A1Technical

There are dozens of programs available, some free and some for purchase, that aide and advise the everyday computer user how to clean and protect their computer from Viruses, Spam, Spyware and an assortment of other unwanted programs and files that can slow your computer down, take up valuable disk space and effect its performance.

If you have a desktop, tower or laptop system, they will at some time need servicing of another kind that will help to keep it running and performing like new.  Here are a few processes you can, (and should) use regularly to really keep your computer clean and save on costly maintenance fees.

What you will need:

• can of compressed air (available from computer dealers or office-supply stores)
• cotton swabs (do not use a cotton ball)
• rubbing alcohol (clear 50% Isopropyl)
• paper towels or anti-static cloths
• water
• screwdriver

Always turn your computer off before you begin and unplug all the cords. Discharge static electricity by touching the metal case or something metal such as a paper clip.

Inside the case:

Computers attract dust which can cause fans to stop working and cause overheating and damage to inside components. (Motherboard, Processors, Video cards, network adapters).

Using a screwdriver, remove the side of the case that's opposite your motherboard. Try not to touch inside components.
 Blow air around all of the components and along the bottom of the case to remove debris keeping the nozzle four inches away from the machine. Blow air into the power supply box and into the fan (from the back of the case). Lastly, blow air into the floppy disk and CD drives. Wipe the inside of the cover with a lightly moistened cloth before replacing it.

The case:

Do not spray water on the case. Dampen one end of a cotton swab with rubbing alcohol. Around the opening on the rear of the case, give them a swipe with the damp end and then with the dry end.  Lightly moistened your cloth or paper towel with water and wipe the case.

The Monitor:

Moisten a paper towel or a soft, lint-free cloth with water. (You can also buy monitor cleaning products at computer-supply stores.) Don’t sprays liquid directly onto the screen—spray the cloth instead. Wipe the screen gently to remove dust and fingerprints.

Cleaning Keyboards and . . .

Turn the keyboard upside down and gently shake it. Most of the crumbs and dust will fall out. Take a can of compressed air and blow into and around the keys. Next, take a cotton swab and dip it in rubbing alcohol. Rub the tops of the keys and run the cotton swab around the outside of the keys.

.  . . . Spills happen:

Disconnect the keyboard immediately and flip it over allowing liquids to flow out. Blot the top with a paper towel, blow compressed air between the keys and leave it to air dry overnight. For laptops, liquid can easily penetrate the hard drive so turn the computer over immediately and leave it in that position until it dries. Perform the cleaning routine.

The Mouse with roller ball:

Rub the top and bottom of your mouse with a paper towel dipped in rubbing alcohol. Open the back and remove the ball. Wash the ball with water and let it air dry. To clean inside the mouse, dip a cotton swab in rubbing alcohol and rub all of the components. Scrape hard-to-remove grime with your fingernail. Finally, blow air into the opening. Replace the ball and the cover.

Finally, make sure that everything is dry before you plug your computer back in.

For CD and DVD players, you may want to purchase a disk cleaning kit. TigerDirect