Computer Care & Maintenance Best Practices

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Questions and Answers

What is the first step you should take before cleaning your computer equipment?

Disconnect all peripherals

Use a cleaning agent

Power down and disconnect the device (correct)

Remove the dust cover

Why is it important to avoid exposing your computer to excessive dust?

It can interfere with the functionality of the circuitry (correct)

It can cause the outside casing to rust

It may lead to a hardware warranty void

It changes the color of the components

What should you do with USB drives or DVDs that have been previously used on outside computers?

Avoid them as they may contain viruses (correct)

Store them in a separate drawer

Use them only if they are wiped clean

Solely use them if they are from a trusted source

What is a recommended method to clean a mouse and keyboard?

Wipe them with a damp cloth and use compressed air Signup and view all the answers

What could happen if you were to pile objects on top of your computer keyboard?

It may damage the keys due to the weight Signup and view all the answers

Which action is strongly discouraged in a computer lab to prevent hazards?

Eating or drinking near computers Signup and view all the answers

Why should you not install software without your teacher's permission?

Unauthorized installations may introduce malware Signup and view all the answers

What should be ensured before printing documents?

That printing is reviewed for necessity Signup and view all the answers

What is the recommended method for cleaning a computer monitor?

Dampen a microfiber cloth with a little water Signup and view all the answers

What should you avoid using on your monitor to prevent damage?

Window cleaner sprays Signup and view all the answers

What is a safe practice for organizing cords and cables?

Cable ties to keep them neat Signup and view all the answers

How should one manage laptop battery charging to prolong its lifespan?

Plug in the laptop when it reaches 20% charge. Signup and view all the answers

What could obstruct airflow around a computer and lead to overheating?

Covering air vents with papers or other objects Signup and view all the answers

What is the correct procedure to shut down a computer?

Use the shutdown option in the operating system. Signup and view all the answers

What environmental practice should be followed regarding printing?

Only print when necessary to save paper. Signup and view all the answers

What is the recommended action when disposing of electronic devices?

Take them to a designated electronic waste disposal site. Signup and view all the answers

What should be avoided to protect digital devices from damage?

Overcharging laptop batteries. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Computer Care & Maintenance

Power Down & Disconnect Devices before Cleaning: Always power down and disconnect devices before cleaning to prevent damage.
Proper Shutdown: Utilize the on-screen procedure for shutting down your computer instead of directly using the power button.
Dust Prevention: Cover your computer with a dust cover when not in use to minimize dust accumulation, which can affect circuitry.

Using Storage Devices

Avoid External USB Drives, CDs & DVDs: These devices can carry viruses that may harm your computer.
Virus Definition: A virus is a piece of software that can cause computer malfunctions.

General Computer Usage Practices

Keyboard Protection: Do not place objects on top of the keyboard as their weight can damage the keys.
Moving Computers: Do not move a computer while it is switched on and operational.
Food & Drink Precautions: Refrain from eating or drinking in the computer lab as liquid spills can cause short circuits and food crumbs can lead to malfunctions.
Software Installation: Do not install software without your teacher's permission.
Printing Wisely: Print only what is truly necessary, as paper and printer cartridges are expensive.

Cleaning Peripherals

Mouse & Keyboard Cleaning: Wipe down with a lint-free damp cloth. Use a can of compressed air to remove dust particles. Avoid using chemicals or cleaning agents.
Monitor Cleaning: Utilize a soft, dry, lint-free microfiber cloth or a slightly dampened one, ensuring it's wrung out thoroughly.
Avoid Abrasives: Never use alcohol, ammonia based cleaners, or paper towels on the monitor screen as they can damage the anti-reflective coating.
Screen Cleaning Precautions: Do not spray water directly onto the screen to avoid potential damage to internal components.
Printers, Scanners, Projectors & Peripherals: Clean with a soft, dry, lint-free microfiber cloth or a slightly dampened one, wrung out thoroughly.

Cord and Cable Management

Cable Organization: Use cable ties to keep cords and cables organized to prevent damage from twisting or tugging, improve aesthetics, and minimize safety hazards.
Avoid Overloading Outlets: Do not overload power outlets or power strips with too many devices to prevent fire hazards.

Battery Care

Avoid Overcharging: Do not leave laptop batteries plugged in all the time to prevent reduced lifespan and battery damage.
Optimal Battery Charging: Wait until your laptop reaches a 20% charge before plugging it in for a full recharge.

Air Flow & Overheating

Keeping Vents Clear: Ensure computer vents are free from obstructions to facilitate proper airflow and prevent overheating.
Laptops and Airflow: Avoid placing laptops on soft surfaces like beds or laps as this restricts airflow.

Shutting Down Your Computer

Correct Shutdown: Shut down your computer properly each night to save energy and allow Microsoft updates to install on Windows computers.
Avoid Cold Booting: Do not hold down the power button to shut down your computer as this can damage hardware and software.

Environmental Responsibility

Reduce Printing: Only print information when absolutely necessary to minimize paper waste.
Conserve Energy: Turn off devices when not in use to reduce electricity consumption.
Proper Electronic Waste Disposal: Dispose of computers and electronic devices at designated recycling centers for safe extraction of hazardous materials.

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Description

Test your knowledge on essential computer care and maintenance practices. This quiz covers proper shutdown procedures, storage device safety, and general usage practices to ensure your devices remain functional and protected. Ideal for beginners and anyone looking to enhance their technical skills.