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Anita Bora
Remember the coffee you split over the keyboard? All those chunks of meat that got under the keys while you were enjoying a hamburger? And you wonder why the keys are jammed, and your mouse gives you jerky movements!
We spend a lot of time on the usual virus checks, scan disk and defrag, but forget that the 'outside' needs as much, if not more, attention. However, a quick dab with your wet kitchen towel might not be the best remedy for the dirt and grime on your computer and its accessories. Let's tackle the parts separately…
Keyboard
Monitor
Mouse
Accessories
Keyboard
In this interesting article, the managing director of a cleaning firm reveals that all kinds of odds and ends have been found in keyboards including "cockroaches, eyelashes - real and fake, big chunks of skin, blood, rat droppings, fingernails, hair, and of course, food".
Before you start looking at your own suspiciously, read this technical note on cleaning keyboards. The author details the whole cleaning process that takes up to two hours and promises to restore smooth performance.
If you don't want to go through the process of taking out all the keycaps, these instructions might work for you. Message boards like Stoopid Computer can help you discuss problems further.
Some tips:
- Remember to turn off your computer and unplug the power cord while cleaning.
- A harsh cleaner could have negative effects on some computer parts.
- Canned air (if available) can be used to dust and blow off loose stuff.
Monitor
Have you looked closely at your monitor lately? Did you notice that thin coat of grime on the surface and those oily blotches? Monitors can be cleaned with any good household cleaner, just make sure you turn the power off before you do so.
Get instructions on cleaning your monitor and PC with wipes and solution. Mac users will find a detailed guide here.
Tips:
- When cleaning your computer and monitor, use anti-static cloth rather than a rag.
- Check your manual. Some monitor screens need a special cleaner.
- Keep computer wipes handy as they clean up quickly.
Mouse
In the case of this mouse, it's not the cat that does the damage, but little bits of dirt that accumulate on the track ball contained within the casing. When these bits get bigger, they cause the rollers inside to slip and make the cursor behave strangely.
That's when you know it's cleanup time.
Opening the mouse is quite easy. To clean the track ball and rollers, you'll need a basic set of supplies. This illustrated guide takes you through the process.
Tips:
- Avoid spilling directly on the mouse.
- Get a good mouse pad and keep it clean.
Accessories
Printers, speakers and microphones also require some attention periodically. The exteriors can be cleaned with a soft cloth and water or a good household cleaner.
Some tips on cleaning the interiors:
- Don't use alcohol, ammonia or sprays.
- Check the user manuals for necessary cleaning instructions.
- Don't forget to turn off the computer.
- Make sure the cleaning liquid doesn't drip into the casing.
MORE LINKS
PC Hygiene |
Basic Cleaning Techniques |
Keeping Computers Clean |
Cleaning Tips |
Keyboard Guide
Cleaning Basics:
Keyboard |
Monitor |
Disk
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