This month we are proud to feature Carlos Ortiz of Ben's Computers. Carlos is our network, printer and computer specialist extraordinaire.
How did you become interested in your profession?
I began working with computers while an undergraduate student at UC Santa Barbara, in about 1967.
When did you start working in your profession?
About 2004, I became the IT person at Dunn School, in Los Olivos. I oversaw two networks and about 200 computers. In 2010, I was laid off at Dunn. I went to work for “Nerds We Can Fix That” doing mobile computer work. In 2013, I began working for Document Solutions installing and servicing Xerox, Toshiba, and Okidata copiers and printers.
I bought Ben’s Computers in July 2021.
How has your profession changed over time?
Computers and hardware have become more “standardized”. Drivers for the various hardware components are available in one place, usually from Microsoft. You no longer need to scour the Internet for the correct driver.
What services do you offer?
We offer computer repairs and custom builds, printer installations, networking for home or office, reviving vintage computer systems, and consultation on new computer purchases.
Do you work with other professionals in your career?
I occasionally consult other IT professionals for help in solving a particular problem. Most of the time, I rely on the Internet to help resolve technological challenges.
What have you found most challenging in your career?
Trying to keep up with the myriad of changes in hardware, operating systems, and technology in general.
What have you found most rewarding?
Helping people resolve what to them seems like an overwhelming technological issue.
What changes would you like to see in your profession?
More standardization in the type of power supplies and batteries used among the various laptop manufacturers.
What inspires you in your work?
Being able to help people with their personal technological needs.
Who would be your ideal client?
She/he would have some knowledge of technology, rely on tech toys for their livelihood, enjoy using up-to-date tech, and have a large budget!
What sets you apart from your competitors?
We have the expertise to handle many of the challenges our customers face. If we lack the expertise to solve the problem, we will let you know before we start.
What is one of your favorite or most memorable projects?
Several come to mind. Most involve reviving old systems (Windows XP, Windows 7) and keeping them productive. Many customers want to hold onto their old system for a variety of reasons: a favorite crochet program, the bottling program for a brewery, or the cutting table for a welder/fabricator. In most cases, familiarity aside, the cost of replacing the old software with newer programs is too expensive.
About Carlos Ortiz
In addition to keeping your old system running, Carlos and his team can set up a network for your home or office, build or maintain your server, setup a maintenance program for your computers and printers, or build a computer system for your specific needs.
Contact Carlos:
Phone: 805.489.0222
Ben's Computers