by Rachel Webb
| Computers
have become such an essential part of our life that for most people,
computer use is a daily occurrence. As with any appliance that is frequently
used on a daily basis it should be cleaned at least once a week. However,
I'm pretty safe in stating that most computers are not cleaned nearly
that often. In fact unless the dust interferes with my screen graphics
or the keys stick so bad that spellcheck has a nervous breakdown, cleaning
the computer is the last thing on my mind. Depending on where your computer
is located dust, dirt, food, grease or cat hair can really reek havoc
on your computer equipment. Dirty hardware can cause your keyboard to
malfunction or even crash your hard drive
. Perhaps you do not know how to safely clean your computer or are concerned that you will damage one of the most expensive appliances in your home? Here are some general maintenance tips for your monitor, CPU and Keyboard. Before cleaning always shut down your computer and unplug the keyboard (remember water and power don't go together) There are several good commercial products available for computer cleaning but you can also use some ammonia-free common household cleaners as long as they are not sprayed directly onto the equipment. MONITOR - Spray suitable cleaners onto a clean lint-free cloth and wipe the screen. You can use a Q-Tip to clean the outside edge of the monitor frame. You can purchase special keyboard vacuums but it is not necessary, you can use the hose and brush attachment on your vacuum to clean the air vents! KEYBOARD - By carefully turning your keyboard upside down you can tap the bottom of the board to loosen any dirt that may have fallen beneath the keys. Clean each key individually with a clean cloth and cleaner as well, a moistened cotton ball works well if you do not over saturate it. Spray Cans of compressed air are also available to help blow the dust away. Using a "keyboard skin" product will keep your keyboard clean longer. CPU - Never insert anything into any drive, just clean the outside of the device and vacuum every 3 months or more. Beware of children eating or playing around your drives. Trust me, a cheese sandwich does not store well in a disk drive! PREVENTATIVE MAINTENANCE 1) Spilled coffee and soda are probably the #1 way to damage your keyboard, avoid letting food and drink around your computer station. 2) Cover your keyboard and Monitor when not in use. 3) Wash your hands before using the computer. Copyright 2001 Author Rachel Webb designs 100% Magnetic Fridge Calendars that are easier to clean than a computer just Write-on/Wipe-off! Made entirely out of heavy-duty magnet they are Guaranteed not to slide off the Fridge when the kids slam the fridge door! Visit www.Note-Ables.com and mention this publication for a $2 off Coupon
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