Frequently Asked Questions
Common Questions About PC and Laptop Repair in Portland
Got a question about your PC, laptop, or our service? Here are the answers we hear most often. If you don't see what you're looking for, give us a call at (503) 610-5996 or email help@rocketsquad.com — we're happy to help.
About Rocket Squad
Who is Rocket Squad?
Rocket Squad is a locally-owned PC and laptop repair shop in Portland, OR. We're part of the same family as MacForce, Portland's only independent Apple Authorized Service Provider since 1991. While MacForce focuses on Apple products, Rocket Squad brings the same passion and expertise to the Windows PC world.
What's the relationship between Rocket Squad, MacForce, and Launch Technologies?
We're a family of locally-owned tech companies all operating from the same location on NE Broadway in Portland. MacForce handles Apple products. Launch Technologies serves business IT clients across both Apple and Windows platforms. Rocket Squad focuses on PC and laptop repair for home users. Together, we cover every platform and every need — backed by over 30 years of Portland tech experience.
Where are you located?
We're at 628 NE Broadway, Suite #140, Portland, OR 97232 — in inner Northeast Portland. Walk-ins are welcome Monday through Friday, 9am to 5pm.
Repair Services
Do you repair all Windows PC brands?
Yes. We offer non-warranty repairs for all major brands including Dell, HP, Lenovo, ASUS, Acer, Microsoft, Toshiba, Samsung, MSI, Razer, and Gateway — both laptops and desktops. Whether you have an office workstation, a student laptop, or a gaming rig, our technicians have the experience to handle it.
Do you do warranty repairs?
We provide non-warranty repairs only. For manufacturer warranty service, you'll need to contact the manufacturer directly. That said, we handle a wide range of repairs that are often faster and more affordable than going through the manufacturer's process — and we're right here in Portland.
How much does PC repair cost?
Repair costs vary depending on the issue. We provide honest, upfront diagnostics so you know exactly what's needed and what it will cost before any work begins. We never start work without your approval, and we'll never surprise you with hidden fees.
How long does a typical repair take?
Most repairs are completed in-house within 1–3 business days. Simple services like virus removal and tune-ups can often be done same-day. We'll give you a time estimate when you drop off your device so you know what to expect.
Can you recover data from a crashed hard drive?
In many cases, yes. We offer data recovery services for hard drives, SSDs, and other storage devices. The sooner you bring it in after a failure, the better the chances of a successful recovery. We'll assess the situation and let you know what's possible — and what it will cost — before any work begins.
What is a Rocket Tune?
Rocket Tune is our signature performance optimization service. It includes diagnostics, malware and bloatware removal, system cleanup, browser optimization, and startup tuning. It's designed to make your computer feel like new again — and many customers schedule one annually as preventive maintenance.
Visiting Our Shop
Do I need an appointment?
Nope! Walk-ins are welcome Monday through Friday, 9am to 5pm. You're also welcome to call (503) 610-5996 to schedule a specific day and time if you prefer.
What should I do before bringing my computer in?
A few things help us help you faster:
Back up your data if possible
Have your login password ready (we need to access your system to test repairs)
Bring your power adapter or charger
Sign out of sensitive accounts like banking
Note down any specific symptoms or error messages
If you're not sure how to back up your data or you can't get the computer to boot, don't worry — bring it in anyway and we'll work with you on next steps.
What happens during a diagnostic?
When you bring your computer in, we'll talk through what's going on, run a diagnostic to identify the issue, and then call or email you with our findings, the recommended fix, and the cost. We don't start any repair work without your approval.
Can you set up a new computer for me?
Absolutely. We'll transfer your files and settings from your old PC, set up your email, install your software, configure your printer, and make sure everything is ready to go — either at our shop or in your home.
Rocket Lab Sessions
What is Rocket Lab?
Rocket Lab is our in-shop tech help service — perfect for the kinds of questions and quick fixes that don't need a full repair or in-home visit. Get one-on-one help from an expert in 30 minutes or less. Software settings, account setup, syncing issues, learning a new feature, configuring a device — bring it in and we'll work through it together.
Rocket Lab sessions start at just $49 and are offered by both Rocket Squad (for PC and Windows users) and our sister company MacForce (for Apple users).
How much does a Rocket Lab session cost?
Rocket Lab sessions are $49 for the first 30 minutes. If you need more time, additional 15-minute blocks are $30 each. Sessions are designed to wrap up in 30 minutes or less, but more time is available at the technician's discretion if you need it.
What kinds of things can Rocket Lab help with?
Rocket Lab is great for:
Quick questions and how-to guidance
Software settings and preferences
Account setup and sign-in issues
Device syncing and connectivity
New feature walkthroughs
Basic troubleshooting
Printer, peripheral, and accessory setup
For hardware repairs, you'll want our standard repair service. For larger setups or network projects, in-home support is usually the better fit.
How do I book a Rocket Lab session?
Give us a call at (503) 610-5996 to book a session. We can usually schedule you for the same week, and often the same day if a technician is available.
Can I just walk in for a Rocket Lab session?
Walk-ins are welcome when a technician is available, but we strongly recommend calling ahead. Rocket Lab sessions are one-on-one, so availability depends on technician schedules that day. A quick phone call ensures you won't make the trip and have to wait — or worse, come back another time.
What's the difference between Rocket Lab and in-home support?
Rocket Lab is our in-shop, one-on-one help service designed for quick questions and software guidance — bring your device in, get focused expert time, and head out in 30 minutes. It's the most affordable way to get hands-on help.
In-home support is for larger projects — new computer setup, network configuration, smart home integration, training that involves your full environment, or anything that needs to happen at your home or office.
Rocket Lab complements in-home support — not a replacement. If you're not sure which one fits your situation, give us a call and we'll point you in the right direction.
In-Home and Remote Support
Do you offer in-home PC support?
Yes! Rocket Squad technicians make house calls throughout the Greater Portland area with no travel fees. We can help with setup, troubleshooting, virus removal, network issues, training, smart home setup, and more — right in your home.
What areas do you serve for in-home support?
We serve the entire Greater Portland metro with no travel fees, including Portland, Beaverton, Hillsboro, Lake Oswego, Tigard, Tualatin, West Linn, Oregon City, Milwaukie, Gresham, Happy Valley, Vancouver WA, and surrounding areas.
Do you offer remote support?
Yes. For many software issues, virus removal, and troubleshooting tasks, we can help you remotely without needing to come to your home. Give us a call and we'll let you know if remote support is the right fit for your issue.
Still Have Questions?
We're here to help. Give us a call at (503) 610-5996, email us at help@rocketsquad.com, or stop by our shop at 628 NE Broadway in Portland.