eMachines H3120 manual Caring for your computer, 130, Setting up a maintenance schedule

CHAPTER 12: Maintaining Your Computer www.emachines.com

Caring for your computer

To extend the life of your computer:

■When transporting your computer, we recommend that you put it in the original packaging materials.

■Keep diskettes and your computer away from magnetic fields. Magnetic fields can erase data on both diskettes and hard drives.

■Avoid subjecting your computer to extreme temperature changes.

■Keep all liquids away from your computer. When spilled onto computer components, almost any liquid can result in extremely expensive repairs that are not covered under your warranty.

■Avoid dusty or dirty work environments. Dust and dirt can clog the internal mechanisms.

■Do not block the ventilation fan.

■When storing your computer for an extended period of time, unplug AC power.

Setting up a maintenance schedule

Use the following table to set up a regular maintenance schedule.

Maintenance task	Monthl	When	See...
	y	needed
Check for viruses	X	X	page 111
Update Windows XP	X	X	page 116 and page 132
Manage hard drive space		X	page 130
Clean up hard drives	X	X	page 133
Scan hard drive for errors	X	X	page 134
Defragment hard drive	X	X	page 135
Back up files	X	X	page 136
Clean computer case and peripheral devices		X	page 130

Cleaning your computer

Keeping your computer clean and the vents free from dust helps keep your computer performing at its best. You may want to gather these items and put together a computer cleaning kit:

■A soft, lint-free cloth

■An aerosol can of air that has a narrow, straw-like extension

■Cotton swabs

■A CD or DVD drive cleaning kit

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