Saturday 16 April 2011

A 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 fails, removing it is quite easy and is done by using a Philips head screwdriver. The first step is to open the case and unplug the power plug and drive cable by gently wiggling them free. If it is a newer desktop then the cables may be a bit different and are released by pushing a tab. Once power wires and cables are removed, use the screwdriver to remove the screws holding the drive and pull it free.

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.

Case fans are also easy to replace and are done with a screw driver as well, in order to replace the fan the power must be unplugged from it first. This is done by locating the wires that connect the fan and power supply. Once unplugged, use the screw driver to remove the screws holding the fan in place and take it out of the case. To install the new one, replace the screws and plug it back into the power supply then turn on the system to make sure the fan is working.

Making sure the system is properly maintained with make all the difference in the world. To do this, make a habit of using compressed air to clean out dust and debris once a month. Also in order to keep the system healthy perform regular updates and defragment the hard drive once a month as well.

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.




About the Author:



No comments: