With the proliferation of desktop computers in the office and at home, simple maintenance can prolong the life of your computer's critical components. The ability to diagnose and perform minor repairs can save money on costly visits to professional technicians. In spite of what you might believe, computer components are fairly simple to work with and do not require any specialized technical skill. The most common maintenance tasks can be completed in a few minutes.
Hardware
The basic components of your PC are found inside of a metal case. The case contains a power supply, main board (motherboard), hard disk, disc drive and cooling fans. The main board is a large printed circuit board that components like the central processing unit (CPU), and memory modules plug into. The main board also connects the input and output devices like your keyboard, mouse and video monitor. The keyboard and mouse may use older PS/2 style connections or USB ports. Additional ports may include networking (Ethernet), IEEE1394 (Firewire) and eSATA. Depending on the model of PC, some components may be integrated onto the main board or exist as separate cards that plug into expansion slots.
Common maintenance tasks include making sure the interior of the computer case is free from dust. Dirt and debris can impede cooling. Heat is the enemy of sensitive electronics. Routinely using compressed air to blow out dust that accumulates around cooling fans and on hard drives or the main board help keep components cool. Upgrading your PC can be easily accomplished once you understand how the components properly seat into the main board. Expansion boards, memory modules, and even the CPU are designed to be removed and replaced. Each has a unique way of connecting to the main board.
Software
For a computer to function, it requires programs to define how the hardware behaves and interacts with other programs. This collection of programs is called an operating system. Modern operating systems include diagnostic and maintenance utilities that control how memory is utilized and keep hard drives functioning efficiently. Data errors can occur on hard drives, or the data can be become arranged on the disc in a way that impedes efficient reading or writing of new data (fragmentation). Current operating systems feature utilities that allow you to correct data errors and defragment your hard disks. Run these regularly; these software utilities help your computer perform more efficiently.
Warnings
Whenever touching the delicate electronics inside a computer case, make sure you are properly grounded and always remain in contact with the computer chassis; otherwise, static electricity can build up through the natural movement of your body. The state electricity may discharge when you come in contact with the computer chassis. This discharge can cause the failure of computer components.
Repair Tutorials
For more information about accomplish specific repair and maintenance tasks, the Internet has a wealth of free instructional websites devoted to PC repair and maintenance (see "Resources").
Tags: main board, hard drives, maintenance tasks, computer case, computer chassis
