Maintaining and Troubleshooting Computer Systems Computer Technology

Computer Protection As the use of computers has grown in volume and importance, protecting computer systems and the information they hold has become increasingly important. There are 3 ways to protect your computer 1.Against theft 2.Against physical damage 3.Data Security

Protecting Against Theft Safeguards include: o Choose a secure location Don’t leave it in the front seat of your car Don’t leave unattended Lock room or building (Motion detection alarms) o Use security locks Used to anchor laptop to a fixed structure Security lock slot can be found in 99% of computers o Mark equipment with identification marks Ultra-V Pens Computer security or asset labels Record serial numbers at a separate location Theft of and damage to computers (desktop, laptop, mobile device) is a serious problem.

Protect Computer Against Physical Damage Improper Handling o Dropping: Use a padded case o Spilling: Use spill proof container or avoid food and drinks near computers Overheating o Ensure proper cooling and ventilation o Accumulation of dust and debris could damage motherboard components Humidity o Operate safely between degrees o Too much moisture can short circuit wiring and cause corrosion

Protect Computer Against Physical Damage Electrical Damage o Caused by power surges, Power fluctuations, Static electricity o Use a Surge Protector (An electrical device inserted in a power line to protect computer hardware from sudden fluctuations in power) o Do not run motors or other heavy duty equipment (copiers, air conditioners, etc.) on the same circuit as your computer!

Data Security Computer failure is the #1 reason for data loss

Protect against Data Loss Protect your data! Backup data o Flash Drive o CD’s or DVD’s o External hard drive o Cloud Password Protect o Should not be easy to guess o Keep private Prevent remote access o Firewalls o Secure wireless access Consult a professional if necessary!

Troubleshooting Common Hardware Related PC Problems Troubleshooting means to find the source of a computer problem and fix it, usually through the process of elimination Check electrical power source first Plugged in securely? Power to the surge protector? Second, check the connections of peripheral devices Make sure cables are secure Unplug and reconnect the peripherals Finally, if all else fails, restart the computer

Preventative Maintenance by User Clean the PC and peripherals o Monitor, keyboard, mouse, vents o Avoid excess liquid to ensure electronics don’t get wet o Small bits of paper, dust or other debris could cause jams or ink/toner smears on printed papers Replace or upgrade broken components o Replace ink/toner cartridges when empty o Replace peripherals Virus Scan: configure your computer to update and run a virus scan daily or at least weekly

Specialized Maintenance Some maintenance or repair should be performed by a computer professional o Replacing the power supply or opening the power supply case o Replacing other electrical components o Replacing or upgrading the processor o Replacing or upgrading the hard drive o Replacing or adding RAM (the best value for increasing processor speed) o If you are uncertain how to upgrade or repair your computer, consult a professional!

If time Permits… Watch this video clip about cleaning your computer