In a previous article, I detailed in full how one could go about keeping their computer in top shape. What I didn’t mention, however, was that there are a few tools that’ll make the job all that much easier. Here’s a few tools and supplies that any PC enthusiast worth his salt should never go without.
Compressed Air
If you’re looking to keep your PC clear of dust (and, as a result, running at a comfortable, healthy temperature), compressed air is the way to go. They sell them at most stores which stock PC hardware, and you can find them on Amazon for a pretty reasonable price - $30 for a pack of six, with each can lasting several months, at the very least.
Just be sure you read the instructions before using one. It can be tempting to shake up the can before use, but don’t- doing so could cause it to emit a blast of liquid nitrogen instead of compressed air (same deal with using it while tilted). I needn’t say what that’ll do to your PC.
Oh, and one last thing? It’s generally a good idea to avoid using the duster on your system while it’s running. It probably won’t damage anything, but hey- better safe than sorry, right?
Screwdrivers and Other Hardware
This is mostly for those of you who want to pop open your system to replace (or attempt to repair) hardware. Generally, you’re going to need a flathead screwdriver, a phillips screwdriver, and a Torx T15 screwdriver. Honestly, this one’s tricky- it depends on what make and model of PC you’re using.
My recommendation would be to shop around, and you’ll probably be able to find a full set which is comprised of every screwdriver you’ll ever need. Alternatively, Belkin’s got a rather excellent PC repair kit that retails for around $30.00, which contains pliers, as well.
Screen Cleaner
It’s cheap, it’s easy to use, and it’s a better alternative than, say, soap and water. Since most systems now use LCD screens, picking up some screen cleaner for when they start to get especially grimy is a must. If you’re using one of the older CRT monitors, then a bit of water on a soft cloth will likely do just fine.
Static Grounding Bracelet or Static Bags
These are downright vital if you’re going to be opening up your system for…well, anything. Even the smallest shock can completely bork a piece of computer hardware (they are, after all, very delicate machines). You can either grab a static bracelet, or a bunch of anti-static bags. Either one works for your purposes.
The Software
This is nothing I’ve not told you before. Make sure you’ve got reliable antivirus and anti-spyware applications, as well as a decent registry cleaner.
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Maybe also a digital multimeter for so you know the rail voltages with certainty?
Good article but just one correction. The compressed air duster cans actually have a refrigerant in them (152a, cas# 75-37-6, “Dymel”) along with a bitterant to discourage huffing. It’s compressed into a liquid in the can, which is why it comes out as a frost looking liquid when you turn the can upside down or shake it while dispensing it. All gasses and liquids are classified as refrigerants (including nitrogen) but the one in the cans is supposed to be a “safe refrigerant” for release into the atmosphere, unlike the stuff used in your cars or houses or so were told anyway.
Also, I tend to just rest my wrists on the case while poking around in it while the case is laying flat on a desk instead of using a static strap. Either way will work though.
Bork, bork, bork; good word, I wonder if it has any synonyms?