CHAPTER 4: Maintaining Your Computer

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

•An optical disc drive cleaning kit

Cleaning the exterior

Warning

When you shut down your computer, the power turns off, but some electrical current still flows through it. To avoid possible injury from electrical shock, unplug the power/data cord, modem cable, and network cable from the wall outlets.

•Always turn off your computer and other peripheral devices before cleaning any components.

•Use a soft, lint-free cloth to wipe dust from your computer and other parts of your system. Do not use household abrasive or solvent cleaners such as alcohol, ammonia, hexane, thinner, oils, or glass cleaner, because they can damage the finish on the acrylic covering for the computer, the mouse, the keyboard, and the remote control.

To clean fingerprints or oily blemishes, use a cloth dampened (not soaking wet) with a mild soap-and-water solution.

Caution

Do not use glass cleaner, ammonia-based, or alcohol-based cleaners, because they will damage the acrylic coatings.

•Your computer is cooled by air circulated through the vents on the bottom and top of the case, so keep the vents free of dust. With your computer turned off and unplugged, brush the dust away from the vents with a vacuum or a damp cloth.

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