COMPUTER TIP OF THE MONTH

By David Abernathy

There are reports that the most frequent cause of computer crashes is excessive heat build up in the computer. Particularly in the power supply. And the most likely cause of the heat buildup is the accumulation of dust in and around the cooling system of this power supply. So how do we clean/vacuum our computer?

Here are the steps that you should take.

1. Buy an aerosol can of air at Radio Shack or the equivalent.
2. Disconnect all the wiring from the computer (CPU).
3. Take the unit to the garage or driveway.
4. Check your operating manual to determine how to remove the side cover.
5. Remove the side cover of the CPU.
   
6. Look for the locking latch that holds this side cover. It will usually be on the back of the unit.
   On my computer it is the black “L” shaped latch at the top of the photo.
   
7. The power supply can easily be seen
   
   It is the big green unit. Note how the cooling fins are covered in dust. Actually there is a lot of dust in there that was not picked up in the photo.
8. Take the aerosol can and blow air into the unit. You will be surprised how much dust will be kicked up. Direct the air stream into all the nooks and crannies.
9. Replace the cover.
10. Reconnect all the cables and check for proper operation.