing the whole Web site base it turns out that the new program will trash the opening screen when viewed with Microsoft Internet Explorer (IE).

Since it is estimated that 70% of all callers are using IE, the program that comes with Windows, as their Web browser, this cuts them out of my caller list. Frustrating for them. Exasperating for me. But I was trying everything I could think of to remedy the mess.

Next, and this one really has me scratching my head. The high-end MacBook laptop I use to build and update the Web site turns into a door stop. Right before my eyes, as I was attempting to get the screen problem fixed, parts of the software began locking up. I rebooted after several failures but it continued to get worse. At the end the machine would boot up, get to a point, and then set there with the cursor blinking at me as if to say "Take that novice". This happened at about 5:00 AM and , with watery, red eyes, I staggered off to bed.

Calling around town I rediscovered what I already knew. Mention repair of a Mac to any of our local experts and they lapse into either laughter or pity. I had some trouble with an older Mac a few years back and went to TechRestore, a Compton, California operation and had super support and quick turn-around so that's where I went today. These folks have a contract with FedEx and send a truck to pick up the machine, furnishing the carton to ship it, get one day delivery to their factory, fix it in one day, if possible, and one day return shipping. That first repair was for a cracked screen and it was back to me five days from initial pickup. I think this fix will be for a drive problem at most, or a quick tweak of software anomalies, I hope.

That's where I'm at right now. I can't make any announcements on the Web site so I will post notes here, on this Blog, to keep everyone informed. With any luck, I'll have the Web site back up and running soon. To get direct access here:

http://powerstrace.blogspot.com