Simple methods of Computer Care I

Overview

Although PCs are generally very reliable and seem to perform day after day with little or no maintenance, they do need a minimum level of care to perform trouble free and have an acceptable service life.

The proper and recommended care requirements means keeping the PC case, monitor,keyboard and mouse clean and reasonably dust free.

PC Case

This information is not for portable computers.

Inside the Case

Keeping the PC clean occasionally means opening the PC case to remove the dust build up on the circuit boards and other components. The dust build up inside the PC case is almost entirely caused by the cooling fans that draw air into the case to help keep the components cool. The heat generated by the components while the PC is running.

Before you attempt to open the case it is recommended that you obtain an electrical earthing strap from you local computer store. This connects around your wrist at one end with a clip on the other end for attaching to the computer case. This discharges the static electricity in your body to earth, reducing the possibility of the static charge damaging the electronics in the computer case.

Some people will tell you that the earthing strap is not necessary because the chances of causing damage due to static discharge is very low. However, it would be remiss of this Guide not to advise you of the safe methods.

The cleaning must be done carefully because many of the internal components are easily damaged, by either physical pressure or electrical discharge (generally referred to as zapping). It is highly recommended that you use a small lightweight fluffy duster with a handle and not a hand-held cloth.

You can also vacuum cleaner with a soft brush attachment, but do not allow the weight of the vacuum cleaner tube to apply any pressure to the components.

Cooling Fan Inlets

It is also important to clean the cooling fan/s inlet grills / slots. Depending on the type of fan covering, this can be done by just wiping the covering. However, dust also builds up just inside fan coverings.

This is typically difficult to remove from inside the case because the fans or other components prevent access. The best method is to use a special fitting for a vacuum cleaner with a reduced size nozzle. Some PC stores and speciality stores sell these as accessories.

It is better to only partially clean the fan inlets than use the full size vacuum cleaner nozzles because damage to your PC could result.

Basic Computer Care in the Workplace

In the workplace your IT Services probably do not allow you to open the PC case, but they may have a program for regularly inspecting computer equipment for preventative maintenance. However, if the PC is operating in a dusty environment, you should report it for cleaning if the fan areas are particularly dirty or the case starts to feel warmer than normal. This can prevent data loss and costly down time if housekeeping of this nature is attended to before a failure occurs.

Coming soon- Information on monitor care.