Doing things his way

You can expect Vishal Tripathi, Gartner’s principal research analyst, to write a step-by-step guide on how to install an LCD TV. But he warns that setting up gadgets without basic knowledge can run down the device. He speaks from experience, since the last time he went about repairing his BlackBerry, Tripathi damaged its hardware.

Can you tell us, how did you set-up your most recent gadget?
It was my BlackBerry smartphone and the most basic stuff that I needed to do was to transfer data from my laptop. I had already backed up the data from my previous mobile to my new BlackBerry. This was followed by personalising the phone’s features and updating the security software. Next step was to add names to voice and speed dials — functions that I use often. Lastly, I installed Yahoo, MSN and Google messengers on the new smartphone.

Have you ever faced any problem while fiddling with your gadgets?
It happened recently when I was playing a game called Brick Breaker on my BlackBerry. All of a sudden, the phone’s trackball stopped working and I opened the device and tried to fix it. I ended up breaking one of the four ICs on which the trackball works. I realised much later that my fiddling had cost me dearly.

Do you usually set-up gadgets yourself?
Yes, that is always preferable. It helps in faster troubleshooting when things go wrong. Installing doesn’t mean that I wall mount the LCD TV or speakers myself. But I do prefer to upgrade and install new games and software that would enhance the performance of my devices myself.

Do you feel the need to refer to manuals?
I use them as handy guides since one can’t be an expert on every device. When it comes to handheld devices, smartphones or home appliances like LCD TV, air-conditioners, you do need to occasionally refer to the good old manuals.

What is your advice to those who want to set-up their gadgets themselves?
Half intelligence and over- confidence can be a deadly combination. It is always good to do things your way, but don’t attempt it unless you are sure of what you are doing and confident of resetting, if need be. It’s good to be inquisitive but do make sure that you have a product manual or device details handy.