• December 11, 2008

In yet another sign of the new frugality, Best Buy's Geek Squad has added a "fix or replace calculator" to help customers who are on the fence about whether they should pay to upgrade or replace ailing devices, or just spring for a new one.

The calculator (www.geeksquad.com/calculator) covers laptops, digital cameras, TVs and cell phones.

"A lot of us are feeling financial strain and this holiday," the company says in its release. "Geekonomics tools and tips ensure that civilians make informed decisions about what to buy (and what not to), as well a

s how to make the most of their gear once they get it home." The company is also offering extended live-chat hours for Christmas Eve and Christmas.--Sarah Mahoney