What is maintenance in computers?

-computer maintenance is the practice of keeping computer in a good state of repair.

There are four types of computer maintenance

 Predictive
 Preventive
 Corrective
 Evolutionary

1. Predictive

This diagnostic tool help to prevent possible problems with the computer. The diagnostic
tools monitor computer systems and check, whether the functioning is normal. For
example, such tools control and inform you about the temperature of the CPU, battery
levels, and many other features

2. Preventive

This type is used to prevent possible failures, improve the functioning of a system and
lengthen the life of various components in the computer. The benefits of this type of
maintenance are that it allows to notice weak points in the system and lead to a lesser
amount of repairs.
Preventive maintenance of software includes the creation of the backups, the freeing-up
of hard disk space and RAM (random access memory), scanning and cleaning through
antivirus.
Types of preventive maintenance

Passive preventive maintenance includes steps you can take to protect a system from
the environment, such as using power-protection devices; ensuring a clean, temperature-
controlled environment; and preventing excessive vibration. In other words, passive
preventive maintenance means treating your system well.
 An active preventive maintenance program includes procedures that promote a longer,
trouble-free life for your laptop. This type of preventive maintenance primarily involves
the periodic cleaning of the system and its components. The following sections describe
both passive and active preventive maintenance procedures.

3. Corrective

-If the preventive and predictive maintenance didn’t work and a problem with the
computer occurred, it’s time to turn to corrective maintenance.
-This type of maintenance tries to find out what caused the problem and fix it and if the
problem persist you are advised to use the services of a professional. For example
If the operating system failed and we want it to work again in the same condition, we
apply the necessary measures, depending on the case, and use the PC.

4. Evolutionary

This type aims to develop the computer system so that it performs more efficiently.
This type of support concerns both software and hardware. Thus, there is need to update
the system and also change various parts of the computer, if needed, for better
performance

Basics of Computer Hardware:

A Computer is an electronic device that has two essential parts including hardware and software
to perform various operations. Software is set of instructions written in a chip to run a hardware
device on the Computer. Hardware is a physical component that is attached to the computer
system .There are different types and models of hardware components being manufactured by
big companies available in the market.

Definition of Hardware:
  Hardware is the collection of physical parts of a Computer system.

Hardware Components:

The most essential hardware components are Motherboard, CPU, RAM memory, IO system,
power supply, video display controller, Bus and hard disk drive. Some of the normal
hardware parts you see like a mouse, keyboard, monitor and CPU are the basic components of
a computer. But inside the CPU box there is hard disk, motherboard, and RAM, video card,
CPU Fan, sound card, server components, CD/DVD drive and many more.
 PC Maintenance Tools

 To troubleshoot and repair PC systems properly, you need a few basic tools. If you intend
to troubleshoot and repair PCs professionally, there are many more specialized tools you
will want to purchase. These advanced tools enable you to more accurately diagnose
problems and make jobs easier and faster. Here are the basic tools that should be in every
troubleshooter’s toolbox:

 Simple hand tools for basic disassembly and reassembly procedures

 Diagnostics software
 A multimeter
 Chemicals (such as contact cleaners), component freeze sprays, and compressed air for cleaning
the system
 Foam swabs, or lint-free cotton swabs if foam isn’t available
 Small nylon wire ties for “dressing” or organizing wires
Some environments also might have the resources to purchase the following devices, although
they’re not required for most work:

 Memory module tester

 Serial and parallel loopback (or wrap) plugs to test serial and parallel ports
 A USB testing plug to test USB ports
 A network cable scanner (if you work with networked PCs)
 A POST card

Computer Maintenance Tools

To troubleshoot and repair PC systems properly, you need a few basic tools. If you intend to
troubleshoot and repair PCs professionally, there are many more specialized tools you will want
to purchase. These advanced tools enable you to more accurately diagnose problems and make
jobs easier and faster. Here are the basic tools that should be in every troubleshooter’s toolbox:

 Simple hand tools for basic disassembly and reassembly procedures

 Diagnostics software
 A multi-meter
 Chemicals (such as contact cleaners), component freeze sprays, and compressed air for cleaning
the system
 Foam swabs, or lint-free cotton swabs if foam isn’t available
 Small nylon wire ties for “dressing” or organizing wires
Some environments also might have the resources to purchase the following devices, although
they’re not required for most work:

 Memory module tester

 Serial and parallel loopback (or wrap) plugs to test serial and parallel ports
 A USB testing plug to test USB ports
 A network cable scanner (if you work with networked PCs)
 A POST card

Computer Cleaning Products

computer cleaning products are substances and tools used to remove dirt, dust, and stains
from PC equipment such as keyboards and monitors screens. They are also used for the purpose
of removing offensive odour and avoiding the spread of dirt and contaminants on your computer.

Although a vast majority of computer cleaning products claim to be best. However, the overall
cleaning results can be enhanced when suitable cleaning equipment is used alongside.

Caution: Refer to your computer manufacturer guidelines when choosing a cleaning product.

Types

Some cleaning products are specially designed to kill bacteria however others, called degreasers,
contain organic solvents to help dissolve oils and fats.

Computer Cleaning Products In Summary

Some examples of cleaning products that are in high demand in the computer market today are
the following:

1. Screen Cleaners (Also know as Screen Cleaning Solutions)

Screen cleaners are basically used for removing dirt, fingerprints, and dust. As a matter of fact, a
good quality screen cleaner can be used for multipurpose cleaning i.e. PC, TV, Smartphone, and
similarly for other kinds of LCD and plasma screens. Remember the general glass
cleaners have anti-glare coatings, therefore, can damage the monitor screen.

Usage

Before applying the solution, wipe the access dist off the screen with a help of a clean dry cloth.
Instead of spring directly on the screen, us a clean cloth moistened with water.

2. Air Duster (Also Called Compressed Can/Gas)

Gas duster, also known as canned air or air dusters, is a product used for cleaning or dusting
electronic equipment computer and other sensitive devices that cannot be cleaned using water.
Air dusters are ideal for removing dust, dirt and crumbs from sensitive equipment such as
computer devices and hard to reach areas.

Usage

When using canned air, it is recommended to not hold the can upside down, as this can result in
spraying liquid on to the surface.

3. Cleaning Gel (Also Called Silica Gel)

Silica gel is generally used to catches dirt and kills germs on computer keyboards, mobile
phones, telephones, and mouse. It also the property to absorbs dirt and dust.

Usage

For best cleaning results apply it lightly and equally on the keyboard, leave it for few munites
and then remove it gently to lift the putty along with the dirt.

4. Vacuum Cleaners (Coupled With Cleaning Brushes)

Computer vacuum cleaners and brushes are particularly helpful tools to extract dirt and dust from
the keyboard and hidden parts of the computer. The general household vacuum cleaners can be
dangerous for the circuit board of a computer unless they have antistatic safety features.

5. Microfiber Cleaning Cloths