COMPUTER SUPPORT AND MAINTENANCE NOTES

TOPIC ONE: INTRODUCTION TO COMPUTER MAINTENANCE

Definition:

Computer maintenance refers to the maintenance of computer equipment to ensure its proper
functioning. Computer maintenance keeps your computer running smoothly by performing regular tasks
such as deleting temporary files, defragmenting your hard drive, and running virus scans. On the other
hand, computer repair is fixing problems that have already occurred on your computer.

computer Hardware

Computer hardware includes the physical parts of a computer. It refers to the computer system,
especially those that form part of the central processing unit. Computer technicians should know the
basic components of computer hardware and how to work with each part, including the motherboard,
power supply, keyboard, mouse and monitor. In this article, we discuss what computer hardware is and
the basic components of it along with how computer technicians can safely troubleshoot key parts of a
personal computer.

Computer hardware includes the physical components of a computer. Personal computers (PCs) are
electronic devices that use microchips to process information and may include desktop computers,
laptops or tablets. Since a computer comprises many hardware components, they work together and
depend on each other to function properly.

What are basic components of computer hardware?

There are several basic components of computer hardware including:

1. Central processing unit (CPU)

The CPU controls the computer processes and communicates with the other components of a personal
computer. A computer's CPU may be one of the most complicated parts of the computer because of its
intricacies. If a computer is experiencing CPU issues, a computer technician may start by checking the
fan and cleaning out any dust or debris inside the machine. Another step a computer technician may
complete is verifying that power supply cables work. A CPU will not function properly unless it
receives a signal from the power supply.

2. Motherboard
The motherboard provides the structure for all other components and connects them, while also
providing a way to distribute power, deliver information and connect to devices such as a printer or
mouse. It controls how data transfers and what type of monitor or screen device to use, for example. It
houses the CPU, memory and secondary storage devices such as hard drives.

The first thing that a computer technician may do to troubleshoot any motherboard issues is to take the
PC apart and inspect all the connections for corrosion. They may also check the power supply and make
sure the computer is receiving electricity.

3. Random Access Memory (RAM)

RAM is where data lives temporarily while it's being actively used by programs, such as when a user
launches a computer application. A technician may know how to identify the type of RAM in a
computer, how to replace it if it's defective and how to diagnose problems with copying data from one
location in memory to another.

A technician should have knowledge about the different RAMs that are available and they may also
know what types of errors might affect a computer's RAM operation. A technician may backup all
computer files before fixing RAM to avoid losing critical programs and documents.

4. Video graphics array port

A video graphics array (VGA) port is a video input that is primarily used on PC monitors.
Troubleshooting a VGA port could include verifying there isn't a loose connection, faulty cable or a
broken monitor. Another task a computer technician may do is use compressed air to spray inside the
VGA port to ensure it's free of dust.

5. Power supply

A power supply provides electricity to all components of a computer system. Typically, it's a power
cord connected from the back of a PC tower into an electricity socket. A technician may troubleshoot
the power supply by turning off the computer, unplugging and detaching the power supply cord or
trying a new cord or outlet.

6. Cooling fan
Cooling fans are a computer's system to decrease overheating. Many computers have more than one
cooling fan to help users who run their computer heavily, such as video streaming or gaming. A
computer technician may need to fix a computer's cooling fan if a user notices their computer
overheating. They may check for any damage to the blades and make sure that they are free from debris.
Replacing computer fans can be a common troubleshooting solution for a technician.

7. Hard drive

Hard drives are data storage devices used to store files, programs or other information on a computer
system. They use magnetically coated discs called hard disks that store digital representations of
information. If a hard drive fails, a computer technician may suspect a corrupt hard drive. They may use
data recovery software to repair the computer or may replace the hard drive.

8. Monitor

A computer monitor is an electronic device that displays what's what programs are running on your
computer so a user can see. Some computer technicians may wear anti-static gloves when handling
computer monitors to avoid static electricity. They may also troubleshoot monitor issues by
disconnecting it from the computer and trying a new power cord.

9. Printer

This is a machine that produces copies of text or images on paper using ink. Popular printers include
laser or inkjet and computer technicians may be skilled in troubleshooting issues across multiple brands
and varieties. Computer technicians may service printers including verifying power is running to the
machine. They may also check to see if the paper tray is full and ready for printing. Technicians might
replace or refill any ink cartridges and toner.

If the physical printer components are operating efficiently but the machine still isn't working, a
technician will then troubleshoot software malfunctions that may occur in the communication between
the computer and the printer. This requires more expertise to fix since it involves how the systems
interact with each other rather than physical component failures on the printer itself.

10. Scanner

A scanner is a device that digitally copies an image or and makes it available as a file for access on a
computer. If a scanner malfunctions, a computer technician may remove the cover and carefully check
if it has any damage. If there are no visible issues, then they may check the power connection cable.
Similar to a printer, there is computer software that connects the scanner to the computer, so a
technician will also verify that the software is communicating to the scanner.

11. Computer mouse

A computer mouse can have a wire or is wireless and is an input device used to control a cursor on the
computer monitor. A wired computer mouse has a cord that connects to a USB port on a computer
while a wireless mouse has no physical connection with a computer system. Instead, a wireless mouse
communicates using an adapter that is usually plugged into an available USB port and runs off its own
batteries using Bluetooth technology.

Computer technicians may troubleshoot computer mouse issues by ensuring it's connected properly if it
has a wire. If the mouse is wireless, a technician can look to see if they need batteries and that the
wireless connection is working. Computer technicians can clean both wired and wireless with cloths to
ensure there is no dust or debris on the sensor on the bottom of a mouse. If there is, the mouse may not
operate correctly.
COMPUTER SAFETY

Ergonomic Tips for Computer Users

Prolonged use of a computer keyboard and/or mouse can lead to frequent muscle aches and nerve pain
unless a few guidelines are followed. You can work more comfortably and safely if you incorporate the
following ergonomic tips into your work style:

Posture and Positioning

 Maintain good posture when working at the keyboard. Utilize a chair with back support.
 Keep your feet supported on the floor or on a footrest when you work to reduce pressure on your
lower back
 Avoid twisting or bending your trunk or neck. Frequently used items should be positioned
directly in front of you and angled upward on a copyholder when working.
 Keep your shoulders relaxed with your elbows close to your sides.
 Avoid resting your elbows on the hard surface or edge of your table. Pads can be used to protect
your elbows if necessary.
 Elbows should be positioned at 100 to 110 degrees when working in order to keep a relaxed
position at the keyboard. This could require a slight negative tilt (front of keyboard higher than
back) when working in upright positions. If reclined in your chair, the keyboard could be at a
positive angle to maintain this relaxed position.
 Your wrists should be in a neutral or straight position when keying or using a pointing device or
calculator. Wrist rests can assist you in maintaining a neutral position when used properly during
pauses. Float your arms above the keyboard and wrist rest when keying. Avoid planting your
wrists on the table or wrist rest. This can result in bending the wrists either up and down or side
to side.
 Take breaks. These breaks can be brief and should include stretches for optimal results. If
possible, take a one or two-minute break every 15 to 20 minutes, or a five-minute break every
hour. Every few hours, get up, move around, and do an alternative activity.
Work Technique

 Reduce keystrokes with the use of macros or software programs allowing "sticky keys." Use
scroll locks and keystroke combinations to reduce pointing-device movements.
 Alternate tasks to make changes in your working position to avoid making the same movements
for prolonged periods of time.
 Keep your fingers and knuckles relaxed when working at the keyboard.
 Never hold a pen or pencil in your hand when keying.
 Avoid hitting the keyboard with excessive force. Studies have shown that the average user hits
the keyboard with four times the required force when keying.
 Avoid holding your pointing device tightly. Your hand should be relaxed.
 Rest your eyes by refocusing on distant objects intermittently when working.

Work Environment

 Avoid excessive reaching. Your keyboard, pointing device, files and telephone should be within
easy reach.
 Use a keyboard tray to properly position your keyboard and pointing device.
 Use a copyholder positioned in line with your monitor and keyboard.
 When writing at the computer, avoid excessive reaching over the keyboard or work materials. A
sturdy in-line copyholder can double as a writing surface if appropriately positioned.
 Position the monitor so that the viewed part of the screen allows you to keep your neck in a
neutral or straight position. The monitor should be centered directly in front of you. The top of
the computer screen should be slightly below the top of your head, so that you are looking at it
with a slightly downward gaze.
 Position your monitor to eliminate excessive glare or reflections from windows and lighting.
 Customize your computer by using your software. The screen font, contrast, pointer size, speed,
and color can all be adjusted to maximize your comfort and efficiency.
Lifestyle

 Aerobic exercise will help to sustain strength, improve cardiovascular conditioning, and
counteract the strain of sedentary computer use.
 Routine use of non-prescribed medications or a wrist brace is not recommended. If you begin to
develop symptoms, notify your supervisor. Slight changes made early can avoid future
complications.