- Workbench basics: All disassembly and part swaps in Fix PCs happen only at the workbench — PCs on random counters can't be worked on.
- Core loop: Unscrew the side panel, remove the faulty part, install the replacement, reconnect cables, close up, and power on.
- Benchmarks verify fixes: A passing benchmark score confirms the repair; a failure means a part or cable is still loose.
- Controls: Left-click to interact and hold to twist screws; E places items on the bench; Tab opens your parts inventory.
- Pro tip: Keep your most-used parts stocked near the bench to raise your repairs-per-hour rate.
Workbench Basics: What It Does and Why It Matters
The workbench is the heart of every repair shop in Fix PCs. When a customer brings in a broken computer, you diagnose the fault, carry the PC to your bench, and do all hands-on work there — opening the case, unscrewing components, swapping in replacements, and reconnecting cables. You cannot repair a PC sitting on a random counter or shelf, so learning efficient bench workflow directly translates into more completed orders and more Cash per hour.
Before you start, make sure you understand the three interaction systems at the bench:
Build View
- Click the PC on the bench to open the build view
- Inspect all installed components
- Identify what's broken and what to replace
Screws
- Hold left-click on each screw
- Follow the on-screen motion to twist it out
- Track screws for reassembly
Cables
- Click the connector and pull in the indicated direction
- PSU and front-panel cables must be fully reseated
- Loose cables cause failed power-on
Every repair ticket lists the customer's requirements. Installing the wrong part — or the wrong tier of part — means redoing the job, wasting both parts and time.
Step-by-Step: How to Use the Workbench
Follow this sequence for every repair to minimize wasted motion and failed benchmarks.
Carry the PC to the bench
Pick up the customer's PC from the counter or shelf and place it on your workbench. Press E to set it down. The build view only becomes available once the PC is on the bench.
Open the build view and inspect
Click the PC to open the build view. Compare the installed components against the diagnostic result and the ticket requirements to confirm which part needs to come out.
Remove the side panel
Use your screwdriver on the side panel screws — hold left-click on each screw and follow the twist motion. Set the panel aside; you'll reattach it at the end.
Unplug cables and unscrew the faulty part
Detach any power or data cables connected to the broken component, then unscrew it from its slot. If a part won't come out, double-check for remaining screws or a still-attached cable.
Install the replacement
Open your inventory with Tab, grab the correct replacement component, and screw it firmly into place. Reconnect every power and data cable you detached.
Close up and power on
Reattach the side panel, plug the PC into power, and flip the PSU switch if it has one. Power the machine on — a dead PC usually means the PSU cable to the motherboard isn't seated.
Run the benchmark and deliver
Run the benchmark test to verify the repair. A passing score confirms the fix. Return the PC to the customer to collect your Cash payment.
A failed benchmark almost always means something is still loose. Re-open the case and check that every screw is fully twisted in, every cable is clicked into its connector, and the installed part matches the ticket's required tier.
Common Workbench Problems and Fixes
Most new-player sticking points at the bench follow predictable patterns. Use this table to troubleshoot fast instead of trial-and-error.
| Problem | Likely Cause | Fix |
|---|---|---|
| Part won't come out | Hidden screws or attached cable | Inspect for remaining screws, unplug connected cables first |
| PC won't power on | PSU not connected or switch off | Confirm PSU-to-motherboard cable is seated, flip PSU switch |
| Benchmark fails | Loose screw, unseated cable, wrong part tier | Reopen case, verify every connection and part tier |
| Ticket won't complete | Installed part doesn't match requirements | Compare build view against the ticket; swap in the correct tier |
| No cash for parts | Early-game shortage | Take small diagnostic jobs first, or sell spare removed parts |
Some jobs require reusing the original screws when reseating parts. Don't rush the unscrew step — losing track of screws slows down reassembly more than any other part of the job.
Workbench Efficiency: Raise Your Repairs Per Hour
Speed is money in Fix PCs. Once you're comfortable with the basic flow, these optimizations turn the bench from a bottleneck into a profit engine.
Upgrade Tools Early
- Better screwdrivers and diagnostics
- Cuts minutes off every single order
- One of the best early investments
Add a Second Bench
- Work on two PCs at once
- Batch similar orders together
- Massive hourly income boost
Stock Smart
- Keep GPUs, RAM, PSUs in stock
- Store parts near the bench
- Avoid mid-order restock runs
Priority order for your early Cash:
| Priority | Upgrade | Why It Pays Off |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Tool upgrades | Speeds up screwing, unplugging, and diagnosing on every order |
| 2 | Second workbench | Doubles your simultaneous repair capacity |
| 3 | Shelving expansion | More parts storage means fewer restock interruptions |
| 4 | Premium part stock | Higher-tier parts unlock bigger-ticket orders and payouts |
Grouping orders with the same fault type — several RAM swaps in a row, for example — keeps you in a rhythm and eliminates constant tool switching.
Workbench Mastery Checklist
Before you call yourself a bench veteran, make sure you've locked in these fundamentals.
Workbench Mastery Goals:
- Complete a full repair without a failed benchmark
- Memorize the screw-and-cable removal order for common jobs
- Keep a stocked inventory of GPUs, RAM, and PSUs near the bench
- Upgrade your screwdriver and diagnostic tools
- Save toward a second workbench
Workbench FAQ
Q: Why can't I open the build view on a PC?
The build view only works on a PC placed on your workbench. Carry the customer's PC from the counter or shelf, press E to set it down on the bench, then click it to open the build view.
Q: How do I remove screws at the workbench in Fix PCs?
Hold left-click on each screw and follow the on-screen twist motion to unscrew it. The same motion in reverse is used to seat screws during reassembly — parts won't register as installed until their screws are fully in.
Q: The PC won't power on after my repair. What's wrong?
Check that the PSU is properly connected to the motherboard and that the PSU's power switch is flipped on. Also verify every cable you unplugged during disassembly has been reconnected before closing the case.
Q: How does the workbench connect to benchmark tests?
After finishing a repair at the workbench, you reattach the side panel, plug the PC in, power it on, and run the benchmark. A passing score verifies the fix; a failure points to a loose screw, unseated cable, or an incorrect part tier that you need to correct back at the bench.