Blowing the dust out of your PC

Did you know that component overheating is the number one reason for computer hardware problems? And did you also know that most overheating problems are caused by dust collecting inside your PC and restricting airflow?
 
If you want to keep your computer running smoothly, it’s a good idea to blow the dust out of it every six months or so. The process isn’t really dangerous or complicated if you follow these steps:
 
1 – Make a rough drawing that shows where the different cables plug into the back of your PC, then label the cables with masking tape to match the drawing. Most modern computers have color-coded connectors, and many of them such as USB and Ethernet connectors cannot be hooked up incorrectly.
 
2 – Turn off the computer, monitor, and everything connected to them and unplug all the cables from the PC.
 
3 – Carry the PC outside and remove the cover (refer to the owner’s manual if necessary). This is usually a very simple process.
 
4 – Using a can of compressed air (available at Wal-Mart, Best Buy, Office Dept, etc.), blow all of the loose dust from inside the PC, paying special attention to the power supply, memory card connectors, and other places where dust tends to get trapped.
 
Note: Be careful not to touch ANY internal components with your fingers or the tip of the “straw” on the can of compressed air.
 
5 – Replace the cover to the PC, carry it back inside, and then re-connect all cables using your drawing and the color coded connectors as guides.
 
6 – Turn on the computer, monitor, and everything connected to them and make sure everything works. If not, double-check the cabling.
 
That’s all there is to it! Keeping your PC’s ‘innards” free of dust will help prevent overheating from sending it to the recycling center early.
 
Note: If you simply don’t feel comfortable venturing inside your computer yourself, you can carry it into most any computer repair shop and they’ll be happy to do it for you (for a small fee of course).