Originally posted on September 30, 2012 @ 11:29 pm
Laptop owners should never in their wildest dream presume that a high-cost laptop will take care of itself. No matter how expensive a new laptop is, it doesn’t have the capability to clean itself or protect itself under abusive conditions. The more expensive a laptop is, the more reason there is to take care of it.
The portability of laptops is the very reason why they tend to suffer more abuse than desk-top computers. Since they are carried around everywhere, laptops are exposed to more risks of being damaged. With a little more effort, laptops can enjoy an extended life of functionality providing much service to their owners.
Physical care is important. Laptops have to be cleaned regularly at least once a week but it needs to be done with the proper products. Regular household cleaners are too harsh to be used on laptops as most substances contain alcohol, ammonia, or acetone. A microfiber cloth is the best wiping aid to use since it will not scratch the monitor and screen unlike paper towels. Wiping in circular movements will prevent streaking.
The dirt and crumbs caught in between keyboard keys can be removed through blasting with air using a canned aerosol cleaner. A soft toothbrush can sweep the rest of the remnants left. It is not wise to place a laptop on any surface that cannot be considered even and stable. Overheating can easily result from placing a laptop on top of a soft uneven surface such as a pillow or blanket which effectively prevents airflow to the computer’s bottom.
Laptop owners should remember that it will require a few seconds for a hard drive to shut down even if the laptop has already been closed. It is best to allow some time before keeping it or transporting it. Preventing accidental spills involving laptops is important since fluids can easily affect the circuitry.