The Mouse Trap
–by Janis Weber

Check out all of my archived articles from the Sylvania AdVantage HERE.

Below are suggestions to follow when cleaning any computer components or peripherals and tips to help keep a computer clean.

•Never spray or squirt any liquid onto any computer component. If a spray is needed, spray the liquid onto a cloth.

•You can use a vacuum to suck up dirt, dust, or hair around the computer. However, do not use a vacuum inside your computer as it generates static electricity that damages your computer. If you need to use a vacuum inside your computer, use a portable battery powered vacuum or try compressed air.

•When cleaning a component or the computer, turn it off before cleaning.

•Be cautious when using any cleaning solvents; some people have allergic reactions to chemicals in cleaning solvents, and some solvents can even damage the case. Try always to use water or a highly diluted solvent.

•When cleaning, be careful to not accidentally adjust any knobs or controls. Also, when cleaning the back of the computer, if anything is connected make sure not to disconnect the plugs.

•When cleaning fans, especially smaller fans, hold the fan or place something in-between the fan blades to prevent it from spinning. Spraying compressed air into a fan or cleaning a fan with a vacuum may cause damage or generate a back voltage.

Cleaning Tools

Although computer cleaning products are available, you can also use household items to clean your computer and its peripherals. Below is a listing of items you may need or want to use while cleaning your computer.

•Cloth – A cotton cloth is the best tool used when rubbing down computer components. Paper towels can be used with most hardware, but we always recommend using a cloth whenever possible. However, only use a cloth when cleaning components such as the case, a drive, mouse, and keyboard. Don’t use a cloth to clean any circuitry such as the RAM or motherboard.

•Water or rubbing alcohol – When moistening a cloth, it is best to use water or rubbing alcohol. Other solvents may be bad for the plastics used with your computer.

•Portable Vacuum – Sucking the dust, dirt, hair, cigarette particles, and other particles out of a computer can be one of the best methods of cleaning a computer. However, do not use a vacuum that plugs into the wall since it creates lots of static electricity that damages your computer.

•Cotton swabs – Cotton swabs moistened with rubbing alcohol or water are excellent tools for wiping hard to reach areas in your keyboard, mouse, and other locations.

•Foam swabs – Whenever possible, it is better to use lint-free swabs such as foam swabs.

Clean Keyboard

The computer keyboard is usually one of the most germ infected items in your home or office. A keyboard may even contain more bacteria than your toilet seat. Cleaning it helps remove any dangerous bacteria, fix or prevent stuck keys, and keeps the keyboard working properly.

Procedure: Before cleaning the keyboard, first turn off the computer or if you are using a USB keyboard unplug it from the computer. Not unplugging the keyboard can cause other computer problems as you may press keys that cause the computer to perform a task you do not want it to perform. Many people clean the keyboard by turning it upside down and shaking. A more efficient method is to use compressed air. Compressed air is pressurized air contained in a can with a very long nozzle. To clean a keyboard using compressed air, aim between the keys and blow away all the dust and debris. A vacuum cleaner can also be used, but make sure the keyboard does not have loose “pop off” keys that can be sucked up by the vacuum.

Sylvania Senior Center Classes
New classes with be held as soon as the center reopens. Check the SSC newsletter and website for the most current information. Included will be Windows 10 Computers Basics, Facebook, Microsoft Word, Google Docs and iPhone/iPad. If you have a topic and know some folks who are interested, call the Senior Center and ask for Susan Jennelle at 419-885-3913. Limited seating fills fast so call ASAP to reserve a spot. We are considering an Excel Club. Interested? Call the SSC.

I make house calls (I am vaccinated & wear a mask)
I will come to your home or office and help you with almost any predicament including repairs, upgrades and general software or hardware issues. I can be your resident “Geek.” I have an endless amount of patience and knowledge with years of experience. Give me a text or call at 419-290-3570. Do not forget to sign up for my free newsletter at OhComputerTraining.com. Subscribers will get a copy of this article plus added hints, tips, and trusted/valuable web-links.

BACK UP YOUR COMPUTER’S DATA TODAY – Critical action!
Janis Weber, B.A., owner of Ohio Computer Training & Support, is a professional computer adjunct instructor. E-mail any specific questions or comments to JwPCtutor@Gmail.com
or call her for assistance at 419-318-9112.
Private tutoring and repairs are just a phone call, text or email away.