Sunday 17 April 2011

A DIY Guide To Hardware Computer Repair And Periodic Maintenance

By Adriana Noton


Performing hardware computer repair and periodic maintenance is a sure way to keep a PC running smooth for years. The methods involved in this process include cleaning the system, replacing any parts that fail and creating a routine to provide upkeep on a regular basis. Some of the components that can fail include memory, hard drives, video cards, motherboards and case fans.

If properly maintained the internal components in a system can last for quite some time and will operate at peak performance. In order to properly maintain a system hard drive is to regularly defragment it using tools provided in the operating system. Also setting up a schedule for cleaning will help the device to live longer.

Before any repairs are made the number one rule is to always unplug the power cord from the back of the system. One of the simplest parts to replace is the memory module, to do this the case needs to be opened. The memory is secured by two clips one on each end of the module and are released by applying pressure in downward motion, once released the module can be removed.

If a hard drive decides to fail, removing it is a simple task and includes removing the wires and cables from the rear of the drive. Next remove the screws holding the drive in place by using a screw driver. Once the screws are removed the drive is ready to be removed, replacing it involves reversing the removal steps.

Motherboard replacements are a bit tricky and should be done by personnel that have experience in this field. If it is a video card that fails the procedure is to again open the case and remove the screw holding the card in place. If the card is an AGP model it will have a release clip at the rear of the card itself, push the clip or pull it and the card will come free.

Fans are bound to fail at one point or another and can be replaced very easily by removing four screws holding them in place. This is done after the power plug is disconnected in order to make sure there are no issues with power. When it comes to installing them the process is reversed and the screws are installed first then the power is plugged in.

To properly keep a PC maintained it is crucial to clean out any dust and debris at least one time every month. This will help to ensure the system does not overheat and the components will be able to work properly. Another trick is to keep the hard drive free of viruses and spyware, to do this a person can download programs that will run automatic scans on a hourly, daily, weekly and monthly basis.

Keeping up to date on hardware Computer repair and periodic maintenance is sure to help the system stay running in top condition. A PC is like a car and requires routine checkups and routine steps to properly maintain the working parts. Putting time and effort into processes such as these will help the PC to continue running the best it can.




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