Hardware Reference
In-Depth Information
Cleaning a System
Oneofthemostimportantoperationsinagoodpreventivemaintenanceprogramisregular
and thorough cleaning of the system. Dust buildup on the internal components can lead
to several problems. One is that the dust acts as a thermal insulator, which prevents prop-
er system cooling. Excessive heat shortens the life of system components and adds to
the thermal stress problem caused by greater temperature changes between the system's
power-on and power-off states. Additionally, the dust can contain conductive elements
that can cause partial short circuits in a system. Other elements in dust and dirt can accel-
erate corrosion of electrical contacts, resulting in improper connections. In all, the regular
removal of any layer of dust and debris from within a computer system benefits that sys-
tem in the long run.
Tip
Cigarette smoke contains chemicals that can conduct electricity and cause corrosion of com-
puter parts. The smoke residue can infiltrate the entire system, causing corrosion and con-
tamination of electrical contacts and sensitive components, such as floppy drive read/write
headsandopticaldrivelensassemblies.Youshouldavoidsmokingnearcomputerequipment
and encourage your company to develop and enforce a similar policy.
Properly cleaning the system and all the boards inside requires certain supplies and tools.
In addition to the tools required to disassemble the unit, you should have these items:
• Contact cleaning solution
• Canned air
• A small brush
• Lint-free foam cleaning swabs
• Antistatic wrist-grounding strap
You also might want to acquire these optional items:
• Air compressor
• Vacuum cleaner
These simple cleaning tools and chemical solutions enable you to perform most common
preventive maintenance tasks.
Chemicals
Chemicals can be used to help clean, troubleshoot, and even repair a system. You can use
several types of cleaning solutions with computers and electronic assemblies. Most fall
into the following categories:
