Is it worth going to Geek Squad?

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xCollette

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Apr 27, 2015
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I have just upgraded from an NVidia GTX 520 to the GTX 970 SC ACX 2.0, I have the graphics card, but I'm not sure whether I should install it myself (no experience) or have Geek Squad install it for me. I have heard speculations of price rip-off's from them and I'm not sure what to do?
 
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My guess is that they might charge you anywhere from $50-$100 to install; They do have a pricelist somewhere on their page but they may stretch it into install hardware $50 and install software $50, when in reality, installing the hardware should include installing the required 'software' (meaning drivers and acompaning software) for that device, and whatever is on the enclosed DVD. I know that part of the Geek Squad's job description involves sales and selling of upgrades and etc. I don't like that business model; I want to do an honest job and not be required to pad sales and services to keep my job, morally and ethically for myself, and my customers. I.E. I am not out to rip off anyone; time worked and services performed is my goal; I'm not out to get someone to buy another computer because it will cost them $200 to fix, so why not use that money to buy a new computer? Yes, that is true in some cases; generally expect to pay about $100 to get your computer fixed for each issue, but don't come in with 3 issues that are not related, just like a car. Then I will tell you that it is not worth it for you to fix it. and I'd probably help you find a good computer for what you want to spend, instead of paying me to fix your computer. Maybe I should get something out of that, like your computer, but that also sounds deceitful, but maybe fair, depending on the computer.
 
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System Specifications

Most notably, the 350 watt peak power supply.

Unfortunately, I'd have to recommend going to The Geek Squad as you should also have your power supply replaced. While it's not *that* hard to do, replacing the power supply can be a bit daunting and if the power cables are not easily accessible, you may need to remove other components to get to them.

When you're in Best Buy, look for a new power supply from Antec, Corsair, or EVGA in the 500 watt to 750 watt range. DO NOT substitute any other brand.

-Wolf sends
 
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Take your PC with side off already to your local computer shop and ask them if they can put it in for you.
It's literally a 2 min job if you don't need to replace the power supply. With a power supply change its a 10 min job.
If you are upgrading the power supply and purchase it from their store they will more than likely install the GPU for free.

Remove 1 screw holding card in, Remove Card ensuring to release any clip holding the back end of the card into the Mobo, Install new card in same slot, replace screw. Connect appropriate power connectors (6 pin or 8 pin) in your case 2 6 pin connectors. 2 mins including 1 min to find a screw driver.

350 Watt power supply is a bit marginal for a GTX970. If was a high quality Sea Sonic X series or Antec True Power you could probably get away with it.
GTX970 peak power is 145 watts, System power is normally around 100 Watts. The minimum recommended supply for that GPU is 500 Watts.
 
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The time spent changing a power supply unit can vary with the amount of cabling and how it is actually traversing the innards of the case and how neat it currently is, and how neat you want the new PSU's cables to look.
Usually there are only about two screws to hold it in place.
 
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Mine is currently held in by 2 screws. I 'borrowed' a couple at some stage and never returned them.

My SSD is also loose inside my case after I took it out once and couldn't be bothered with the hard drive cage again.
 
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