Proper computer care. How to properly care for your computer

Do you want to buy a new mouse four times a year? Digging into the system unit every year, changing the fan and, possibly, a processor damaged by overheating? Should I buy glasses for my eyes, which have been damaged by the daily contemplation of a dusty, poorly configured monitor? Probably all users will answer these questions decisively “no!” We'll tell you how to avoid all of the above by regularly caring for your computer.

Why does a computer need maintenance?

Those who consider a computer to be a simple working tool like a hammer are quite far from the truth. Human technical thought has come a long way, and the maintenance-free hammer is at the beginning and the computer at the end. Even according to the roughest estimate, a computer consists of 4 components - the system unit, monitor, mouse and keyboard. Having understood the system unit in more detail, we will increase this number to at least 10, and if we remember that the processor consists of tens of millions of transistors, then applying the well-known law “the reliability of a machine is inversely proportional to the number of its nodes” to a PC will become completely scary. Of course, there is a serious barrier in the way of errors and malfunctions in the form of the most stringent quality control systems that are implemented in all large electronics production plants, but still, the computer is too complex and a lot can go “wrong”, and you will have to turn to computer help.

Regularity of prevention

Turning on and off

System operation monitoring

System unit and its contents

To minimize the likelihood of failure, you need to operate the computer and its individual components in the modes that the manufacturer expected when displaying its reliability graphs. And the user’s task is to meet the manufacturer’s expectations to the best of his ability. In this case, the equipment will meet the buyer’s expectations, especially since caring for it is not very difficult and rarely takes a lot of time. The benefits of preventive measures are probably obvious - a properly working computer always turns on when the user needs it, conscientiously opens and prints the necessary documents , shows movies and plays music, entertains with games, etc. A faulty computer brings a lot of problems, spoils the nerves, takes more time to complete the same tasks, and sometimes simply loses the user’s documents, leading to direct financial and physical losses.

Regularity of prevention

It is better to prevent a disease than to treat it. Any doctor will tell you this. The problem is that to prevent a disease, you need to notice its first signs or even some unfavorable combination of factors that can lead to the disease. Therefore, mothers do not let their children go outside without a scarf and hat when it snows and the wind blows, so dentists recommend visiting them for a preventive examination twice a year. And therefore, you cannot wipe the monitor from dust once every two months, and check the disk for errors only after the loss of the first working files. These simple operations must be performed regularly. Some actions must be taken depending on the situation, that is, if a certain event has occurred.

Taking care of your computer every day requires little time. The main thing here is the correct approach to simple operations, such as turning on and off the computer. Once you get used to it, you won’t notice the time wasted or experience any inconvenience.

Turning on and off

The correct order of turning on the PC is also important. The consequences of non-compliance are not obvious, because they rarely appear, but in the form of unpleasant problems that will take a lot of time to solve. First you need to turn on the printer and/or scanner, as well as an external modem if you need them for your work. Then the monitor turns on (if it is not powered through the system unit), and only lastly - the computer itself. The shutdown order is reverse - first the computer, then the monitor, then the peripherals.

Naturally, devices connected through various power stabilizers and UPSs require first turning on their power supply. It is highly recommended to shut down a computer running Windows OS using standard means, i.e. through the “Start” menu and its “Shut Down” item. Modern computers with an ATX motherboard will shut down automatically under Windows; on older PCs without power management, you must shut down the computer yourself when you see the message "You can now turn off the power" on the screen. When working under Windows 98, a problem often occurs - the computer freezes in the last stages of shutdown, leaving a picture with clouds on the screen. There is no simple solution to the problem, so before consulting with a good specialist, you can turn off the computer manually, letting this picture remain on the screen for 30-40 seconds. If Windows prompts you to boot into Safe Mode when you turn on your computer, try booting into Normal Mode first. Only after the download fails, go to safe mode.

Many users are annoyed by the Scandisk program, which launches after an incorrect shutdown of the computer. Of course, in many cases running it will be unnecessary, but only specialists and experienced users can distinguish important and unimportant reasons for checking the disk. Therefore, it is better to be patient - regular disk checking eliminates many problems with the loss of important data.

Finally, we note one more important point. If you turn on your computer and suddenly decide to turn it off (or vice versa), take your time. Frequent switching on and off is very harmful to electronics, especially those running on alternating current. Therefore, be sure to wait 15 seconds between turning on and off your PC.

System operation monitoring

To see that everything is in order with your system, you need to monitor a lot of parameters of its operation. Let's mention the temperature of the processor, the rotation speed of its fan, the voltage on the motherboard, as well as other, easier to measure parameters - free space on the hard drive, processor load, RAM capacity, etc. For constant monitoring, various programs are being developed, for example the first group of parameters The MBProbe utility measures the second, and the second, no matter how trivial it may sound, is the Ctrl+Alt+Del key combination, as well as a huge number of various programs, but you shouldn’t get too carried away with them, because All these programs are “registered” in startup over time, which leads to a drop in the performance of your PC and an increase in boot time.

Find the diagnostic information screen in the BIOS. With its help, it will be easy to determine when the processor becomes “stuffy”. In order not to climb into the BIOS every day, get yourself a monitor program. It will monitor the “health” of the processor automatically. Most often, the necessary applications are supplied with the motherboard. Your participation in the work is not necessary - the program itself will notify you about critical situations.

System unit and its contents

Located: motherboard with a processor installed on it, RAM, expansion cards (video adapter, sound card, TV tuner, etc.). In compartments for storage devices - hard drives, CD-ROM drives, etc. Power supply.

Proper voltage supply and proper cooling are important for the processor to operate. The first mainly depends on the motherboard, but cooling is up to you. Once you buy a good fan and install it correctly on the processor, you can’t stop. It is necessary to regularly monitor its rotation speed and when it decreases, as well as when the average temperature of the processor increases, proceed to preventive actions. The same should be done, regardless of the sensor readings, two to three times a year.

Turn off the computer and all peripherals, disconnect it from the electrical network, local network and peripheral devices. This is a mandatory procedure in all cases when you have to operate with the computer's hardware. Carefully remove the system unit cover. If it consists of several parts, remove the left wall. You will see a cluster of wires and expansion cards, all installed on the motherboard. Arm yourself with a compressed air cylinder (sold in computer stores, another name is a pneumatic cleaner), or a blow-out vacuum cleaner. As a last resort, a regular home vacuum cleaner in this case requires removing the metal tubes of its handle and installing a flat nozzle directly on the flexible hose, but its effectiveness is low (especially under the cooler on the processor), and there is a possibility of accidentally damaging components.

As much as possible, avoiding loose wires or direct physical contact of the nozzle with the circuit boards, vacuum the inside of the system unit, paying particular attention to nooks and crannies, as well as the immediate surroundings of the processor. Place the nozzle (or a tube without nozzle) directly to the processor fan to blow out all the dust from it, as well as from the cracks of the radiator. Gently rotate the fan impeller and make sure there are no dust lumps stuck underneath it. Sometimes the insides of the system unit are favored by household insects. They need to be expelled using the same vacuum cleaner or other mechanical methods.

Attention! The use of various aerosols, liquids and powders is not allowed! Dust in the fan leads to its damage and overheating of the processor. Therefore, cleaning is not a tribute to aesthetics, but a vital necessity.

The hard drive itself is sealed, securely installed in the case and therefore does not require physical maintenance. Of course, protection from shaking and overheating is important, but these issues are resolved when assembling the computer, as well as by correctly installing the system unit (more on this below). The disks themselves require periodic checking and maintenance using software. Monthly monitoring will be quite enough for a medium-loaded computer.

Checking the disk for errors

It was already discussed above, but then Windows was the initiator of the check. Sometimes, even if everything is fine with the computer, you need to service the drive yourself. Launch Scandisk for Windows (My Computer -> Disk Properties -> Maintenance -> Run Scan or Start -> Programs -> Accessories -> System Tools -> Scan Disk) and select "Full Scan", which includes not only file system control, but and searching for physical disk read/write errors. Three to five bad sectors on a disk are not a reason to panic, you just need to check the disk more often (weekly), but if their number grows every week, it’s time to buy a new hard drive.

Disk Defragmenter

This operation is a companion to the monthly error check and is performed after all errors have been eliminated. Its essence is simple - the file system is optimized for the fastest and most reliable operation. Directory tables of contents are written to the beginning of the disk, files from one directory are moved so as to be written adjacent and without fragmentation (the entire file is written to a consecutive chain of sectors on the hard drive). If you neglect defragmentation, the OS will become slower, and in case of failures it will be very difficult to restore files on the disk. This does not apply to Windows 7, because... there it is implemented automatically in the background.

Virus check

This operation, of course, does not apply to disk maintenance, but as a preventive measure it is simply necessary, especially in our Information Age. Of course, for this you need to have a full-fledged anti-virus program with regularly updated virus databases.

Checking disk lifespan

Modern hard drives have self-diagnosis capabilities. To take advantage of these capabilities, S.M.A.R.T was developed - an industry standard for monitoring peripheral devices in normal and faulty mode. Simply put, the hard drive itself registers minor (non-dangerous) errors in operation and, based on this data, predicts how soon it will fail. To extract this information, use a special utility such as SiGuardian or HDDSpeed. Of course, you can run them daily, but in normal cases a weekly check will be sufficient. And if suddenly, when turning on, the computer begins to ask you to press the F1 key, then you need to sound the alarm, perhaps this is the S.M.A.R.T diagnostic system.

CD-ROM drives

CD-ROM drives do not require any phenomenal maintenance. When the reading quality noticeably deteriorates (depending on the intensity of use and the quality of the drive, this can be a year or three), you need to clean the optical system using a special cleaning kit (a special disk and liquid), which can be purchased at computer stores. As a preventative measure, it is wise to carry out this cleaning annually. Well, to extend the life of the drive, avoid keeping it open for a long time, check the disks before installing them in the drive and reject those that are clearly faulty (heavily scratched, uneven, with a clearly shifted center of gravity and geometric center). It would also be a good idea to wipe the discs from dust with a very soft and dry cloth. These are used for wiping glasses on glasses. “Sweet couple” - cleaning floppy disk and cleaning CD-ROM. To ensure that the disc itself lasts longer, do not bend it, carefully insert and remove it from the box and into the CD-ROM drive, and protect it from moisture, temperature changes and direct sunlight. Never grasp the working (bottom) surface of the disc, only its ribs, and do not leave the disc lying without a case.

power unit

In addition to ensuring proper power supply, this part of the system unit only needs one preventative procedure. We are talking about protection from dust that the fan needs. You can blow it out through the fan grille using compressed air or a vacuum cleaner; good power supplies have a lot of ventilation holes on the walls, usually hidden inside the system unit. In general, the procedure is similar to that done with the processor. Some things can be wiped without opening the computer. The power supply fan is also damaged by dust. All this dust accumulates inside the power supply. After opening the system unit, do not forget to blow out the power supply.

The mouse and keyboard carry the heaviest mechanical load of any PC part. At the same time, their refusal is the most harmless, although unpleasant. As a rule, manipulators do not fail immediately; first, some operations with their help begin to be performed unstably. Therefore, you will have time to go out and buy a new keyboard or mouse ($2 to $5). Well, to avoid this waste of time and money, pay a little attention to your keyboard and mouse. Careful operation. Of course, the keys are meant to be pressed, but that doesn't mean you have to hit them or press them into the table until they crack and squeak. It is common knowledge that the average keyboard lasts two to three times less for an avid gamer than for an average user. Further, you should not drink coffee at work, eat chips, generally crumble over the keyboard and spill liquids on it. The same applies to the mouse. By the way, it is better to use it on a special mouse pad, which is a full-fledged property of the mouse.

Weekly treatments

The least you can do is protect your equipment from dust. Regularly wipe the keyboard, mouse and mouse pad with a dry soft cloth or a special damp cleaning cloth. To remove grease from a mouse pad, you can wipe it with a cloth soaked in alcohol.

Monitor requires minimal care, but it needs to be done regularly - just for the sake of your vision. “Repairing” the eyes is not always possible, but it is always expensive, so it is better to spend time and money on high-quality monitors. Once or twice a week you need to thoroughly wipe the monitor from dust with a soft and dry cloth. Pay special attention to the screen - due to static electricity, it collects especially a lot of dust. This procedure must be performed with the monitor turned off, and at least 10 minutes must pass after turning off. When servicing the monitor (and other components), do not under any circumstances use polishes or other household chemicals that are not specifically intended for computer equipment. In the end, you can choose the simplest way to wipe the monitor - breathe on the glass (it will fog up slightly) and wipe it with a soft cloth. Looking at the glass from a wide angle, check for streaks and dirt.

Printer, especially inkjet

We will focus on inkjet printers, as they are the most common for home use. Like a monitor, a printer needs to be dusted off regularly, but monthly maintenance is a different matter. Irregular setting. It is required after changing the cartridge, and also if the clarity of the prints has decreased. Most jetters have an operation called head calibration. During calibration, the printer produces vertical and horizontal lines of different colors. Your task is to choose the version of the picture in which the lines are least broken at the junctions of colors. If everything is fine with the prints, regular adjustments are not needed. For your own peace of mind, it can be done once or twice a year. Almost all inkjet printers have a similar control panel. It solves most of the problems that users have. This operation is mandatory (especially on printers with a non-replaceable head) if you have not printed for a long time. In this case, cleaning should be done once a month. Insert a blank sheet of paper into the printer and perform the same operation in the printer control panel. This will waste a lot of ink, but the remainder will not dry out in the printer. Please note that if you only printed black and white documents, then at least the color print head needs cleaning, and vice versa. For printers with a fixed head, if the ink does dry out, soaking the head in distilled water for two to three days may help.

Cleaning the feed mechanism

Sooner or later, the drawing mechanism collects dust and begins to act up, pulling the paper poorly. When this happens (for preventive purposes - once a year), wipe the rubber rollers of the broaching mechanism with an alcohol-containing solution (for example, good vodka). Sometimes the feeding mechanism becomes contaminated with ink and begins to stain the paper. In this case, you need to take fairly loose paper and run it through the printer several times. Then take a blank sheet and run it through to make sure everything is in order.

Healthy eating

For the most reliable operation of a computer, it is advisable to protect it from voltage surges, which are often found in Russian electrical networks. The minimum option is a good voltage stabilizer. It can be distinguished from an extension cord with a light bulb by its higher price and heaviness. An even more reliable option is an uninterruptible power supply (UPS). Today they are inexpensive, household models cost from $40, but they significantly improve power characteristics and protect the computer from sudden power outages. This allows the PC owner to complete work normally, and not suddenly, thus extending the life of the computer and preserving the results of their work. UPS owners need to check their protector monthly. This is done very simply - just pull the UPS plug out of the socket and check whether the computer works for at least two to three minutes. If it works, everything is fine.

Comfortable climate

We've already talked about cooling inside the case, but what about cooling the case itself? No, it is not necessary to install a fan near the system unit, but it is very desirable to provide a bit of free space on the back and sides (at least 20-30 cm). In addition, do not place the system unit in direct sunlight or near heating devices. To protect from dust, lift the computer off the floor. Every ten centimeters plays a role - this can be easily checked by holding the computer for three to four months on the floor, and the same amount on the table. When choosing a location for the system unit, also keep in mind that it is undesirable to expose it to vibration, shaking and shock. Therefore, the table or PC stand must be stable, and the computer case itself must be protected from accidental tipping.

29.10.2010

Do you want to buy a new mouse four times a year? Digging into the system unit every year, changing the fan and, possibly, a processor damaged by overheating? Should you buy glasses for eyes that have become sunken from daily contemplation of a dusty, poorly configured monitor? Probably all users will answer these questions decisively “no!” We'll tell you how to avoid all of the above by regularly caring for your computer.

Remember that if you are not confident in your abilities, then it is better to entrust some actions (for example, cleaning the insides of the computer) to service engineers.

Why does a computer need maintenance?

Those who consider a computer to be a simple working tool like a hammer are quite far from the truth. Human technical thought has come a long way, and the maintenance-free hammer is at the beginning and the computer at the end. Even according to the roughest estimate, a computer consists of 4 components - the system unit, monitor, mouse and keyboard. Having understood the system unit in more detail, we will increase this number to at least 10, and if we remember that the processor consists of tens of millions of transistors, then applying the well-known law “the reliability of a machine is inversely proportional to the number of its nodes” to a PC will become completely scary. Of course, there is a serious barrier in the way of errors and malfunctions in the form of the most stringent quality control systems that are implemented in all large electronics production plants, but still, the computer is too complex and a lot can go “wrong”...

To minimize the likelihood of failure, you need to operate the computer and its individual components in the modes that the manufacturer expected when displaying its reliability graphs. And the user’s task is to meet the manufacturer’s expectations to the best of his ability. In this case, the equipment will meet the buyer’s expectations, especially since caring for it is not very difficult and rarely takes a lot of time.

The benefits of preventive measures are probably obvious - a properly working computer turns on whenever the user needs it, conscientiously opens and prints the necessary documents, shows movies and plays music, entertains with games, etc. A faulty computer brings a lot of problems, spoils the nerves, requires more time to perform the same tasks, and sometimes simply loses the user’s documents, leading to direct financial and physical losses.

Regularity of prevention

It is better to prevent a disease than to treat it. Any doctor will tell you this. The problem is that to prevent a disease, you need to notice its first signs or even some unfavorable combination of factors that can lead to the disease. Therefore, mothers do not let their children go outside without a scarf and hat when it snows and the wind blows, so dentists recommend visiting them for a preventive examination twice a year. And therefore, you cannot wipe the monitor from dust once every two months, and check the disk for errors only after the loss of the first working files. These simple operations must be performed regularly. Some actions must be taken depending on the situation, that is, if a certain event has occurred.

Taking care of your computer every day requires little time. The main thing here is the correct approach to simple operations, such as turning on and off the computer. Once you get used to it, you won't notice the time wasted or experience any inconvenience.

Turning on and off. The correct order of turning on the PC is also important. The consequences of non-compliance are not obvious, because they rarely appear, but in the form of unpleasant problems that will take a lot of time to solve. First you need to turn on the printer and/or scanner, as well as an external modem if you need them for your work. Then the monitor turns on (if it is not powered through the system unit), and only lastly - the computer itself. The shutdown order is reverse - first the computer, then the monitor, then the peripherals.

Naturally, devices connected through various power stabilizers and UPSs require first turning on their power supply.

It is highly recommended to shut down a computer running Windows OS using standard means, i.e. through the “Start” menu and its “Shut Down” item. Modern computers with an ATX motherboard will shut down automatically under Windows; on older PCs without power management, you must shut down the computer yourself when you see the message "You can now turn off the power" on the screen. When working under Windows 98, a problem often occurs - the computer freezes in the last stages of shutdown, leaving a picture with clouds on the screen. There is no simple solution to the problem, so before consulting with a good specialist, you can turn off the computer manually, letting this picture remain on the screen for 30-40 seconds. If Windows prompts you to boot into Safe Mode when you turn on your computer, try booting into Normal Mode first. Only after the download fails, go to safe mode.

Many users are annoyed by the Scandisk program, launched after an incorrect shutdown of the computer. Of course, in many cases running it will be unnecessary, but only specialists and experienced users can distinguish important and unimportant reasons for checking the disk. Therefore, it is better to be patient - regular disk checking eliminates many problems with the loss of important data.

Finally, we note one more important point. If you turn on your computer and suddenly decide to turn it off (or vice versa), take your time. Frequent switching on and off is very harmful to electronics, especially those running on alternating current. Therefore, be sure to wait 15 seconds between turning on and off your PC.

System operation monitoring

To see that everything is in order with your system, you need to monitor a lot of parameters of its operation. Let's mention the temperature of the processor, the rotation speed of its fan, the voltage on the motherboard, as well as other, easier to measure parameters - free space on the hard drive, processor load, RAM capacity, etc. For constant monitoring, various programs are being developed, for example the first group of parameters The MBProbe utility measures the second, and the second, no matter how trivial it may sound, is the Ctrl+Alt+Del key combination, as well as a huge number of various programs, but you shouldn’t get too carried away with them, because all these programs are “registered” in startup, which over time leads to a drop in the performance of your PC and an increase in boot time.

Find the diagnostic information screen in the BIOS. With its help, it will be easy to determine when the processor becomes “stuffy”. In order not to climb into the BIOS every day, get yourself a monitor program. It will monitor the “health” of the processor automatically. Most often, the necessary applications are supplied with the motherboard. Your participation in the work is not necessary - the program itself will notify you about critical situations.

System unit and its contents

The system unit contains: a motherboard with a processor installed on it, RAM, expansion cards (video adapter, sound card, TV tuner, etc.), in the drive bays there are hard drives, a CD-ROM drive, etc., a unit nutrition.

Processor, memory and fresh air.

Proper voltage supply and proper cooling are important for the processor to operate. The first mainly depends on the motherboard, but cooling is up to you. Once you buy a good fan and install it correctly on the processor, you can’t stop. It is necessary to regularly monitor its rotation speed and when it decreases, as well as when the average temperature of the processor increases, proceed to preventive actions. The same should be done, regardless of the sensor readings, two to three times a year.

Turn off the computer and all peripherals, disconnect it from the electrical network, local network and peripheral devices. This is a mandatory procedure in all cases when you have to operate with the computer's hardware. Carefully remove the system unit cover. If it consists of several parts, remove the left wall.

You will see a cluster of wires and expansion cards, all installed on the motherboard. Arm yourself with a cylinder of compressed air (sold in computer stores, another name is a pneumatic cleaner), or a blow-out vacuum cleaner. In a pinch, a regular home vacuum cleaner will do (in this case, you need to remove the metal tubes of its handle and install the flat attachment directly on the flexible hose), but its efficiency is low (especially under the cooler on the processor), and there is a possibility of accidentally damaging components.

As much as possible, avoiding loose wires or direct physical contact of the nozzle with the circuit boards, vacuum the inside of the system unit, paying particular attention to nooks and crannies, as well as the immediate surroundings of the processor. Place the nozzle (or a tube without nozzle) directly to the processor fan to blow out all the dust from it, as well as from the cracks of the radiator. Gently rotate the fan impeller and make sure there are no dust lumps stuck underneath it. Sometimes the insides of the system unit are favored by household insects. They need to be expelled using the same vacuum cleaner or other mechanical methods.

Attention! The use of various aerosols, liquids and powders is not allowed!

Dust in the fan leads to its damage and overheating of the processor. Therefore, cleaning is not a tribute to aesthetics, but a vital necessity.

Hard disks

The hard drive itself is sealed, securely installed in the case and therefore does not require physical maintenance. Of course, protection from shaking and overheating is important, but these issues are resolved when assembling the computer, as well as by correctly installing the system unit (more on this below). The disks themselves require periodic checking and maintenance using software. Monthly monitoring will be quite enough for a medium-loaded computer.

Checking the disk for errors. It was already discussed above, but then Windows was the initiator of the check. Sometimes, even if everything is fine with the computer, you need to service the drive yourself. Launch Scandisk for Windows (My Computer -> Disk Properties -> Maintenance -> Run Scan or Start -> Programs -> Accessories -> System Tools -> Scan Disk) and select "Full Scan", which includes not only file system control, but and searching for physical disk read/write errors. Three to five bad sectors on a disk are not a reason to panic, you just need to check the disk more often (weekly), but if their number grows every week, it’s time to buy a new hard drive.

Disk Defragmenter. This operation is a companion to the monthly error check and is performed after all errors have been eliminated. Its essence is simple - the file system is optimized for the fastest and most reliable operation. Directory tables of contents are written to the beginning of the disk, files from one directory are moved so as to be written adjacent and without fragmentation (the entire file is written to a consecutive chain of sectors on the hard drive). If you neglect defragmentation, the OS will become slower, and in case of failures it will be very difficult to restore files on the disk. This does not apply to Windows 7, because... there it is implemented automatically in the background.

Virus check. This operation, of course, does not apply to disk maintenance, but as a preventive measure it is simply necessary, especially in our Information Age. Of course, for this you need to have a full-fledged anti-virus program with regularly updated virus databases.

Checking the disk lifespan. Modern hard drives have self-diagnosis capabilities. To take advantage of these capabilities, S.M.A.R.T was developed - an industry standard for monitoring peripheral devices in normal and faulty mode. Simply put, the hard drive itself registers minor (non-dangerous) errors in operation and, based on this data, predicts how soon it will fail. To extract this information, use a special utility such as SiGuardian or HDDSpeed. Of course, you can run them daily, but in normal cases a weekly check will be sufficient. And if suddenly, when turning on, the computer begins to ask you to press the F1 key, then you need to sound the alarm, perhaps this is the S.M.A.R.T diagnostic system.

CD-ROM drives

CD-ROM drives do not require any phenomenal maintenance. When the reading quality noticeably deteriorates (depending on the intensity of use and the quality of the drive, this can be a year or three), you need to clean the optical system using a special cleaning kit (a special disk and liquid), which can be purchased at computer stores. As a preventative measure, it is wise to carry out this cleaning annually. Well, to extend the life of the drive, avoid keeping it open for a long time, check the disks before installing them in the drive and reject those that are clearly faulty (heavily scratched, uneven, with a clearly shifted center of gravity and geometric center). It would also be a good idea to wipe the discs from dust with a very soft and dry cloth. These are used for wiping glasses on glasses. “Sweet couple” - cleaning floppy disk and cleaning CD-ROM. To ensure that the disc itself lasts longer, do not bend it, carefully insert and remove it from the box and into the CD-ROM drive, and protect it from moisture, temperature changes and direct sunlight. Never grasp the working (bottom) surface of the disc, only its ribs, and do not leave the disc lying without a case.

power unit

In addition to ensuring proper power supply, this part of the system unit only needs one preventative procedure. We are talking about the dust protection that the fan needs. You can blow it out through the fan grill using compressed air or a vacuum cleaner; good power supplies have a lot of ventilation holes on the walls, usually hidden inside the system unit. In general, the procedure is similar to that done with the processor. Some things can be wiped without opening the computer. The power supply fan is also damaged by dust. All this dust accumulates inside the power supply. After opening the system unit, do not forget to blow out the power supply.

Mouse and keyboard

The mouse and keyboard carry the heaviest mechanical load of any PC part. At the same time, their refusal is the most harmless, although unpleasant. As a rule, manipulators do not fail immediately; first, some operations with their help begin to be performed unstably. Therefore, you will have time to go out and buy a new keyboard or mouse ($2 to $5). Well, to avoid this waste of time and money, pay a little attention to your keyboard and mouse. Careful operation. Of course, the keys are meant to be pressed, but that doesn't mean you have to hit them or press them into the table until they crack and squeak. It is common knowledge that the average keyboard lasts two to three times less for an avid gamer than for an average user. Further, you should not drink coffee at work, eat chips, generally crumble over the keyboard and spill liquids on it. The same applies to the mouse. By the way, it is better to use it on a special mouse pad, which is a full-fledged property of the mouse.

Weekly treatments

The least you can do is protect your equipment from dust. Regularly wipe the keyboard, mouse and mouse pad with a dry soft cloth or a special damp cleaning cloth. To remove grease from a mouse pad, you can wipe it with a cloth soaked in alcohol.

Monitor

The monitor requires minimal maintenance, but it should be done regularly - just for the sake of your vision. “Repairing” the eyes is not always possible, but it is always expensive, so it is better to spend time and money on high-quality monitors. Once or twice a week you need to thoroughly wipe the monitor from dust with a soft and dry cloth. Pay special attention to the screen - due to static electricity, it collects especially a lot of dust. This procedure must be performed with the monitor turned off, and at least 10 minutes must pass after turning off. When servicing the monitor (and other components), do not under any circumstances use polishes or other household chemicals that are not specifically intended for computer equipment. In the end, you can choose the simplest way to wipe the monitor - breathe on the glass (it will fog up slightly) and wipe it with a soft cloth. Looking at the glass from a wide angle, check for streaks and dirt.

Printer, especially inkjet

We will focus on inkjet printers, as they are the most common for home use. Like a monitor, a printer needs to be dusted off regularly, but monthly maintenance is a different matter.

Irregular setup. It is required after changing the cartridge, and also if the clarity of the prints has decreased. Most inkjet machines have an operation called head calibration. During calibration, the printer produces vertical and horizontal lines of different colors. Your task is to choose the version of the picture in which the lines are least broken at the junctions of colors. If everything is fine with the prints, regular adjustments are not needed. For your own peace of mind, it can be done once or twice a year. Almost all inkjet printers have a similar control panel. It solves most of the problems that users have.

Cleaning the heads. This operation is mandatory (especially on printers with a non-replaceable head) if you have not printed for a long time. In this case, cleaning should be done once a month. Insert a blank sheet of paper into the printer and perform the same operation in the printer control panel. This will waste a lot of ink, but the remainder will not dry out in the printer. Please note that if you only printed black and white documents, then at least the color print head needs cleaning, and vice versa. For printers with a fixed head, if the ink does dry out, soaking the head in distilled water for two to three days may help. Cleaning the broaching mechanism. Sooner or later, the drawing mechanism collects dust and begins to act up, pulling the paper poorly. When this happens (for preventive purposes - once a year), wipe the rubber rollers of the broaching mechanism with an alcohol-containing solution (for example, good vodka). Sometimes the feeding mechanism becomes contaminated with ink and begins to stain the paper. In this case, you need to take fairly loose paper and run it through the printer several times. Then take a blank sheet and run it through to make sure everything is in order.

Healthy eating

For the most reliable operation of a computer, it is advisable to protect it from voltage surges, which are often found in Russian electrical networks. The minimum option is a good voltage stabilizer. It can be distinguished from an extension cord with a light bulb by its higher price and heaviness. An even more reliable option is an uninterruptible power supply (UPS). Today they are inexpensive, household models cost from $40, but they significantly improve power characteristics and protect the computer from sudden power outages. This allows the PC owner to complete work normally, and not suddenly, thus extending the life of the computer and preserving the results of their work. UPS owners need to check their protector monthly. This is done very simply - just pull the UPS plug out of the socket and check whether the computer works for at least two to three minutes. If it works, everything is fine.

Comfortable climate

We've already talked about cooling inside the case, but what about cooling the case itself? No, it is not necessary to install a fan near the system unit, but it is very desirable to provide a bit of free space on the back and sides (at least 20-30 cm). In addition, do not place the system unit in direct sunlight or near heating devices. To protect from dust, lift the computer off the floor. Every ten centimeters plays a role - this can be easily checked by holding the computer for three to four months on the floor, and the same amount on the table. When choosing a location for the system unit, also keep in mind that it is undesirable to expose it to vibration, shaking and shock. Therefore, the table or PC stand must be stable, and the computer case itself must be protected from accidental tipping.

Do you want to buy a new mouse four times a year? Digging into the system unit every year, changing the fan and, possibly, a processor damaged by overheating? Should you buy glasses for eyes that have become sunken from daily contemplation of a dusty, poorly configured monitor? Probably all users will answer these questions decisively “no!” We'll tell you how to avoid all of the above by regularly caring for your computer.

Remember that if you are not confident in your abilities, then it is better to entrust some actions (for example, cleaning the insides of a computer) to service engineers.

Why does a computer need maintenance?

The same should be done, regardless of the sensor readings, two to three times a year.

Hard disks

The hard drive itself is sealed, securely installed in the case and therefore does not require physical maintenance. Of course, protection from shaking and overheating is important, but these issues are resolved when assembling the computer, as well as by correctly installing the system unit (more on this below). The disks themselves require periodic checking and maintenance using software: periodic defragmentation of the file system, checking for errors and cleaning the hard drive and Windows registry from unnecessary and outdated data, checking the list of automatically loaded resident programs, emptying the recycle bin and other temporary folders from unnecessary files. Monthly monitoring will be quite enough for a medium-loaded computer.

Asoftware up-to-dateness. Once every two to three months it is necessary to monitor the relevance of the software. Check the hardware manufacturer's website for new drivers and use operating system and program update tools. New versions of drivers and programs correct errors and add new features, which allows the system to operate more stable and reliable.

Checking the disk for errors. To make sure that your disks do not contain file system errors, and if they do, to eliminate them, you need to check the disks periodically or if you suspect errors. To do this, just use the Windows scan tool. Scandisk for Windows

1). IN In Explorer, right-click on the disk - Properties - Tools - Check Disk

Leave the bird on "Automatically correct errors".

2).My Computer -> Disk Properties -> Maintenance -> Run a scan :

Select the hard drive that you plan to check, for example, diskC:/ ,Next, right-click and select the item from the drop-down menu Properties". In the window that appears, select the tab Service".Next in the area “Check Disk” press the button “Run check”. After this, another window will appear where you need to specify the disk scan parameters. Place a checkmark next to all parameters and click Launch. The disk check will begin. The verification process may take some time.

If you check the disk on which the operating system is installed, it is usually the diskC:/ ,

then the verification programwill display a message,that the verification is possible only after rebooting the system and will ask whether it is necessary to confirm the verification. We boldly agree and reboot the computer. During boot, a line will appear informing the user that a disk scan has been scheduled, and, after a few seconds, the process itself will start. After the check is completed, Windows will boot as usual.

3). Start -> Programs -> Accessories -> System Tools -> Check Disk) and select “Full Scan”, which includes not only file system monitoring, but also searching for physical disk read/write errors.
Three to five bad sectors on a disk are not a reason to panic, you just need to check the disk more often (weekly), but if their number grows every week, it’s time to buy a new hard drive.

In Windows Vista and 7, the system will say that the disks are in use and the check cannot be done right now, but will offer to do it the next time the system is rebooted, you must agree. The system will check the disks and eliminate possible errors.

Disk Defragmenter. As a computer operates, a large number of files gradually accumulate on its hard drive (hard drive), each of which is not always written compactly into one area of ​​the disk, but more often than not (usually large files) occupies several non-adjacent areas on the disk. In this case they talk about fragmentation these files. If there are a large number of fragments, accessing such files requires more time to read and the system's operation slows down noticeably. Therefore, it is recommended to do it periodically forced defragmentation of the file system on all hard drive partitions.

Various programs are used for this, ranging from the built-in Windows standard means defragmentation ( In Explorer, right-click on the drive - Properties - Tools - Defragmentation ) and ending with numerous special programs from third-party manufacturers.

Defragmentation can be started in another way. On the desktop, right-click on the icon "My computer" and select the item from the drop-down menu Control".

Of the special programs I recommend to you. She really paid, but it allows you to analyze all disk partitions for the number of fragmented files, and do manual or automatic defragmentation, including on a schedule. It also has a mode IntelliWright, which prevents file fragmentation during operation. I have it enabled for all disks, and I also have automatic weekly forced defragmentation scheduled. As a result, I am confident that my disks have minimal fragmentation at any given time and do not slow down the system for this reason. You can download the program from the official website.

Among the free defragmentation programs I can recommend Piriform Defraggler. It works very quickly and, unlike other programs, allows you to defragment not only the entire disk partition, but also individual files of your choice.

Defragmentation is a companion to monthly error checking and is performed after all errors have been eliminated. Its essence is simple - the file system is optimized for the fastest and most reliable operation. Directory tables of contents are written to the beginning of the disk, files from one directory are moved so as to be written adjacent and without fragmentation (the entire file is written to a consecutive chain of sectors on the hard drive). If you neglect defragmentation, the OS will become slower, and in case of failures it will be very difficult to restore files on the disk. This does not apply to Windows 7, because... there it is implemented automatically in the background.

Disk cleaning. Need to keep an eye on it from time to time for free space on your hard drive. It is undesirable to allow the section to be filled to more than 80%. This will have a serious impact on performance. Disk cleaning aims to get rid of unnecessary and outdated data and increase free disk space. You need to review the content periodically Baskets and finally delete unnecessary files accumulated there. Available on Windows and standard remedy All Programs - Accessories - System Tools - Disk Cleanup. You select a disk, the system does an analysis and prompts you to choose which unnecessary files you want to delete. Delete unused programs and temporary files. Just don’t delete files from system folders if you don’t know what they are for.

But I advise you to use a more powerful free program Piriform CCleaner. It contains several functions. The first one is Cleaner(Cleaning) Windows systems and Applications, Windows Registry Cleaner and finally Removing unnecessary resident programs from the startup list.

If the volume of data is such that there is still not enough disk space, then it is better to purchase an additional disk with a larger capacity.

Virus check. This operation, of course, does not apply to disk maintenance, but as a preventive measure it is simply necessary, especially in our Information Age. Of course, for this you need to have a full-fledged virus database with regularly updated ones.

For critical situations, you can use free utilities and

Checking the disk lifespan. Modern hard drives have self-diagnosis capabilities. To take advantage of these capabilities, S.M.A.R.T was developed - an industry standard for monitoring peripheral devices in normal and faulty mode. Simply put, the hard drive itself registers minor (non-dangerous) errors in operation and, based on this data, predicts how soon it will fail. To extract this information, use a special utility, for example SiGuardian or HDDSpeed. Of course, you can run them daily, but in normal cases a weekly check will be sufficient. And if suddenly, when turning on, the computer begins to ask you to press the F1 key, then you need to sound the alarm, perhaps this is the S.M.A.R.T diagnostic system.

CD-ROM drives

CD-ROM drives do not require any phenomenal maintenance. When the reading quality noticeably deteriorates (depending on the intensity of use and the quality of the drive, this can be a year or three), you need to clean the optical system using a special cleaning kit (a special disk and liquid), which can be purchased at computer stores. As a preventative measure, it is wise to carry out this cleaning annually. Well, to extend the life of the drive, avoid keeping it open for a long time, check the disks before installing them in the drive and reject those that are clearly faulty (heavily scratched, uneven, with a clearly shifted center of gravity and geometric center). It would also be a good idea to wipe the discs from dust with a very soft and dry cloth. These are used for wiping glasses on glasses. "Sweet Couple" - cleaning floppy disk and cleaning CD-ROM. To ensure that the disc itself lasts longer, do not bend it, carefully insert and remove it from the box and into the CD-ROM drive, and protect it from moisture, temperature changes and direct sunlight. Never grasp the working (bottom) surface of the disc, only its ribs, and do not leave the disc lying without a case.

power unit

In addition to ensuring proper power supply, this part of the system unit only needs one preventative procedure.

We are talking about the dust protection that the fan needs. You can blow it out through the fan grill using compressed air or a vacuum cleaner; good power supplies have a lot of ventilation holes on the walls, usually hidden inside the system unit.

In general, the procedure is similar to that done with the processor. Some things can be wiped without opening the computer.

The power supply fan is also damaged by dust. All this dust accumulates inside the power supply. After opening the system unit, do not forget to blow out the power supply.

Caring for your computer involves not only cleaning the insides of dust, but also cleaning the outer surfaces of the case. Use only products intended for the care of computer equipment - microfiber cloth, special wipes (for example, cleaning products Defender) , special liquid.

Mouse and keyboard

The mouse and keyboard carry the heaviest mechanical load of any part of the PC. At the same time, their refusal is the most harmless, although unpleasant. As a rule, manipulators do not fail immediately; first, some operations with their help begin to be performed unstably. Therefore, you will have time to go out and buy a new keyboard or mouse ($2 to $5). Well, to avoid this waste of time and money, pay a little attention to your keyboard and mouse. Careful operation. Of course, the keys are meant to be pressed, but that doesn't mean you have to hit them or press them into the table until they crack and squeak. It is well known that the average An avid gamer's keyboard lives two to three times less than that of a regular user. Further, you should not drink coffee at the workplace, eat chips, generally crumble over the keyboard and spill liquids on it. The same applies to the mouse. By the way, it is better to use it on a special mouse pad, which is a full-fledged property of the mouse.

The keyboard (each key) needs to be wiped daily with a soft, slightly damp cloth (or better yet, “Universal wipes for office equipment”, same Defender) to remove dirt and fingerprints.

Most users also use a computer table as a dining table. Therefore, a lot of crumbs, dust and other debris accumulate in the keyboard. In order to get rid of them, you need to turn the keyboard over and shake it thoroughly. You can also vacuum it, preferably upside down.

Be careful not to let water come into contact with the keyboard. This also applies to tea, coffee, juices and other liquids that we love to drink near the computer.

In emergency cases (if coffee gets in, for example), it is best, of course, to wash the keyboard. True, this process is quite painstaking - you need to disassemble the entire keyboard, having first “remembered” (photographed, printed, etc.) the location of the keys on it. After immersing all the keys in soapy water (even better, water with a disinfectant diluted in it), carefully wipe the remaining base of the keyboard with a slightly damp cloth. The main thing is to never pour water on the keyboard. This can lead to its breakdown or, at best, to the fact that you will have to completely disassemble it and dry it on the battery. And this is quite a hassle, I tell you.
Rinse the keys under running clean water, let dry and reinstall.
You can do it even simpler: collect all the keys in a plastic bag, go to the bathroom, plug the sink with a stopper (so that nothing unnecessary flows down the drain), pour a little washing powder into the bag and desperately splash this pile of plastic. After a couple of minutes, carefully rinse the keys with water, dump them on a towel and dry them with a hairdryer. Those whose keys cannot be removed clean them together with the keyboard with a cloth or alcohol wipes from the store.

The mouse also needs a little cleaning. It's whatever you want! You can use cotton wool with alcohol and napkins or just a rag. It will be more difficult to break it, although you don’t need to bathe it in water either. If the mouse is mechanical, be sure to clean the ball.

If the mouse pad is dirty, wash it with soap and dry it.

Weekly treatments

The least you can do is protect your equipment from dust. Regularly wipe the keyboard, mouse and mouse pad with a dry soft cloth or a special damp cleaning cloth. To remove grease from a mouse pad, you can wipe it with a cloth soaked in alcohol.

Monitor

Make sure that the monitor screen is not exposed to bright light, be it direct sunlight or an artificial light source. If the screen is too brightly lit, you will have to adjust the brightness and contrast, making them more saturated. This, in turn, will shorten the life of the monitor and will have a negative impact on vision. Also, do not place the monitor near heat sources (such as radiators).

The monitor requires minimal maintenance, but it should be done regularly - just for the sake of your vision. “Repairing” the eyes is not always possible, but it is always expensive, so it is better to spend time and money on high-quality monitors.
Since the distance of the monitor from your face is quite small, even a minor scratch or any other defect will be clearly visible. Therefore, be extremely careful when working with the monitor. The monitor screen is wiped either with special wipes “for LCD monitors” or with a special liquid, which are sold in any IT store.
Anyway Refrain from wiping the screen with alcohol or any other flammable liquid. Some monitors have a special anti-reflective coating that can be damaged. And if you decide to wipe your LCD monitor with alcohol, then prepare for fatal consequences.

If you don’t have napkins or a special liquid, once or twice a week you need to thoroughly wipe the monitor from dust with a soft, dry cloth. Pay special attention to the screen - due to static electricity, it collects especially a lot of dust. This procedure must be performed with the monitor turned off, and at least 10 minutes must pass after turning off.

When servicing the monitor (and other components), do not under any circumstances use polishes or other household chemicals that are not specifically intended for computer equipment.

In the end, the easiest way to wipe the monitor is to breathe on the glass (it will fog up slightly) and wipe it with a soft cloth. Looking at the glass from a wide angle, check for streaks and dirt.
If the stains do not wash off, then take a soft terry cloth or a cloth for wiping glasses, moisten it with warm water and wipe the monitor thoroughly, then dry it

Printer, especially inkjet

We will focus on inkjet printers, as they are the most common for home use. Like a monitor, a printer needs to be dusted off regularly, but monthly maintenance is a different matter.

Irregular setup. It is required after changing the cartridge, and also if the clarity of the prints has decreased. Most inkjet machines have an operation called head calibration. During calibration, the printer produces vertical and horizontal lines of different colors. Your task is to choose the version of the picture in which the lines are least broken at the junctions of colors. If everything is fine with the prints, regular adjustments are not needed. For your own peace of mind, it can be done once or twice a year. Almost all inkjet printers have a similar control panel. It solves most of the problems that users have.

Cleaning the heads. This operation is mandatory (especially on printers with a non-replaceable head) if you have not printed for a long time. In this case, cleaning should be done once a month. Insert a blank sheet of paper into the printer and perform the same operation in the printer control panel. This will waste a lot of ink, but the remainder will not dry out in the printer. Please note that if you only printed black and white documents, then at least the color print head needs cleaning, and vice versa. For printers with a fixed head, if the ink does dry out, soaking the head in distilled water for two to three days may help. Cleaning the broaching mechanism. Sooner or later, the drawing mechanism collects dust and begins to act up, pulling the paper poorly. When this happens (for preventive purposes - once a year), wipe the rubber rollers of the broaching mechanism with an alcohol-containing solution (for example, good vodka). Sometimes the feeding mechanism becomes contaminated with ink and begins to stain the paper. In this case, you need to take fairly loose paper and run it through the printer several times. Then take a blank sheet and run it through to make sure everything is in order.

Healthy eating

For the most reliable operation of your computer, it is advisable to protect it from voltage surges, which are often found in Russian electrical networks: a sudden power outage can lead to the loss of all information on the hard drive.
The minimum option is a good voltage stabilizer. It can be distinguished from an extension cord with a light bulb by its higher price and heaviness.
An even more reliable option is an uninterruptible power supply (UPS, UPS) = surge protector. Today they are inexpensive, household models cost from $40, but they significantly improve power characteristics and protect the computer from sudden power outages. This allows the PC owner to complete work normally, and not suddenly, thus extending the life of the computer and preserving the results of their work. UPS owners need to check their protector monthly. This is done very simply - just unplug the UPS from the socket and check whether the computer works for at least two to three minutes. If it works, everything is fine.

An uninterruptible power supply device connected to a computer guarantees its protection from the effects of voltage surges, large overloads, and unplanned network blackouts. By using an uninterruptible power supply, you will not only extend the life of individual computer parts and keep all important documents stored in it safe, but also protect your wallet from unexpected expenses.

Comfortable climate

We've already talked about cooling inside the case, but what about cooling the case itself? No, it is not necessary to install a fan near the system unit, but it is very desirable to provide a bit of free space on the back and sides (at least 20-30 cm). All ventilation holes in the system unit and monitor housing must be open.
In addition, do not place the system unit in direct sunlight or near heating devices.
To protect from dust, lift the computer off the floor. Every ten centimeters plays a role - this can be easily checked by holding the computer for three to four months on the floor, and the same amount on the table. When choosing a location for the system unit, also keep in mind that it is undesirable to expose it to vibration, shaking and shock. Therefore, the table or PC stand must be stable, and the computer case itself must be protected from accidental tipping.

Computers are quite expensive and complex devices. Therefore, having bought a computer, you need to immediately take care of the safety of the computer, keeping it clean and tidy so that it serves you for a long time and is always in working order. Fortunately, this is not difficult to do, and in this tutorial we will provide some useful tips for caring for your computer.

To ensure that your computer always functions properly and is safe, you need to observe three things:

  1. The computer should always be kept clean;
  2. The computer must be protected from viruses and malware;
  3. You need to back up important files.

Keep your computer clean

When operating a computer, dust is not only undesirable, dust is one of the potential destroyers of small computer parts. By regularly cleaning dust from your computer, you can ensure that your computer is functioning properly and avoid costly repairs.

How to clean your keyboard?

A dirty keyboard looks untidy, and dirt can also cause the keyboard to perform poorly. Dust, food crumbs, liquid, and other debris can get stuck under the keys, causing them to malfunction.

Review the instructions for your keyboard; the manufacturer may have described the process for cleaning your keyboard. If there are instructions, just follow them. If there are no instructions, then the following tips will help you clean your keyboard and always keep it in working order:

  1. Disconnect the keyboard from the USB or PS/2 port. If the keyboard is connected to the PS/2 port, then you should first turn off the computer and then disconnect it.
  2. Turn the keyboard upside down and shake it to remove any debris or dust underneath the keys.
  3. Use a can of compressed air to clean the spaces between the keys.
  4. Dampen a cotton cloth or napkin with rubbing alcohol and wipe the keys with it. Do not pour alcohol or other liquid directly onto the keyboard.
  5. Plug in the keyboard when it is dry. If the keyboard is connected via a PS/2 port, it must be connected before turning on the computer.

Spilled liquid?

If you spill liquid on your keyboard, quickly turn off your computer, unplug the keyboard, and turn it over so the liquid can drain out. If the liquid is sticky or viscous, run the keyboard under running water to rinse it off. Then dry the keyboard for at least two days in an inverted position with the keys facing up. Unfortunately, after such an incident, the keyboard may not be recoverable. But in some cases, rinsing with water can save it. Therefore, it is best to keep drinks away from the computer.

Cleaning the mouse

There are two main types of mice: optical and mechanical. Cleaning both types of mice is similar, but mechanical mice require a little more work.

Before you start cleaning, look at the instructions for the mouse; the manufacturer may have described the cleaning process. If there are instructions, just follow them. If you don't have instructions, the following tips will help you clean your mouse.

If you want to quickly clean your mouse and restore its functionality, place it on a white blank sheet of paper and move it in different directions. Some of the dirt will remain on the paper.

Cleaning the monitor

Dust, dirt, fingerprints - all this can make reading information from the monitor difficult. Luckily, you can easily clean your monitor of dust. There are many monitor cleaning products available on the market, however, you may damage your monitor if the product is designed for a different type of monitor. For example, a glass screen cleaner may not be suitable for LCD monitors. Therefore, the safest thing to do is simply use a soft, clean cloth dampened with water.

Do not use glass cleaner when cleaning the monitor. Many screens have an anti-reflective coating that can be damaged by this type of cleaner.

  1. Turn off your computer.
  2. Turn off the monitor's power. If you have a laptop, turn it off.
  3. Use a soft, clean cloth dampened with water to wipe the screen.

Do not spray any liquids onto the screen. Liquid may get inside the monitor and damage its parts.

From time to time, you should wipe down the back of your system case and monitor to prevent dust and dirt from accumulating. Below are some helpful tips for cleaning these surfaces:

Dust is the main enemy of your computer. Use an antistatic wipe to easily remove dust from your computer. Do not use furniture cleaners or strong solvents.

Use a can of compressed air with a narrow nozzle to blow debris out of slots and crevices.

Spray a cleaning solution (diluted ammonia or glass cleaner) onto a paper towel or antistatic wipe. Wipe the surface of the monitor (NOT the screen) and the system unit.

A safe solution for cleaning computer surfaces (not the screen) is a solution of ammonia in water or a glass cleaner consisting of ammonia and water (check the label).

The computer should be in a ventilated place

Do not restrict air flow around the computer. A computer can generate a lot of heat, so it has coolers to keep it from overheating. Do not leave documents, books, or other objects around your computer.

Protecting your computer from viruses and malware

Malware is any type of program designed to harm your computer or gain unauthorized access to your personal information. This group includes viruses, worms, Trojans, spyware, etc. Most malware is distributed over the Internet, and very often bundled with other programs.

The best way to protect against malware is to install antivirus programs such as Nod32, Avast Anivirus, Dr.Web or Kaspersky. Antivirus programs help prevent malware from being installed and can also remove malware from your computer. Malicious programs are created every day, so it is important to constantly update anti-virus databases and the anti-viruses themselves. Most antivirus programs can do this automatically, but you should make sure this feature is enabled.

You also need to be careful when browsing websites or email. If a website or an attachment in an email looks suspicious, trust your intuition. Keep in mind that an antivirus can't catch all viruses, so it's best to avoid downloading anything that might contain malware.

File backup

Imagine what could happen if your computer suddenly stopped working. Will any important documents, photos or files get lost? You can take your computer in for repairs and get it working again, but your files may be lost forever. Fortunately, you can prevent this situation by backing up your files (or just your important ones) to an external hard drive or an online backup service.

You can buy an external hard drive and copy the contents of your computer to it. Creating the very first copy may take several hours, so you should choose a period of time when you will not need access to your computer. Running a backup at night is usually the best solution. The following backups should be created on a regular basis; they will not take as much time, since only the latest or updated files will be copied to the disk.

There are a lot of manufacturers of external hard drives today. For example, Western Digital, Iomega and Seagate. It is important to choose the capacity (GB memory) for your needs and choose the right hard drive for you.

This backup method has one disadvantage compared to online backup services. The external drive can be lost or damaged, just like your computer. Therefore, it is important to store it in a safe place when you are not using it.

Online backup services

You can also back up your files to one of the online backup services, such as Mozy, Carbonite or Box, so your files will always be available. The amount of file storage space provided by sites varies, and you can pay for it monthly or annually, depending on the size you need. Analyze the offers of these services, note that they are constantly changing and offer different functions.

One downside to this backup method is that creating the first backup can be slow and even take several days if you are downloading a large volume of files. However, the next copies won't take that long.

Other computer maintenance methods

In order for the computer to run smoothly, it is important that files and folders are not stored in a mess. Cluttered or unorganized folders make it difficult to find the files you need. Moreover, unnecessary files can fill up your hard drive, thereby slowing down your computer. Here are a few ways to remove junk files and improve your computer's performance:

  • Deleting files: If you have unnecessary files, you can manually delete them. To do this, move them to the Trash and then empty it. In addition, you can remove unused programs installed on your computer. To do this, use special programs. Check out our article.
  • Windows has a Disk Defragmenter program available in Control Panel. It scans files on your hard drive and rearranges them. If your computer starts to feel slower, running disk defragmenter can help increase speed. We recommend that you read: .
  • Windows also has a Disk Cleanup program available in Control Panel. She checks the computer for temporary files and other files that can be safely deleted. You can delete these files and free up disk space.

How to avoid overvoltage and damage

While monitoring the condition of your computer, it is important not to forget about your health. Using a computer involves a lot of repetitive motions, such as typing and moving the mouse. Over time, these movements can begin to negatively impact your body, especially your wrists, neck, and back. Staring at a monitor for long periods of time can cause eye fatigue. To minimize this, you need to make your workspace comfortable, convenient and safe.

Computer ergonomics. How can specific equipment placement and application reduce user discomfort and improve productivity? Some devices are designed with ergonomics in mind, such as ergonomic keyboards or ergonomic chairs.

Below are some tips to help you avoid injury in your workspace:

  • Adjust your chair: Make sure your chair is adjusted so that you are in a natural, comfortable position. Many office chairs are specifically designed to support your lower back and promote good posture.

  • Place the keyboard at a comfortable height: Try positioning your keyboard so that your wrists remain straight and relaxed to avoid wrist fatigue. Many desks have special shelves for keyboards at a suitable height. You can also buy an ergonomic keyboard that reduces strain on your wrists.
  • Place the mouse next to the keyboard: Place the mouse to the right of the keyboard. If the mouse is too far away, it will be inconvenient to constantly reach for it.
  • Place the monitor at a convenient distance: The ideal distance from the monitor to the eyes is from 0.5 to 1 m. In this case, it should be at eye level or slightly lower.
  • Avoid clutter: The space around your computer can quickly become filled with papers, computer accessories, and other items. Try to avoid clutter and you will improve your productivity.
  • Take frequent breaks: It is important to take breaks while working at the computer. To avoid eye strain, you need to periodically look away from the monitor. You can also stand up and walk a few meters to avoid sitting in one position for a long time.

A modern person certainly prefers to work with the best devices. Thanks to the computer, it is possible to perform a huge number of manipulations. So users can simply expand their range of knowledge, read news, and work with documents.

In general, with the help of devices and the connected Internet, it is possible to develop in various areas of life. Users operate devices, but many do not think about how to properly care for their computer. The duration of operation and its quality depend on this process.

Important aspects

It is strictly forbidden to move the computer unnecessarily if it is turned on. You must first turn off the desktop device. If you do not follow this simple rule, then problems may arise in the future associated with the loss of all information on the media.

If the user is working with a laptop, then it is enough to simply move the device without any sudden movements. Computer technicians do not recommend disconnecting the device you are using from the network unless there is an urgent need for this process. Even if you need to interrupt the operation of your PC for a few minutes, you should not disconnect it from the network.

If there is a need to turn off the power, then it is worth doing this. You need to turn on the device no earlier than after a minute. This condition must be met. This is due to the components of a personal computer, in which various transient processes constantly occur. The same goes for the power source.

Abuse of these processes, which consists of frequently connecting and disconnecting power, can lead to various types of failures during the operation of the device.

All openings for ventilation, of which there are a large number in the computer case, should not be covered with various objects. During operation, the monitor or system unit should be positioned in such a way that it does not block the air flow. This is important to ensure proper air circulation.

Every user needs to know that there are special devices that ensure an uninterrupted supply of the required amount of energy for the operation of the device. This makes it possible to work with the computer without failures, even if voltage surges or overloads occur.

In general, this necessary component helps not only to extend the life of individual PC parts, but also to keep all saved files and documents in perfect order. If the user does not want to use such a device, then failures may occur in the future, which may result in negative consequences - loss of files or failure of the device.

The screen of the installed PC monitor should not be exposed to sunlight, or even light from an artificial light source. If there is too much light on the screen, it will be necessary to constantly adjust parameters such as contrast and brightness. As you work, you will constantly have to make them more saturated, or reduce this parameter.

Users do not realize that such frequent manipulations ultimately lead to a reduction in the life of the monitor. They also negatively affect the user’s vision. Also, do not install the monitor near a heat source.

Proper handling of your favorite device

Each user needs to carefully monitor the operation of all elements in order to ultimately achieve excellent device performance. To prevent damage, users should avoid allowing any liquid to enter the device components. Due to carelessness, tea, water and other drinks may be spilled.

As a result, damage will occur. They can be so serious that the device simply cannot be saved even if individual parts are repaired. So it is necessary to keep various liquids away from the workplace.

You should also not eat while working at the computer. When crumbs fall into the holes between the keyboard buttons, such debris accumulates, and then it can harm the operation of the device. For this reason, the workplace should be exclusively working. And all other matters must be carried out outside the work area.

It's especially easy to damage your monitor screen. Damage to this item cannot be removed. If scratches and other damage appear, they will continue to appear on the monitor.

To remove dust, use only natural fabrics with a soft surface. Hard sponges may scratch the surface. Also, alcohol-containing liquids are not used.

To ensure the cleanliness of your personal computer, you will need to perform timely cleaning. To do this, just wipe all components with a soft cloth a couple of times a week. This applies to the monitor, system case and other elements.

Special stores sell the goods necessary for this. So users can buy specialized sponges and microfiber cloths, napkins. Only with such means should cleaning be carried out. You will also need to buy a special liquid.

The case of the system unit deserves special attention. This is where a large amount of dust accumulates. As a result, this leads to a reduction in the operation of system unit components. In the future, failures when using the computer are possible.

At least once a year, users need to completely disassemble the system unit and clean the internal components, thus getting rid of dust. This process is quite simple, so it is not necessary to turn to professionals to implement it.

The dustiness of the room in which the device is located is also important. Wet cleaning needs to be done regularly. It's a good idea to use a humidifier. If the user has sufficient funds, then special USB humidifiers can be purchased. Such devices are suitable for all those users who spend quite a lot of hours on a personal computer during the day.

Keyboard cleanliness

This component is a very important part of any desktop device, netbook or laptop. It is this object that is used more than any other when working with a computer. So a huge amount of germs, dirt, dust and other objects accumulate on the surface.

The instructions for caring for the keyboard are quite simple. Users should wipe off dust daily using a soft, slightly damp cloth. To remove debris at home, users prefer to use a vacuum cleaner. With its help, it is possible to get rid of both small and large particles.

In addition to this, you need to wash your keyboard. This process is painstaking, but it will bring excellent results. But before starting this procedure, you will need to remember exactly the location of all the keys in order to ultimately insert them into the right places. Afterwards, let the keyboard dry, and then assemble all the elements into a single structure.