PC Hardware

Lesson Summary: Maintaining Computer Hardware

The following points summarize the main elements of this lesson:

  • Electrical safety is your responsibility-know what is dangerous and how to be safe.

  • Beware of potential ESD problems, and maintain good electrical grounds.

  • Know where your fire extinguishers are and how to use them.

  • If in doubt about particular chemicals, ask the vendor for the MSDS and be sure to read it.

  • Choose chemicals that are safe for the environment.


Tutorial Summary

The following points summarize the key concepts in this tutorial:

Preventive Maintenance

  • The life of computer hardware can be extended through preventive maintenance. Implementation of a scheduled preventive maintenance program is recommended.

  • The most important preventive maintenance procedure is periodic cleaning.

  • A computer technician should include a simple cleaning kit along with other tools.

Safety and the Environment

  • Know your fire extinguishers and how to use them.

  • Be sure you know how to properly use and dispose of any chemicals required in your workplace.

  • Be aware of possible electrical hazards and take appropriate steps to reduce risk of shock.


Review

  1. What items should be included in a cleaning kit?

  2. Why is ESD dangerous to computers?

  3. Will a properly grounded computer help prevent EMI?

  4. Describe some safety precautions you can take to protect yourself from high voltage when working on a computer.

  5. What type of fire extinguisher is used for an electrical fire?

  6. How do you clean a keyboard?

  7. How do you clean a laser printer?

  8. Give one example of a recyclable item that requires special disposal.

  9. Why is a toner cartridge easy to recycle?

  10. What is a material safety data sheet?