CompUSA Launches 24/7 Tech Support For Vista

CompUSA on Wednesday launched a 24/7 tech-support service that can help consumers upgrade to Microsoft's upcoming Windows Vista.

TechProLive, which is also targeted at small businesses, offers around-the-clock phone and Web-based technical support, the consumer electronics retailer said. In anticipation of problems people may encounter in upgrading to Vista or Microsoft Office 2007, CompUSA is offering a promotion of unlimited support for 30 days for $30. The promotion runs from Jan. 30 through March 31.

To complement the phone service, TechProLive offers remote login capabilities that enable technicians to gain access to customers' computers for service and repair. The service also includes instant messaging between technicians and customers, and e-mail.

In general, technicians are experienced in installation, setup and configuration, upgrading, and troubleshooting most popular software programs. Consumers typically choose to pay $30 per incident, or buy service packages that start at $50 for three months of unlimited support.

Earlier this week, CompUSA unveiled a program that guarantees customers are satisfied with their Windows Vista update, or the retailer would refund the purchase price and reinstall the PC's original operating system.

Microsoft is scheduled to release Vista to consumers Jan. 30. The operating system has been available to businesses since November.