Steve Gaudreault Computer Services
Professional IT solutions, on-site or remote. Your trusted expert serving individuals and businesses from Valleyfield to the West Island and everywhere in between.
MICROSOLDERING
When a computer won't turn on, stops charging, or a component burns out, most service centers will tell you the device is ready for the trash or that the entire motherboard needs to be replaced. The reality? The issue could simply be a faulty power supply or charger. Even if the problem is on the motherboard, "defective" rarely means completely dead: more often than not, it's caused by a single tiny component worth a few cents — a shorted capacitor, a corrupted BIOS, a blown MOSFET, or a failed charging chip — that stops the board from powering on while 99% of the circuit is perfectly fine.
Using my advanced diagnostic and repair tools—including high-definition microscopy, precision hot air soldering stations, and laboratory-grade power supplies—I can intervene directly at the component level (SMD components). I only replace what is defective, saving you hundreds of dollars in the process.
My Specialized Microsoldering Services:
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Charging Port Replacement (DC Jack / USB-C): If your device no longer detects the charger or the port is physically damaged, I perform clean, durable replacements.
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BIOS / UEFI Chip Replacement & Flash: I work directly on memory chips to repair corrupted firmware and restore system booting.
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Power Component Replacement (MOSFETs, Capacitors, Resistors): I pinpoint and replace the specific microscopic components responsible for short circuits and power failures.
💡 My Commitment: Repairing a component on an existing motherboard is not only more cost-effective than buying a new machine, but it is also an eco-friendly choice that reduces electronic waste.
Pricing and Policies — Microsoldering
Admission and Diagnostic Policies
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Diagnostic Fee: An initial fee of 40$ applies for microscopic analysis and circuit tracing. If the repair is successful, this fee is 100% credited toward your final invoice.
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No Fix, No Fee: If your motherboard is declared irreparable (internal layer damage, dead core chip), the repair invoice is waived. Only the basic diagnostic fee applies.
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Turnaround Times: Unlike standard repairs (48h), micro-soldering requires in-depth analysis under a microscope. Work begins as soon as the device is received and is processed as quickly as possible (averaging 2 to 7 business days, depending on component availability). You will be notified promptly if a specific part needs to be ordered.
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Viability Assessment: During my diagnostic, I personally evaluate the economic viability of the repair. If the state of your motherboard makes the investment not worthwhile compared to the actual value of your device, I will inform you immediately to save you from unnecessary expenses.
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Previous Repair Attempts: If your board has already been handled, heated, or "tinkered with" by another party, you must disclose this upfront. Repairing torn traces or replacing missing components requires significant additional time, and adjusted pricing will apply.
Fixed pricing tiers
Level 1: Ports & Connectors
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Price: $100–$120
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What this includes: Intact traces, no complex logic diagnosis (Power jacks, USB-C / HDMI ports, battery/screen connectors (FPC), SMD power buttons).
Level 2: Logic & Power Circuit
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Price: $160–$200
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This includes: Power management chips (PMIC) and charging circuits, short circuits on the main rail, replacement and flashing of corrupted BIOS/UEFI chips, power components (MOSFETs, capacitors).
Warranty and Liquid Damage
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Standard Warranty: All microsoldering repairs are covered by a 90-day limited warranty. This warranty applies strictly to the replaced component or the specific solder joint performed.
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Liquid Damage Cases: Corrosion is unpredictable. Repairs on liquid-damaged boards focus primarily on data recovery and include a restricted 30-day warranty.
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⚠️ Exclusions: Any signs of drops, impact, further liquid exposure, or tampering by a third party will immediately void the warranty.
Ready to get your device repaired?
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Step 1: Fill out the work order form. You will find the full service agreement included to accept the terms of repair. 🔗 Click here to fill out the Service Agreement
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Step 2: Schedule Drop-off Once the form is submitted, I will contact you to schedule a time to drop off your device directly at my workshop in Salaberry-de-Valleyfield. You can also ship it to me by mail; please note that shipping costs (including return shipping) are at your expense. (Once I receive the work order form, I will send you my address.)