Meet the Merchant: Kearny businessman loves 2fixcomputer(s)

Galo Guzman looked at his latest puzzle. A black laptop sat on his counter with a broken hard drive and the keyboard unattached. Even worse, the monitor had been torn from the base.

“I’m gonna fix it,” he said. “It’s fixable.”

At 2fixcomputer, Guzman does his best to patiently replace motherboards, scrub viruses and anything else to repair damaged computers. He said the more complicated the issue, the more fun they are to fix. He even works on phones and TVs.

To stay current with new technology, he buys books, visits discussion forums and checks the Internet.

“Every day, we learn,” he said.

Owner: Galo Guzman, 45, of Belleville

What kind of business is it? 2fixcomputer is both a repair shop and retail store for computer components. Not everything in the store is geared for customers suffering from damage. They also sell home security systems from an iPhone, Guzman can watch all the store's security cameras.

How did the owners get their start? Guzman said he's always been interested in technology and worked in the IT and networking fields for the last 12 years. After working out of his basement, he decided to open the Kearny Avenue retail spot with a partner.

How long has the shop been in business? 2fixcomputer has been open for a year and a half.

What's inside the business?
The business sells computer parts, used computers and other equipment. Keyboards fill neatly packed drawers and parts line cabinets. On the wall hangs a computer motherboard and CDs hang from the walls like trophies.

What are the price points?
The minimum cost for a repair is $25, while a diagnostic is $55. A full system reinstallation is $125 and virus removal is $89.

What makes the place unique? Guzman said his place is unique because he offers personalized service. He takes the time to explain the problems and is happy to help people understand the best options for their electronics.

“The patient has a right to ask anything,” said Guzman.

He said when he can he sometimes throws in free parts or technical expertise to get people up and running.

"Sometimes I don't charge because I understand," he said.

Who does the shop cater to?
Because of networking and word of mouth, people visit him from all parts of Hudson and Essex County. He said it helps that he speaks Spanish and Portuguese to attract a wider base of area customers.

Still, Guzman said it's tricky to run a business during a recession. One thing he's noticed is people are more likely to visit him to fix or trade in an old computer than buy a new one.

What are the owners' plans for the business?
Guzman sees service as key at 2fixcomputer, helping the business expand.

What does the owner like best about the business?
Guzman said he likes that each day brings a new computer challenge to solve.