Use a pre-moistened germicidal wipe to clean the sides and cover. Fibrous materials, such as paper towels, can scratch the computer.

NOTE: When cleaning the cover of the computer, use a circular motion to aid in removing dirt and debris.

Cleaning the TouchPad and keyboard

CAUTION: Never allow liquids to drip between the keys on the keyboard, even when you are cleaning the computer. This can permanently damage internal components.

To clean and disinfect the TouchPad and keyboard, use a soft microfiber cloth or a static-free cloth without oil (such as a chamois cloth) moistened with an alcohol-freeglass cleaner or use an acceptable germicidal disposable wipe.

To prevent keys from sticking and to remove dust, lint, and particles from the keyboard, use a can of compressed air with a straw extension.

WARNING! To reduce the risk of electric shock or damage to internal components, do not use a vacuum cleaner attachment to clean the keyboard. A vacuum cleaner can deposit household debris on the keyboard surface.

Traveling with or shipping your computer

If you have to travel with or ship your computer, here are some tips to keep in mind to keep your equipment safe.

Prepare the computer for traveling or shipping:

Back up your information to an external drive.

Remove all discs and all external media cards, such as digital storage cards, from the computer.

Turn off, and then disconnect all external devices.

Shut down the computer.

Take along a backup of your information. Keep the backup separate from the computer.

When traveling by air, carry the computer as hand luggage; do not check it in with the rest of your luggage.

CAUTION: Avoid exposing a drive to magnetic fields. Security devices with magnetic fields include airport walk-through devices and security wands. Airport conveyer belts and similar security devices that check carry-on baggage use X-rays instead of magnetism and do not damage drives.

If you plan to use the computer during a flight, listen for the in-flight announcement that tells you when you are allowed to use your computer. In-flight computer use is at the discretion of the airline.

If you are shipping the computer or a drive, use suitable protective packaging and label the package “FRAGILE.”

If the computer has a wireless device installed, the use of these devices may be restricted in some environments. Such restrictions may apply onboard aircraft, in hospitals, near explosives,

56 Chapter 8 Maintaining your computer