TAKING CARE OF YOUR HARDWARE

Your computer, like a car, needs regular maintenance to run smoothly. The processor and power supply produces heat, and fans are needed to provide proper airflow to cool the system accordingly. Unfortunately, many computer cases do not have an air filtering system like our cars or furnaces do. Therefore, dust, pet hair and anything else flying through the air can clog fan vents, inhibiting air flow.

To counteract this problem, it is recommended that your computer be turned off, opened up, and 'dusted' on a regular basis. Many computer stores carry cans of compressed air with an attachable nozzle to blow out the dust bunnies accumulating on the circuitry and fans. Canned air can be expensive so use it wisely and carefully. Do not turn the can upside down as the can may become very cold and 'burn' your hands and fingers. Canned air is also useful for blowing out dust in other peripherals such as mice and keyboards.

Before you open that case and reach inside, make sure the computer is turned off and you have eliminated power to the motherboard. Ground yourself by touching a metal part of the case and reach inside to move any cables out of the way while using compressed air.

Speaking of power, by plugging your computer into a surge protector (basically a beefed up power strip) you provide a steady stream of electricity to your computer and its internal components. Hardware (and software) damage can occur when power dips or surges during a storm or any other event. Plug in all components to this surge protector including your modem or network lines. I personally prefer APC products. They have a wide range of power supplies, and surge protectors available for home or office. A UPS allows you to save and safely shut down your computer during power outages. The cost of these may vary and are usually dependent on amount of battery power required.

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