FAQ
Frequently asked questions
Answers to common questions, grouped by service. Your question is not listed? Just send me an email.
General
Who do you work for?
For private clients as well as freelancers, small and medium-sized businesses and organisations.
How do I get in touch?
Email is easiest. Describe your request in your own words; I will reply with an initial assessment and, if appropriate, suggest an appointment.
What does an enquiry cost?
An enquiry is non-binding. Costs only arise once we agree on an assignment.
Do you charge VAT?
No. As a small business under section 19 of the German VAT Act (Kleinunternehmerregelung), I do not charge VAT.
Do you guarantee response times?
No, I currently do not offer guaranteed response times. I answer enquiries as quickly as possible and tell you honestly when I have time for your request.
Software development
Is custom software worth it for a small business?
Often, yes – when a task regularly eats up time, data is maintained twice or standard software only fits with workarounds. Sometimes an existing product is cheaper, though. I check that honestly up front.
Can you extend software that someone else wrote?
Yes, as long as source code and access are available. It starts with an assessment so that changes do not destabilise what already works.
Who owns the source code in the end?
This is agreed in writing before the project starts. Usually you receive the usage rights and the source code, so you are not dependent on me.
Can I maintain my website myself?
If you want to, yes – with a content management system you change texts and images yourself. If content rarely changes, a static website is often the better choice: faster, more secure and lower maintenance. We decide which fits at the start.
Data recovery
Can you guarantee that my data will be recovered?
No – and nobody serious can promise that across the board. Only the analysis shows whether and how much can be recovered. I will tell you honestly what the chances are.
My hard drive is clicking or no longer detected. What should I do?
Switch the drive off immediately and do not switch it on again. Unusual noises indicate mechanical damage; every further start can destroy the data for good. Such cases require a specialised data recovery lab.
What happens to my private data?
It is treated confidentially, used only for the recovery and deleted after handover and your confirmation. We agree on the details before starting.
Should I try a recovery program myself?
Better not on the affected drive. Every write operation – including installing a program – can overwrite deleted data. Avoid using the drive until it has been analysed.
Microcontrollers and embedded
Which microcontrollers and interfaces do you support?
My focus is on ESP32 and Arduino-compatible platforms. Other platforms, bus systems or protocols are assessed case by case – I will tell you openly if something is outside my experience.
I only have an idea, no schematic. Is that a problem?
No. We start with the purpose and requirements; from there, a test setup and then a robust solution are developed step by step.
IT support and troubleshooting
Do I need to describe my problem in technical terms?
No. Just describe what you observe – for example "the printer stopped printing yesterday". We will figure out the rest together.
How does remote support work?
After arranging an appointment, you start a remote support program and grant me one-time access. You can see everything I do and end the connection at any time.
Do you come to my home?
Yes, by appointment. Alternatively, you can drop off devices or – where possible – get help remotely.
How quickly can you help?
Appointments depend on availability. I do not offer guaranteed response times – but I will tell you honestly when I have time.
Get in touch by email
Describe your situation in your own words – no technical background needed. I will get back to you with an honest assessment.