Summary

Chapter 11: Advanced Personal Computers 27Identify and Apply Common PreventiveMaintenance Techniques for PersonalComputer ComponentsTo keep computers working properly, you must maintain them by performing preventivemaintenance. Preventive maintenance can extend the life of the components, protect data,and improve computer performance.After completing this section, you will meet these objectives:■■■Clean internal componentsClean the caseInspect computer componentsClean Internal ComponentsOne important part of computer preventive maintenance is to keep the system clean. Theamount of dust in the environment and the habits of the user determine how often to cleanthe computer components. Most of your cleaning is to prevent the accumulation of dust.To remove dust, do not use a vacuum cleaner. Vacuum cleaners can generate static and candamage or loosen components and jumpers. Instead, you should use compressed air to blowthe dust away. If you use compressed air from a can, keep the can upright to prevent thefluid from leaking onto computer components. Always follow the instructions and warningson the compressed air can.Regular cleaning also gives you a chance to inspect components for loose screws and connectors.There are several parts inside the computer case that you should keep as clean aspossible:■■■■■■■Heat sink/fan assemblyRAMAdapter cardsMotherboardCase fanPower supplyInternal drivesCautionWhen you clean a fan with compressed air, hold the fan blades in place. This prevents overspinningthe rotor or moving the fan in the wrong direction.