Technology has evolved significantly over the past few years. We now have more reasons to use computers in different aspects of our lives – offices, homes, classrooms, superstores, marts, etc. However, the diverse interactions with these devices also put them at risk of physical damage. The more contact we have with our computers, the more exposed they become. The exposure is even higher, considering the peculiarity of the current times.
We are spending more time on our computers
Technology has evolved significantly over the past few years. We now have more reasons to use computers in different aspects of our lives – offices, homes, classrooms, superstores, marts, etc. However, the diverse interactions with these devices also put them at risk of physical damage. The more contact we have with our computers, the more exposed they become. The exposure is even higher, considering the peculiarity of the current times.
Physical damage to your computer comes in many forms
Your devices are fragile – both desktops and laptops. Perhaps, you think desktop computers are less prone to disasters? That is incorrect! Desktop computers are also victims of physical damage. The right force – either a push from your kid or a pull by your pet – can knock it off, knock it over, break it, or even smash it. How about spills, fires, or floods? If your desktop computers can be this exposed, how much more exposed are your laptop computers? Laptop computers are at higher risk of suffering physical damage.
Signs of Phsical Damage:
- Over-heating of internal components
- Stuck power button
- Bent or stuck DVD drive
- Damaged connectors or bezels Hard drive
- Broken or cracked LCD screens
- Liquid and food spills
- Broken or fractured hinges and casing
- Impact or pressure damages
1. Keep food and liquids away from your computers
There are times you will want a cup of coffee, water, or your favorite soda while working on your computer. How about a quick snack while reading through your work brief? While these appear harmless, they put your computer at risk of a liquid or food spill. Your snacks’ crumbs can find their way underneath your keyboard, leading to problems with the circuitry. Liquid spills cause electrical failures in most cases.
What should you do?
- Don't have drinks or foods close to your computer. If you ever have to, use a cup with a cover on it!
2. Use your computers with clean hands
You will do your trackpad and keyboard a lot of good by using them with clean hands. Doing otherwise puts your computer at the risk of stains and exposure to dirt. Cleaning your hands also helps preserve the coatings damaged by sweaty palms and small particles getting dragged over the surface. Overall, it reduces the wear on your computer.
What should you do?
- Clean your hands with soap and water and wipe them dry before using your computer.
3. Protect your LCD screen
When your computer is off, ensure that your keyboard is free of rough particles or items that may harm your computer screen. If you close your laptop without removing such particles, your display may get scratched. Always shut your computer with care and while holding the lid in the middle. Be sure not to put undue pressure on your screen to prevent bending or snapping.
What should you do?
- Remove all particles from your keyboard before closing your laptop.
4. Avoid using your PC in a room where your pets are
Your cat or dog can jump on your computer screen out of excitement, leading to a cracked or broken screen. That’s not all; your pets’ fur and hair can sneak into your computer, causing problems with the internal workings.
What should you do?
- Keep your pets away from your computers.
5. Don't expose your laptop to rapid temperature changes
Always allow your laptop to acclimate to sharp changes in environment temperature before turning it on. Do not expose your computer to heat from sunlight. Rapid temperature changes can cause condensation to form inside your computer.
What should you do?
- Always leave your computer to acclimate to a new temperature before use.
6. Do not place heavy materials on your laptop
Having heavy items like textbooks, speakers, and food trays on your laptop exerts undue pressure on the lid and the screen. It may lead to a screen crack or a non-functional keyboard. It can also squish and break your CD-Drive.
What should you do?
- The top of your laptop must always be clear.
7. Clean your laptop regularly
Your cat or dog can jump on your computer screen out of excitement, leading to a cracked or broken screen. That’s not all; your pets’ fur and hair can sneak into your computer, causing problems with the internal workings.
What should you do?
- Book your copmputer in for regular hardware cleanouts (Experts can air compress the internals)
8. Avoid using your laptop on the bed
When you use your laptop on a soft surface, it forces the fans to work harder for proper cooling. Dust and debris can be pulled into the system as well.
What should you do?
- Always place your computer on a clean, flat surface. A hard surface is the best way to keep the fan unblocked and safe from dust and debris
Technology has evolved significantly over the past few years. We now have more reasons to use computers in different aspects of our lives – offices, homes, classrooms, superstores, marts, etc. However, the diverse interactions with these devices also put them at risk of physical damage. The more contact we have with our computers, the more exposed they become. The exposure is even higher, considering the peculiarity of the current times.
Think your PC might be damaged?
Book in for a computer diagnosis service with the Geeks at Geek Helpline!