:chuckles: I know what you mean. I like to check on those users from time to time.

 

I get the same shit. But it's not just computers, it's car and home stereos, satellite systems, VCRs, vending machines...just about anything with electricity. I've been to a couple of peoples' houses just to set the code on their universal remote to control the TV volume. I'm too nice to charge, though.
What's worse is when the ask you what the problem is, and you have to try to explain it to them, then they start talking like they know something, but they're completely clueless.

 

HEY CAC i never called you to come over and program the damn remote i just asked if you knew how hfawk:

 

and i think i paid you when you built my pc uhhh think

 

It's the same thing with me. For a week my father inlaw was calling me everyday when he got a new computer. He's one that doesn't even know how to put a tape in a VCR let alone put together his computer.

So I started charging him by the hour including travelling time (30 minutes one way). THat week he racked up $100.

Then the next week he unplugged everything to move it onto a new desk and called to ask why his computer wasn't booting up right. So I show up and he forced plugs into sockets that were the wrong things and bent all the pins on the keyboard, mouse, monitor and printer. I was pretty furious.

My wife's brother and sisters also call me up for computer problems, home stereo setups, car related problems. I even got asked to change my father inlaw's oil and change out the blade on his lawn mower because all the guys in the family are duds.

 

Don't you hate that! Then they blame you for it not working when really they are the one doing it wrong.

 

Or when your in the office everyone asks you about personal PC problems when your in a rush to set up a video conference for the execs...

 

h: Been there. I've even visited my VP's house 3 times to work out VPN problems and assist with his home network.

 

I got people i use to work with blowing my phone up with computer questions...i tell them straight from the door...if you call me after 4pm...all calls are charged and i will be billin u for my time...i even charge people 35cent a mile round trip for my trip there...20 bucks to get me in the door and 50 bucks an hour..i get a few people who are willing to pay...but it also keeps away alot of the bs people just with stupid issues lookin for a free ride..

 

that all depends on the family member