Between the Keys

The CPU case is a compact piece of equipment. It houses all the components and circuits that make the PC what it is, and it does so in style. But dust, it gets everywhere. In due time, you’ll find dust collecting in between the keys on your keyboard, on the computer screen, along the wires that connects everything, on the mouse, on the hard disk, even on the motherboard! What should you do? You clean.

Here are some computer cleaning tips:

• Never squirt or spray liquid directly on the computer—or any computer component, for that matter. If a stain persists and a spray is necessary, spray the liquid onto a piece of dry cloth and use that to dab at the stain.
• You can use a vacuum to get at the dust and hairs that accumulate in hard-to-reach areas. For the CPU, use a battery-powered vacuum for this job. Never use a regular vacuum as it generates a lot of static energy which is, in basic terms, not good for the inside of the CPU.
• Always turn the PC off before you clean. This important tip must be observed at all times.

You can own a PC and go through all the trouble of cleaning and maintaining it, or you can throw it out the window and make do with Post It notes and snail mail. It’s your choice! Don’t waste time and money on anti-malware programs, but not spray cleaners - you need to keep your computer clean from the inside out. Brush up on your PC cleaning skills because you’ll definitely be needing them when your monitor is so dusty you can’t read tips like these online.