Question 1

How does your diagnostic service work?

Accepted Answer

Simply bring your device to us or schedule a free pick-up. Our technicians will thoroughly examine your device to identify all issues. We'll provide you with a detailed report and quote before any work begins. If you approve the repair, diagnostics are free. If you choose not to proceed, there's a $49 diagnostic fee.

Question 2

What areas do you service for free pick-up and drop-off?

Accepted Answer

We offer free pick-up and drop-off services throughout Windsor, Tecumseh, LaSalle, Amherstburg, Essex, and surrounding areas in Essex County. For locations outside these areas, please contact us to discuss arrangements.

Question 3

How long do repairs typically take?

Accepted Answer

Most repairs are completed within 24-48 hours. Simple software issues can often be resolved same-day. Complex hardware repairs or data recovery may take 2-3 days. We offer emergency same-day service for urgent situations (additional fee applies).

Question 4

What if my data can't be recovered?

Accepted Answer

We operate on a "no data, no charge" policy for data recovery services. If we cannot recover your data, you pay nothing for the attempt. We'll always provide an honest assessment of recovery chances before beginning work.

Question 5

Do you work on both PCs and Macs?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we service all major computer brands and operating systems including Windows PCs, Macs, and Linux systems. Our technicians are experienced with various hardware and software configurations.

Question 6

Do you repair smartphones and tablets?

Accepted Answer

Yes! We repair most cellphones and tablets including screen replacements, battery swaps, charging port repairs, camera/speaker fixes, and water damage assessment. Repair availability and pricing vary by device model - contact us with your specific device for a quote.

Question 7

What does your 30-day warranty cover?

Accepted Answer

Our 30-day warranty covers our labor and workmanship - if the same problem comes back on its own within 30 days, we'll fix it at no charge. Any new parts installed also come with the manufacturer's warranty (typically 1-3 years depending on the part). For example: if we replace your hard drive and the drive itself fails, the manufacturer covers the replacement part - we'll handle the warranty claim and labor for you. Our warranty doesn't cover: new unrelated issues, physical damage, liquid damage, viruses/malware downloaded after service, or problems caused by software you installed after repair. If we remove a virus and you (or someone using your computer) re-downloads it or similar malware, that's a new service call.

Question 8

Can you help set up my new computer or transfer data?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! We offer complete setup services for new computers, including software installation, data transfer from your old device, and personalized training on how to use your new system effectively.

Question 9

Do you offer managed IT for businesses?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Specter Systems offers fully managed IT and 24/7 security monitoring for Windsor-Essex businesses with roughly 10 to 50 staff: monitoring and patching on every PC, Microsoft 365 administration, backup, on-site support in business hours, and a security operations centre watching every machine around the clock. Smaller businesses that just need things fixed can still book hourly support. See the Managed IT page for what each plan includes.

Question 10

What does managed IT cost?

Accepted Answer

Plans are quoted per user, per month, after a free assessment. The number depends on how many people you have and what you run (a clinic with a server is a different job than a trades office with eight laptops), so there is no "starting at" price on the website. The assessment is a free 30-minute walkthrough of your setup, and you get a written proposal within a week.

Question 11

What is included in a managed IT plan, and what is extra?

Accepted Answer

Included: troubleshooting and fixes (remote or on-site), adding and removing users, updates and patching, monitoring and alerts, backup checks, and a monthly report. Quoted separately: hardware, software licences including Microsoft 365, big projects like server replacements or office moves, and work outside support hours. The Managed IT page lists it in full so there are no surprise invoices.

Question 12

Do I need a server to be on a managed IT plan?

Accepted Answer

No. Many businesses run entirely on Microsoft 365 with no server, and the Essentials plan is built for that. If you do have a server, the Managed and Managed + Security plans add server management and local-plus-cloud backup so the office keeps working if it fails.

Question 13

How does switching from our current IT provider work?

Accepted Answer

With no gap in coverage. After the assessment and proposal, onboarding is scheduled around your current provider: the monitoring and security tools go on every machine, Microsoft 365 and backups get checked and configured, and staff get the support number and portal. Nothing is switched off until the replacement is running.

Question 14

What payment methods do you accept?

Accepted Answer

We accept cash, debit, all major credit cards, and e-transfer. Payment is due upon completion of service. For businesses, we can arrange NET 30 payment terms with approved credit.

Question 15

Will you just wipe and reformat my computer like other shops?

Accepted Answer

No. We don't take the easy way out. We identify the root cause of your problem first, then determine the best solution. Many shops default to "wipe and reinstall" because it's quick - but that destroys your data and doesn't fix underlying hardware issues. We'll only recommend a reformat if it's truly necessary, and we'll explain why.

Question 16

How do I know if I should repair or replace my computer?

Accepted Answer

Our diagnostic service includes an honest recommendation. We consider factors like age, repair cost vs. replacement cost, and your specific needs. If replacement makes more sense, we can help you choose and set up a new system.

Frequently Asked Questions