Mr. Mac/K, Consultant

Specializing in the Macintosh Computer


Help With Macintosh Hardware and Software

Background and Experience

Services

Scheduling and Pricing

Database Development in FileMaker

Background and Experience

Services

 

Hardware/Software

Background/Experience
I started my computing experience with the
Apple II computers in 1978. When the Macintosh came along, I never dreamed I would quickly give up my Apple II...but I did. I purchased the very first Macintosh (128k) in 1984 and have been involved with it daily ever since. When I retired from my career as an Engineer at Collins/Rockwell in 1989, I began helping friends with their Macs. Before I knew it, I was "in business."

The name of my business comes from an obscure TV ad from Apple Inc. that I've been trying to find... It showed a guy with his one Mac and graphic skills who made a big company think he had a room full of Macs and employees. He decided that he should jazz up his company logo accordingly, so he went to the name of his business and inserted a single "/ "! Wish I could find that TV ad in Quicktime to put on this page!

Frankly, as a retiree, I don't have to put in 60 hours/week, so I can afford to support only the Mac (The fact is, PC's require a lot more support/consultants that the Mac, so that's were most consultants work.) I had to use the PC on the job and do have to "do Windows" from time to time, but I'm certainly glad I can stay with what I love....the Macintosh!

Services

  • Troubleshooting and tuneups for all Mac's and attached peripherals (hardware).
  • Installations, upgrades, and troubleshooting for all Mac Operating Systems (software)
  • Information, advice, training for all things Mac&emdash;making you a better Mac'er!
  • Database development in FileMaker Pro (sub-specialty, Mac & PC, see below)

I not only specialize in the Mac, I specialize in supporting individual Mac users and small businesses using the Mac. My customers are my friends, and all of them have come to me by referral. (References are available.) You call me with your problems and I'll tell you if I can help---that's right, I can't handle every job, and I'll tell you so. If I come to help and don't do the job, you don't pay.

Scheduling and Pricing
I try not to take on work that I simply can't get to in a reasonable time. I usually make up my work schedule on Monday's and if you've called the week before you'll be on my list! I'll call and work out a time that works for you.

I charge from $40 -$60/hour, mostly depending on how far I have to drive. Of course, I only charge for the time I'm at your premises. I live near Coit/Campbell in Northwest Richardson, Texas.


Filemaker Database Development

Background/Experience
FileMaker is a program to create computer databases. FileMaker grew up on the Mac, but one of its most distinguishing features is that it works on both Mac's and PC's. FileMaker files can be moved between platforms without any conversion! FileMaker is noted for its easy of us, and fits perfectly into service for individuals and small work groups. I've grown up with FileMaker on the Mac and became proficient enough to begin to teach it (via the FM SIG of the Apple Corps of Dallas) and to do work for others. I'm a member of the FileMaker Solutions Alliance, which is a group of devoted FM users supported by FileMaker Inc. http://www.FileMaker.com; I get several referrals each year from the FSA website.

Services
Some database projects are too large for me to undertake, but if you have a moderate requirement and want a close relationship with your developer, give me a call! I'm always glad to invest an hour in discussing a project with you, if you are serious about hiring me.

I also enjoy teaching FileMaker, and strongly encourage my customers to learn it for themselves. So, if you are serious about learning FM but need a little push up the learning curve, I would really enjoy helping you from time to time.