What should I do if my Styku computer is making loud noises or has physical damage?
What should I do if my Styku computer is making loud noises or has physical damage?
If your Styku laptop is making loud noises, running slowly, or has visible physical damage such as a broken hinge or bowing screen, contact Styku support right away. Depending on your warranty status, we can arrange a replacement or help you transfer your scanning operations to a new computer.
Step 1: Stop Using the Damaged Computer if It Feels Unsafe
If the computer is making grinding or loud mechanical noises, or the screen or casing appears to be physically deformed, power it down and stop using it. Continued use could cause further damage or data loss.
Step 2: Rule Out Software or Performance Issues
Before concluding the issue is hardware-related, consider whether the noise or slowness could be caused by a software or system condition:
- Make sure you are using the latest Styku software. Newer versions have better performance and auto-set power options on the computer for maximum performance.
- Check for pending Windows Updates. A pending Windows Update can affect the performance of the computer and cause the system to run slowly or behave unusually.
Important Note: Installing Windows Updates can take significant time, so make sure you plan around it. Before checking for updates, disconnect the Styku sensor tower and turntable from the computer, as some Windows Updates change hardware drivers and will not install properly if the hardware is connected. Reconnect the Styku hardware after updates are complete.
To check for Windows Updates:
- Right-click the Windows icon
- Select Settings (gear icon)
- Select Update & Security
- Press the Check for Updates button
- Download and install all updates as needed
- Reboot the computer when prompted and allow Windows to install the updates
- Reconnect the Styku hardware
If the noise or performance problem persists after ruling out software causes, proceed to the steps below.
Step 3: Contact Styku Support
Submit a support ticket as soon as possible so we can check your warranty status and find the fastest path to a resolution.
- Visit the Styku Business Portal at styku.com/portal
- Describe the issue in as much detail as possible, and submit a ticket.
- Target response time is 1 business day
Step 4: Warranty Check — What Happens Next
Once you contact support, we will look up your warranty status. Here is what that means for you:
If your system is under warranty (within 12 months of purchase):
- Styku will arrange a replacement computer for hardware issues that cannot be resolved remotely and that are not the result of accidental damage or misuse
If your system is out of warranty: Support will walk you through the available options to get you scanning again:
- Option 1 — Use your own compatible computer (no cost): If you have a Windows laptop or tablet that meets Styku's minimum hardware requirements, support can transfer your software and scan data to it at no charge. Check the hardware requirements article linked in the Business Portal's Help section.
- Option 2 — Purchase a replacement laptop from Styku ($750 + tax and shipping): Styku can supply a pre-configured laptop ready to use with your scanner.
- Option 3 — Enroll in Styku Care extended warranty ($499/year): Styku Care covers replacement hardware, shipping, and accidental damage. If you are not already enrolled, ask support whether your system is eligible.
- Option 4 — Upgrade your Styku system: If your scanner is an older model, support can connect you with the Styku sales team to explore upgrading to current-generation hardware.
What to Expect During the Transfer to a New Computer
If you move to a new computer, Styku support will guide you through the full process. Here is a general overview of what is involved:
- Your existing software license is deactivated on the old machine
- Download and re-install the Styku software on the new computer
- You may need your license key reset — contact Styku Support through the business portal at styku.com/portal to have your license reset
- Open Styku Studio and enter your account email, password, and license key to reactivate
- Your scan data syncs back down from Styku's servers — no data will be lost, as scans are stored on Styku's servers
You do not need to do this alone — support will schedule a session with you to complete the transfer.
A Note on Warranty and Subscription Coverage
Your software subscription (for example, a Growth Plan) covers data hosting and access to Styku Studio. It does not include hardware warranty coverage. Hardware coverage requires either the standard 12-month manufacturer's warranty included with your purchase, or an active Styku Care extended warranty plan. If you are unsure what coverage you have, support can check this for you when you submit your ticket.
If this resolves your issue, no further action is needed.
If the problem persists, contact support and include: your business name, a description of the noise or damage (when it started, what it sounds like, and any visible damage), your scanner model if known, and approximately when you purchased your system.
Applies to: All Styku configurations — Styku X2L, X2, X2 Pro, and S100 laptop or tablet computers
Related Resources
- My computer crashed, how do I reinstall Styku?
- Why is my Styku laptop making loud noises and running slowly?