Cute cat, right? Haha! By the way, if you prefer reading online, just click here for the digital version of the article on The Star website. A Big Thank You to The Star for Featuring YP Mac Technology!
Angelin Yeoh from The Star asked some great questions, showing professionalism from start to finish. We at YP Mac Technology really appreciate her patience and professionalism throughout the interview.
Below are the questions she asked and our answers. We hope this helps pet owners keep their devices safe while living in harmony with their furry family!
Hello Kevin, tell us about yourself.
I am Kevin from YP Mac Technology. My team and I have been using and repairing Apple products for over 16 years. You could call us a third party repair service. We handle all kinds of MacBooks, iMacs, iPhones, and iPads, including models as old as 2010. Unlike official Apple services, which only cover devices from the current year to four years back, we specialise in supporting older models too.
How would you describe your role as a computer specialist at YP Mac?
We exclusively service and repair Apple devices, and as users ourselves, we fully understand the challenges other users face. We offer specialised repair services, such as fixing the logic board (motherboard) when issues like blown chipsets or short circuits occur. The official Apple channels usually only offer replacement services, which can be quite costly. We often explain it to our clients like this: If your car has engine trouble and won’t start, would you replace the entire engine immediately or try to repair it first?
What are some of the most common problems users here face with their devices?
The most common issues we deal with are devices that won’t power on and water damage. We specialise in these repairs. Often, clients come to us after visiting the official service centre, where they’re told the device is beyond repair and quoted thousands ringgit for logic board replacements and other parts. We, however, offer a thorough check to diagnose the specific issue and provide a quote for repairing only the affected part. If something is working, there’s no need to repair or replace it. This approach saves our clients money, reduces waste, and is better for the environment.
What can you tell us about the way pets can change the way people handle their devices?
Pet owners often become more careful with their devices. They take extra precautions to protect their gadgets from accidental damage caused by curious or playful pets. This includes using protective cases, keeping devices out of reach, and being mindful of where they place their items. Additionally, we know some pet owners set a timer for 30 minute intervals, alternating between using their Apple devices and spending quality time playing with their pets.
Is it common to hear customers say they have to start placing their laptops on high places or hide cables to prevent it from getting chewed?
Yes! When not in use, place your Apple devices on a higher shelf or in a locked drawer. This helps reduce the risk of your pets knocking them over or damaging them.
Smart dogs like Golden Retrievers can open drawers, so make sure they are locked. They might try to destroy your devices as they assume the gadgets are taking attention away from their owner.
What are your top tips for pet-proofing gadgets or how should people, who may not be particularly tech-savvy, protect their devices when they have pets?
1.Use Cable Protectors: Pets love to chew on exposed cables and charging cables. Invest in cable protectors or wrap your cords with spiral cable wraps to stop your pets from gnawing on them. These are easy to find in local hardware stores like Mr DIY.
2.Keep Devices Away from Water: Pets can easily spill water or knock over drinks. Always keep your MacBook, iPhone, or iPad away from pet bowls and places where spills might happen.
3.Use Wireless Accessories: To avoid pets getting tangled with wires, think about switching to wireless keyboards, mouse, or chargers.
There is a user on Twitter who shared that her cat has peed on her laptop. So she asked for help among tech experts. What would your advice be to her?
Immediately turn off the device and disconnect everything. Do not attempt to charge it or turn it back on. Unless you can open the casing and inspect the interior, there is no way to determine the extent of the internal damage or clean any spills using household products. Technicians like us typically use ultrasonic cleaning methods for water damage effectively. Some people might think that if the device can still power on, it’s fine, but that’s not the case. Corrosion can set in later, potentially leading to short circuits in the hardware components. Therefore, we strongly advise having the device checked and cleaned by experienced and knowledgeable technicians.
Some told her, jokingly I hope, to replace her cat. Do you agree?
I disagree. Even though I am not a pet owner, I understand that for many people, pets are like family. Most pet owners refer to themselves as “mummy” or “daddy” to their pets. While some might joke that it’s just a pet and not take it seriously, for these owners, their pets are family! We’ve spoken to several pet owners who experienced incidents where their pets damaged their Apple devices. When asked if they considered getting rid of their pets after these incidents, they often sighed and expressed their distress, but they still chose to keep their pets. For them, giving up their pets is simply not an option.
How would you advocate for the importance of pet owners to have basic knowledge of tech product care, particularly in preventing and addressing accidental damage caused by pets, such as spills or cable chewing?
We recommend being extra mindful of your pets, just as you would with a baby or toddler at home. If you have recently bought an Apple device, consider purchasing the extended warranty program called Apple Care+. Just two weeks before the opening of the first official Apple Store at TRX KL, Apple launched Apple Care+ in Malaysia, which covers accidental or physical damage to your new Apple devices. Previously, only the standard Apple Care was available here, which did not include coverage for accidental damage. This new program offers a two year extension to your standard one year warranty, giving you a total of three years of coverage directly from Apple. Keep in mind that Apple Care+ must be purchased within 60 days of activating your new Apple devices.
We want to thank The Star once again for featuring YP Mac and publishing the interview. Your support means a lot!
Any Question(s)
Contact us now! For the fastest reply, WhatsApp us anytime, and we promise to respond quickly, no matter the day or time. For any inquiries, visit us at ypmac.com.my
We offer hassle-free Mac repairs. Our tagline says it all: “Simplify Mac repairs with us.” Our commitment focuses on providing convenient solutions for all your Mac-related needs.
Radio interview with a local Chinese radio station to learn more about us and what we do!
YP Mac Office Location
Our office is situated at 1Powerhouse in Bandar Utama, Petaling Jaya. If you plan to visit, simply click here for easy directions to our office. Our office is conveniently accessible by public transport (MRT). Just disembark at Bandar Utama station, take Exit A, follow the signboard instructions and head towards Avante Hotel and 1Powerhouse.
Alternatively, if you’re within the Kuala Lumpur or Selangor area, take advantage of our free pick-up and drop-off service.
Our present operating hours are from 9am to 7pm on Mondays to Fridays. From 9am to 2pm on Saturdays and by appointment on Sundays and Public Holidays.
