Frequently Asked Questions

Q:	What is an original replacement part, and why is that important?
A:	Original parts match the part that came with the product when it was new. These parts are certified by the manufacturer to match the functionality, feel and color of what was originally delivered with the product. This is the only way to ensure that you will receive the right part for the right product, and that it will function exactly as the manufacturer intended.
Q:	What is the difference between an original part and an aftermarket part?
A:	Original parts are produced by the manufacturer to the exact specifications of the part that originally came with the product. Aftermarket parts are produced by third party manufacturers to emulate most of the functions of the original. Aftermarket parts cannot be guaranteed to match the original part in performance, color, and quality.
Q:	Are all the parts that you sell new?
A:	All parts are new except for some in the computer parts category. Parts in the computer category may be classified as remanufactured, or refurbished. This is a common practice whereby parts are removed from a used computer, cleaned, tested and certified for resale. All parts we sell are guaranteed to function as new parts and are covered by the Warranty Policy.
Q:	What's the difference between a universal and an original remote control?
A:	Universal remote controls are made to control the most popular functions on a wide variety of products. Original remote controls perform all of the functions on the product as it was intended and designed by the manufacturer. If you would like to be able to control all of your product's functionality, you need the original remote.
Q:	What is the difference between a NiCad and an NiMH battery?
A:	The main difference between the two is the fact that NiMH batteries (the newer of the two technologies) offer higher energy densities than NiCads. In other words, pound for pound, NiMH delivers approximately twice the capacity of its NiCad counterpart. What this translates into is increased run-time from the battery with no additional bulk to weigh down your portable device. NiMH also offers another major advantage: NiCad batteries tend to suffer from what is called the "memory effect". NiMH batteries are less prone to develop this dreaded affliction and thus require less maintenance and care. NiMH batteries are also more environmentally friendly than their NiCad counterparts since they do not contain heavy metals (which present serious landfill problems).
Q:	What is a Li-Ion battery?
A:	Li-Ion has quickly become the emerging standard for portable power in consumer devices. Li-Ion batteries produce the same energy as NiMH batteries but weigh approximately 35% less. This is crucial in applications such as camcorders or notebook computers where the battery makes up a significant portion of the device's weight. Another reason Li-Ion batteries have become so popular is that they do not suffer from the memory effect at all. They are also environmentally friendly because they don't contain toxic materials such as Cadmium or Mercury.
Q:	What is the difference between a part and an accessory?
A:	Accessories may be generally defined as devices designed to adapt, modify, install, amplify, connect, clean, and maintain the original product. They are product enhancements. Parts, on the other hand, generally refer to functional items that are part of the basic design of a product.
Q:	Does PartStore.com repair LCD laptop screens?
A:	Yes. We offer a full laptop screen replacement service. Please call our Account Management team at 1-866-925-PART (7278) and have your brand and model number ready. Mail us your laptop, we'll replace the broken LCD screen in less than 72 hours and return it to you with free 2-Day Shipping. Call for this low cost service now.
Q:	Cellular accessories can be found at the local mall. What is the difference between these accessories compared to what's sold through PartStore.com?
A:	Most cellular accessories found in retailers are "aftermarket" accessories. These are products manufactured by third parties. (See question #2 above for the difference between original and aftermarket parts.)
Q:	Can I go directly to the manufacturer to purchase original parts?
A:	Yes - and no. While some manufacturers sell parts directly to consumers, many do not. The ones that do not will refer you to a distributor. There are dozens of manufacturers and distributors, making it very difficult to find the part for which you are looking. We provide a single source that consolidates information from the entire industry, making it much easier to find parts.
Q:	What if I need a part for my outdoor grill or my power tools?
A:	We currently represent the consumer electronics, major appliance, cellular and computer categories. As we continue to grow our business, we will scale our offerings to include these categories and more.