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    Kim Komando, America's Digital Goddess
     

    Clean Computer

    Here are Tools & Chemicals you need for have a clean computer CPU casing.

    Soft cloth, Computer cleaning fluid, compressed air, safety glasses, pre-treated computer wipes, vacuum cleaner, and special cleaning attachments.

    Technique:

    It is best to store the CPU off the floor, on a solid surface to minimize dust and permit proper cooling (carpet will not allow for airflow beneath unit). Vacuum all cooling slots. Do not use compressed air on these openings, as it moves large amounts of dust inside the CPU, which is akin to pouring fine sand into the processor. Conversely, if you are trying to kill your computer, this, water, and blunt impacts are the quickest methods.

    Keeping the vents clean maximizes airflow for cooling, which is very important for the longevity of the CPU. Processor failures are most commonly associated with the expansion and contraction of connections and components. By keeping the overall operating temperature low, the extremes between operating and shut down temperatures is reduced, lowering the magnitude of the cycles, and increasing life span. Wipe down the casing with a soft cloth dampened with a specialized computer cleaning fluid or plain water. Never spray any cleaner directly onto your office equipment. Always spray the cloth and wipe the equipment.

    Clean Computer

    Clean Computer

    If you feel you need to remove the casing and clean inside, use compressed air only.  Take care to direct the air out and away from the casing so you don’t drive the dust deeper into cracks and crevices. A slightly errant brush, cloth, or vacuum can cause permanent damage, and without even touching the boards, a zap of static electricity can destroy a processor. Check your warranty before taking any office equipment apart.  If you remove the cover for the casing you can wipe down the inside of the casing before closing the and securing CPU etc.  These are some basics for having  a clean  computer.

    Recommended Products

    Computer Screens Cleaning

    How to clean your Computer Screen

    Tools & Chemicals:

    Soft cloth, anti-static cloth, water, specialized screen cleaner

    Technique:

    1. Conventional wisdom is that you should only clean a computer monitor screen with a damp cloth, as many computer screens have an anti-glare coating that you risk damaging if you use a harsh household cleaner. Even traditional window cleaners can damage some coatings and screens, especially on laptop computers screen. Always check your manual.

    2. Screen wipes are also available which are also great for the keyboard and general cleaning. Wipe your screen first, then the keyboard, mouse, and casing. Stop your computer from getting dirty in the first place by having them handy to wipe the grease off your fingers after eating junk food.

    3. If you are using just a damp cloth to wipe the computer screen, be sure to dry it off as well to prevent streaking.

    4. When cleaning the monitor casing use a soft cloth with your cleaning fluid. Always spray onto the cloth, not the equipment!

    5. Antistatic sprays and other specialty cleaning chemicals are very common, and are formulated so they will not cause damage to even the most sensitive screens. Their effectiveness is questioned by some, but others swear by them. The theory is that as the product cleans it leaves a neutral charge, whereas a positive or negative charge will attract dust. The effectiveness is likely more a result of environment, but considering the insignificant cost it is probably worth it.

    How to clean your computers CPU

    How to clean your Computers CPU

    Tools & Chemicals:

    Soft cloth, Computer cleaning fluid, compressed air, pre-treated computer wipes, vacuum cleaner, and special cleaning attachments.

    Technique:

    1. It is best to store the CPU off the floor, on a solid surface to minimize dust and permit proper cooling (carpet will not allow for airflow beneath unit). Vacuum all cooling slots. Do not use compressed air on these openings, as it moves large amounts of dust inside the CPU, which is akin to pouring fine sand into the processor. Conversely, if you are trying to kill your computer, this, water, and blunt impacts are the quickest methods. Keeping the vents clean maximizes airflow for cooling, which is very important for the longevity of the CPU. Processor failures are most commonly associated with the expansion and contraction of connections and components. By keeping the overall operating temperature low, the extremes between operating and shut down temperatures is reduced, lowering the magnitude of the cycles, and increasing life span. Wipe down the casing with a soft cloth dampened with a specialized computer cleaning fluid or plain water. Never spray any cleaner directly onto your office equipment. Always spray the cloth and wipe the equipment.

    2. If you feel you need to remove the casing and clean inside, use compressed air only. A slightly errant brush, cloth, or vacuum can cause permanent damage, and without even touching the boards, a zap of static electricity can destroy a processor. Check your warranty before taking any office equipment apart.

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