How to reduce computer failures

How to reduce computer failures

Document number: 39060

Attention to good computing practices can help you avoid catastrophic computer failure, and generally enhances computer performance. Computers are a magnet to dust, dirt, tobacco residue, and other household grime. They can suck in dust from the air and major parts that need to be kept cool get coated with it. The result is overheating and poor performance, data loss, or even system breakdowns. Particularly sensitive are the monitor, the mouse, the keyboard, the power supply, and the central processor (CPU). A computer can be damaged by mishandling, accidental drops, and improper placement. Very often hardware isn't broken, it is only dirty. Your computer can also be damaged by failing to use basic protections such as surge protectors and the modem tester.

There are a number of steps you can take to keep your machine operating in peak condition.

To reduce the risks of hardware and software problems with your machine consider the following:

Put your computer on a stable base with good circulation free from dust and grime.

Do not place cables where you'll trip over them.
Avoid damp areas.

Keep your computer cool. Be careful not to block the ventilation areas of the computer.

Avoid setting up in the sun.
Place your laptop on something that will elevate it and allow air circulation underneath. A cake rake improves air circulation and helps keep your computer cool. It can also help to prop the back edge of the computer up on something such as a ruler, edge of a pad of paper or thin book. Or you can attach some self stick "feet" to lift the computer from the work surface.
Don't place your computer on soft surfaces such as a bed or seat cushion.
Even when it is off, don't leave your computer in the direct sun
Keep the computer away from heaters.
If your computer is hot (such as from being in a car trunk) don't turn it on until it has cooled to about room temperature.

Do not pick up the computer by the top or screen. Lift from the bottom. Best practice is to close your computer before moving it. Avoid moving the computer when it is running.
All laptops have some way to prevent accidentally pressing the power button. Some have a sliding cover, some have a sliding button that locks the switch, and some just locate the switch inside the cover. Use whichever system is provided to prevent damage to the battery and damage from overheating if the machine is accidentally turned on in a closed environment. For more information on maintaining your battery see document 39011 — How to increase battery life on your laptop.
Be gentle in inserting and removing cords and plugs.

If the plug comes with "ears" that can be squeezed be sure to use them when inserting and removing the plug.
Do not pick up the computer, or drag it to you by pulling on cords, dongles or other attachments.
Give the cables a little slack.
Never insert or remove cables when the computer is running.
Make sure there are no kinks in cables and cords, and that all plugs and connectors are properly seated.
Make sure you are plugging that cable into the right location.

The network cord can be either thick or thin. It is usually round, or roundish. It is usually white or grey but it can be other colors. Never plug a network cord into the modem.
The phone cord is usually flat and thin. It is usually black but it can be white or other colors. Never plug a phone cord into your network port.
Be careful not to try to plug a dongle into a cell phone port.

Use your modem tester! See documents 75081 — How to get a modem tester and 55030 — How to use your modem and modem tester properly.
Use your spike strip if you are not positive the outlet is surge protected. For information on getting a surge protector see document 75032 — How to order a JAZ drive or surge protector
Load only authorized software. Software in the Software Library is tested in the most common computing environments at PeopleSoft. Remember to make only one change to your system at a time, so if you do have problems the cause may be more quickly identified.
Be careful in your browsing and install habits. see Eureka! document 69065 — Safe computing practices
Make sure to run your back-ups regularly. Make sure by occasionally running a back-up manually. See document 11225 — Start a manual backup.
Try to avoid loading up your hard disk. As the hard disk gets close to being full it will have more difficulty allocating file space. This will slow computer performance and increase the risk of disk errors. Delete temporary and unnecessary files monthly. For tips on finding files to delete see document 39008 — How to free up some hard disk space.
Check your hard disk for errors. See the document 69029 — How to check your hard disk for bad sectors and other errors.
Defragment your hard drive regularly. See the document 10031 — How to defragment your drive.
Provide a clean operating environment.

It is best to avoid eating or drinking while working on the computer.
Since we know people will eat and drink while computing at least reduce the risks. Put the food and drink on a different table - behind you or to the side.
Have a paper towel or napkin handy to make sure your hands are clean before returning to the mouse and keyboard.
Avoid areas that are dusty, greasy or full of pet hair. Your cat may appreciate sleeping on your laptop, but your computer won't. Pet hair in the fan, power supply or other computer parts is a recipe for computer failure. The beach may be relaxing but it is full of grit that can work its way into the most sensitive innards of your machine, so keep that machine away.

Keep your computer and peripherals clean.

Turn Off your computer before cleaning any part of it.
Dust computer system and work surfaces, including under the monitor, keyboard, printer, etc. Vacuum around the work area,. Vacuum vents on the computer case and all peripherals. If you use "canned air" be sure to blow debris OUT of the computer instead of further into it. Don't use anything that could force dirt and grime into computer components. If you aren't sure, don't do it.
Do not use "window cleaner"or ammonia-based or abrasive household cleaning products on any part of your laptop computer. Never use anything on the computer display screen of your laptop unless use on LCD panels is expressly listed as safe. Follow directions carefully.
Don't spray any liquid directly on any equipment unless expressly instructed. Swabs or cloths should be only damp with the cleaning solution, not dripping.
Do not use cotton swabs to clean your computer. Use foam swabs, lint free cloths, or a clean paint brush.

Prevent computer damage or theft.

Use your cable lock, even in your office.
You are provided with a padded backpack to protect your computer. Use it. If you are wearing the backpack, instead of carrying it, you are less likely to do something truly irresponsible like forgetting that the computer is on the top of your car.
Don't check your computer as luggage, if possible. Carry it with you. Keep an eye on it at all times. If you cannot carryon your laptop ensure it is properly protected. Preferably use a commercial shipping service like Fed Ex. If you must baggage check your laptop put it in your suitcase or other rigid sided container either still in the backpack or without the backpack but well cushioned. For more details see Eureka! document 39069 — Tips and information on your laptop and airline travel.
Don't leave either the computer, or your backpack in plain sight in an unattended vehicle.
If your computer is stolen, report it as quickly as possible. See document 75077 — How to report a stolen laptop.

The above actions should reduce the risks of problems. If you still have problems there are some steps you can take to try to correct the problem. First make sure that you are using the correct equipment, and that it is properly attached and configured. See the List of Troubleshooting documents for more information. This list contains information about your peripherals and attachments as well as information on performance issues.

If you have tried all the troubleshooting steps and the problem persists then you will need to contact Technical Support Operations . You can make the problem solving more effective if you first review document 39063 — How to improve troubleshooting and problem resolution. Before you call or create your ticket see Eureka! document 69003 — What to do before calling Technical Support Operations. .