Dead computer

[Jim McBee]

Hey, kids, I've got a MacBook Pro that's developed the Black Screen of Death (evidently, not a rare problem). Naturally, the machine is just out of warranty; it looks like getting a fix is going to be expensive and take awhile. Any thoughts on a replacement/additional machine so I can keep plugging away? Doesn't have to be a laptop, or even a Mac, but I'd have to take into consideration the cost of replacing software if I crossed into the Dark Side.

- Jim

[Katy Forrestt]

Even though I'm late to the party, thought I'd chime in. if you don't have Applecare, you still should be able to get a 1-time-only fee at the Genius bar to start the ball rolling for a fix. I second the earlier suggestion to invest in a monitor, though, and have it take over the Mac's graphics duties. Seems a lot more simple than investing in an entirely new machine. As for replacement machine, you should choose the option that lets you take advantage of most of what you already own in terms of software and supplies...which sounds like another Mac.

How did you end up resolving your issue?

[Jim McBee]

Bought a replacement computer. This was before Apple owned up to the graphics-chip problem. BTW, FWIW, the laptop wouldn't drive my external monitor.

[David M. Putney]

This recall might apply to you.

[Patti McCracken]

When this happened to me, I was able to get my apple guy to rent me a mac for a couple of weeks while things got ordered/repaired. Is this an option?

--Patti McCracken

[Jim McBee]

I appreciate all you guys lookin' out for me. Fingers crossed I can turn the doorstop back into a laptop!

[Patti McCracken]

Hi,
I thought I replied to this but don't see it here (new member, by the way).
When the same thing happened to me, my local Mac guy was able to rent me a mac for a couple of weeks while the repair was made. Any chance of that happening for you?

Cheers,
Patti McC.

[Jim McBee]

Welcome to VizEds, Patti. I see both of your comments on the second page. Maybe your browser is breaking them up differently?

No rental required here, but at least I'm hopeful about getting a signal from the paperweight, now. Without it costing $1,200 or whatever.