Maintaining and Troubleshooting Computer

SystemsComputer Technology

(S1 Obj 1-3)

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 computer1. Against theft2. Against physical damage3. 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

computerso 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 AgainstPhysical Damage

• Improper Handling o Dropping: Use a padded caseo Spilling: Use spill proof container or

avoid food and drinks near computers

• Overheating o Ensure proper cooling and

ventilationo Accumulation of dust and debris

could damage motherboard components

• Humidityo Operate safely between 50-90

degreeso Too much moisture can short circuit

wiring and cause corrosion

Protect Computer AgainstPhysical Damage

• Electrical Damageo Caused by power surges, Power

fluctuations, Static electricityo 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 Driveo CD’s or DVD’so External hard driveo Cloud

• Password Protecto Should not be easy to guesso Keep private

• Prevent remote accesso Firewallso Secure wireless access

• Consult a professional if necessary!

Troubleshooting CommonHardware 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 lese fails, restart the computer

Preventative Maintenanceby User

• Clean the PC and peripheralso Monitor, keyboard, mouse, ventso Avoid excess liquid to ensure electronics don’t

get weto Small bits of paper, dust or other debris could

cause jams or ink/toner smears on printed papers

• Replace or upgrade broken componentso Replace ink/toner cartridges when emptyo 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 professionalo Replacing the power supply or

opening the power supply caseo Replacing other electrical componentso Replacing or upgrading the processoro Replacing or upgrading the hard driveo 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!

http://www.gcflearnfree.org/computerbasics/14