PC Maintenance in 5 Steps

July 6, 2011 | Author: | Posted in Computers

Maintaining a PC is essential if you do not want to keep replacing parts and software. Over time your computer collects unwanted software just like it collects dust. So without proper maintenance you could potentially fry your computer or clog up much needed space. I’m going to give you a few tips on Preventative maintenance for your PC.

Step 1: Cleaning Inside the Case

Cleaning inside your computer case can potentially prolong the life of your computer. Your computer is made up of electronics that get very hot so you want to keep them cool as possible. Just like a car engine without proper cooling your computer can fry components.

  1. Use rubbing alcohol and wipe off any openings with a cotton ball to open up air flow
  2. Remove the computer’s case and use compressed air to clean out any dust bunnies
  3. Clear dust from any fans by using compressed air and rubbing alcohol with cotton balls
  4. Make sure there are no nicks in wiring and it’s a good idea to tie wrap excess cordage

Step 2: Optimize Your System

Having poor performing software and a slow responsive operating system are one of the top reasons why consumers replace their computers. I will show you a few steps below to help speed up the performance of your computer.

  1. Run a system defrag on your computer doing this can compress and delete duplicate files.
  2. Delete temporary files and cookies from your web browser along with clearing the cache.
  3. Scan for viruses, spyware and adware.
  4. Perform backups on your system to prevent data loss and set restore points
  5. Do a check disk scan to check integrity of system files.

Step 3: Organize Your Files

Organizing your files and programs can be beneficial to you and your computer. Having a good organized PC can help find your files faster and if your computer is slower you are not searching and opening folders that don’t contain your correct files.

  1. Keep your installed programs in the programs folder for ease of access.
  2. Organize your pictures and music, put your documents in sub-folders Example: My Pictures>Dad’s 40th Bday | My Music> U2
  3. Disable unwanted start-up programs
  4. Name your files correctly so they are easily found when you search for them

Step 4: I/O Components

Maintaining your keyboard, mouse, and monitor can help keep your computers components working smoothly.

  1. Keep your mouse clean by removing debris from the lens on the bottom or by removing the track ball and cleaning with rubbing alcohol. If your mouse is wireless change out your batteries regularly when you notice slow or glitchy performance.
  2. Clean your keyboard out with a can of compressed air, turn upside down to ensure all debris comes out. Prevent spills so keys don’t become unresponsive.
  3. Clean your monitor with a damp cloth or microfiber cloth and avoid using paper towels to prevent the screen from getting scratched. Clean vents with a cloth to avoid overheating.

Step 5: Upgrade old Components

Upgrading older computer parts can help to speed up your old PC. By replacing old PC components you can give your computer an extra boost and give it a longer life.

  1. Upgrade older memory with a larger amount and keep memory modules in pairs as some have compatibility issues. Also keep in mind that 32 bit operating systems are only good up to 4GB of RAM so any more is a waste.
  2. Having display issues or slow running games? Try upgrading your graphics card to a newer model.
  3. Loud and noisy fans can be a sign of them getting ready to die or being clogged by gunk. Replace older fans for good air flow.
  4. A noisy hard drive can be early signs of failure at the very least backup your data to a new hard drive or replace it all together.

Conclusion
Maintaining your PC is essential if you want your computer to have a longer life span. By maintaining your computer you are saving money by doing preventive maintenance and replacing older parts. If you would like to read more about computer parts you can check out my tutorial above by clicking Preventative maintenance for your PC.

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I guess you could say I'm kind of a computer guru. I have studied computer science and love being a tech nerd. My passion is designing graphics and developing new ideas. Hope you have fun reading my posts and be sure and leave any questions or comments!

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