Preventive Maintenance

Intro

Last month we talked a little bit about things you could try, to help increase the speed and overall efficiency of your computer, and decrease the number of errors it spits back at you. If you missed last month's NewsLettter, click here!

The NewsLetter was overly long, and had to be sent out in two separate mailings. And yet, this was the first time in 4 or 5 months that I haven't received an email saying that my NewsLetter was too lengthy. As I start this one, I promise to keep it shorter. (of course, you've heard that before).

Our focus last month was on software settings, Windows configurations, driver upgrades and maintenance utilities. This month we are going to continue on with the same goal in mind, but we'll look at some of the physical aspects of preventive maintenance on your computer.

One thing we will be doing this month is opening up that case for a visual inspection and cleaning. For you computer geeks out there, this doesn't present any kind of a problem. Some people, however, may think its going to be a little intimidating -- Not at all, don't sweat it!

You don't have to be a technician, or an expert, or even a weekend geek. As long as you can follow instructions, and understand a few simple precautions, there's nothing in this month's NewLetter that can't be done by everyone. You may even learn something about your computer.

If you're completely at a loss as to what might be inside your case, check out the
"What's Inside?" section of PC ComputerNotes' Website.

One thing you should definitely be aware of, is ElectroStatic Discharge. At the very least, understand and utilize your ESD precautions when opening up the case. For more information on ESD, click here!

So, allow yourself plenty of time (an hour or two, there's no rush), get yourself a phillips screwdriver, and let's have a look.

Return To February's Title Page