CompTech 122 Topic 3. Safety Laboratory Procedures and Tools Use
CompTech 122 Topic 3. Safety Laboratory Procedures and Tools Use
CAUTION: Some printer parts may become very hot when in use and
other parts may contain very high voltages. Make sure that the printer
has had time to cool before making the repair. Check the printer manual
for locations of various components that may contain high voltages.
Some components may retain high voltages even after the printer is
turned off.
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FIRE SAFETY GUIDELINES
Follow fire safety guidelines to protect lives, structures, and equipment. To avoid an electrical shock,
and to prevent damage to the computer, turn off and unplug the computer before beginning a repair.
Fire can spread rapidly and be very costly. Proper use of a fire extinguisher can prevent a small fire
from getting out of control. When working with computer components, always consider the
possibility of an accidental fire and know how to react.
Fire Extinguisher
Be sure to locate and read the instructions on the fire extinguishers in your workplace before you have to use them. Safety training
may be available in your organization. In the United States, there are four classifications
for fire extinguishers. A different letter, color, and shape identify each fire extinguisher.
Each type of fire extinguisher has specific chemicals to fight different types of fires:
• Class A – Paper, wood, plastics, cardboard
• Class B – Gasoline, kerosene, organic solvents
• Class C – Electrical equipment
• Class D – Combustible metals
• Class K – Commercial Cooking Equipment
PASS
What types of fire extinguisher classifications are there in your country?
It is important to know how to use a fire extinguisher. Use the memory aid P-A-S-S to help
you remember the basic rules of fire extinguisher operation:
SAFETY PROCEDURES TO PROTECT EQUIPMENT FROM DAMAGE AND DATA FROM LOSS
Electrostatic discharge (ESD), harsh climates, and poor-quality sources of electricity can cause damage to computer equipment.
Follow proper handling guidelines, be aware of environmental issues, and use equipment that stabilizes power to prevent
equipment damage and data loss.
ESD
Static electricity is the buildup of an electric charge resting on a surface. This buildup may zap a component and cause damage. This is
known as electrostatic discharge (ESD). ESD can be destructive to the electronics in a computer system.
At least 3,000 volts of static electricity must build up before a person can feel ESD. For example, static electricity can build up on you
as they walk across a carpeted floor. When you touch another person, you both receive a shock. If the discharge causes pain or makes
a noise, the charge was probably above 10,000 volts. By comparison, less than 30 volts of static electricity can damage a computer
component.
ESD Protection Recommendations
ESD can cause permanent damage to electrical components. Follow these recommendations to help prevent ESD damage:
• Keep all components in antistatic bags until you are ready to install them.
• Use grounded mats on workbenches.
• Use grounded floor mats in work areas.
• Use antistatic wrist straps when working on computers.
Climate
Climate affects computer equipment in a variety of ways:
• If the environment temperature is too high, equipment can overheat.
• If the humidity level is too low, the chance of ESD increases.
• If the humidity level is too high, equipment can suffer from moisture damage.
• If the condition is Cool and Dry = ESD probability is High
• If the condition is Warm and Humid = ESD probability is Low
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The following types of AC power fluctuations can cause data loss or hardware failure:
• Blackout – complete loss of AC power. A blown fuse, damaged transformer, or downed power line can cause a blackout.
• Brownout – reduced voltage level of AC power that lasts for a period of time. Brownouts occur when the power line voltage
drops below 80% of the normal voltage level. Overloading electrical circuits can cause a brownout.
• Noise – interference from generators and lightning. Noise results in unclean power, which can cause errors in a computer
system.
• Spike – sudden increase in voltage that lasts for a very short period and exceeds 100% of the normal voltage on a line. Spikes
can be caused by lightning strikes, but can also occur when the electrical system comes back on after a blackout.
• Power surge – dramatic increase in voltage above the normal flow of electrical current. A power surge lasts for a few
nanoseconds, or one-billionth of a second.
• Surge Suppressor – helps protect against damage from surges and spikes.
A surge suppressor diverts extra electrical voltage on the line to the ground.
• Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) – helps protect against potential electrical power
problems by supplying electrical power to a computer or other device. The battery is
constantly recharging while the UPS is in use. The UPS is able to supply a consistent quality
of power when brownouts and blackouts occur. Many UPS devices are able to
communicate directly with the operating system on a computer. This communication
allows the UPS to safely shut down the computer and save data prior to the UPS losing all
electrical power.
• Standby Power Supply (SPS) – helps protect against potential electrical power problems by providing a backup battery to
supply power when the incoming voltage drops below the normal level. The battery is on standby during the normal
operation. When the voltage decreases, the battery provides DC power to a power inverter, which converts it to AC power
for the computer. This device is not as reliable as a UPS because of the time it takes to switch over to the battery. If the
switching device fails, the battery will not be able to supply power to the computer.
SDS - MSDS
A safety data sheet (SDS), material safety data sheet (MSDS), or product safety data
sheet (PSDS) is an important component of product stewardship, occupational safety
and health, and spill-handling procedures. SDS formats can vary from source to source
within a country depending on national requirements. SDSs are a widely used system
for cataloging information on chemicals, chemical compounds, and chemical mixtures.
SDS information may include instructions for the safe use and potential hazards
associated with a particular material or product.
NOTE: The MSDS - SDS is valuable in determining how to dispose of any potentially hazardous materials in the safest manner. Always
check local regulations concerning acceptable disposal methods before disposing of any electronic equipment.
Computers and other computing devices are eventually discarded because of one of the
following reasons:
• Parts or components begin to fail more frequently as the device ages.
• The computer becomes obsolete for the application for which it was originally intended.
• Newer models have improved features.
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Before discarding a computer or any of its components, it is crucial to consider safe disposal of each separate component.
Proper Disposal of Batteries
Batteries often contain rare earth metals that can be harmful to the environment.
Batteries from portable computer systems may contain lead, cadmium, lithium,
alkaline manganese, and mercury. These metals do not decay and will remain in the
environment for many years. Mercury is commonly used in the manufacturing of
batteries and is extremely toxic and harmful to humans. Recycling batteries should be
a standard practice for a technician. All batteries, including lithium-ion, nickel-
cadmium, nickel-metal hydride, and lead-acid are subject to disposal procedures that
comply with local environmental regulations.
Proper Disposal of Monitors or CRTs
Handle monitors and CRTs with care. Extremely high voltage can be stored in monitors
and CRTs, even after being disconnected from a power source. CRTs contain glass, metal,
plastics, lead, barium, and rare earth metals. According to the U.S. Environmental
Protection Agency (EPA), CRTs may contain approximately 4 lbs (1.8 kg) of lead. Monitors
must be disposed of in compliance with environmental regulations.
Tools and Software use with personal computer components and their purposes
For every job there is the right tool. Make sure that you are familiar with the correct use of each tool and that the right tool is used
for the current task. Skilled use of tools and software makes the job less difficult and ensures that tasks are performed properly and
safely. Software tools are available that help diagnose problems. Use these tools to determine which computer device is not
functioning correctly.
A technician must document all repairs and computer problems. The documentation can then be used as a reference for future
problems or for other technicians who may not have encountered the problem before. The documents may be paper based, but
electronic forms are preferred because they can be easily searched for specific problems.
• ESD tools
• Hand tools
• Cleaning tools
• Diagnostic tools
ESD Tools
There are two ESD tools: the antistatic wrist strap and the antistatic mat. The antistatic wrist strap protects computer equipment when
grounded to a computer chassis. The antistatic mat protects computer equipment by preventing static electricity from accumulating
on the hardware or on the technician.
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Hand Tools
Most tools used in the computer assembly process are small hand tools.
They are available individually or as part of a computer repair toolkit.
Toolkits range widely in size, quality, and price.
Cleaning Tools
Having the appropriate cleaning tools is essential when maintaining or repairing computers.
Using these tools ensures that computer components are not damaged during cleaning.
• Soft Cloth – is used to clean different computer components without scratching or
leaving debris.
• Compressed Air – is used to blow away dust and debris from different computer parts
without touching the components.
• Cable Ties – are used to bundle cables neatly and inside and outside of a computer.
• Part Organizer – is used to hold screws, jumpers, fasteners, and other small parts and
prevents them from getting mixed together.
Diagnostic Tools
A digital multimeter and a loopback adapter are used to test hardware.
Digital Multi-meter – is used to test the integrity of circuits and the quality of electricity in computer
components.
Loopback Adapter – is used to test the basic functionality of computer ports.
• Fdisk or Disk Management – used to create and delete partitions on a hard drive
• Format – used to prepare a hard drive to store information
• Scandisk or Chkdsk – used to check the integrity of files and folders on a hard
drive by scanning the disk surface for physical errors
• Defrag – used to optimize space on a hard drive to allow faster access to
programs and data
• Disk Cleanup – used to clear space on a hard drive by searching for files that can
be safely deleted
• Disk Management – a system utility used to manage hard drives and partitions,
which performs tasks such as initializing disks, creating partitions, and
formatting partitions
• System File Checker (SFC) – a command-line utility that scans the operating
system critical files and replaces any files that are corrupted
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Protection Software Tools
Each year, viruses, spyware, and other types of malicious attacks infect millions of
computers. These attacks can damage an operating system, application, and data.
Computers that have been infected may even have problems with hardware performance
or component failure. To protect data and the integrity of the operating system and
hardware, use software designed to guard against attacks and to remove malicious
programs.
Various types of software are used to protect hardware and data.
• Antivirus Program – protects a computer against virus attacks.
• Spyware Remover – protects against software that sends information about web surfing habits to an attacker. Spyware can
be installed without the knowledge or consent of the user.
• Firewall – a program that runs continuously to protect against unauthorized communications to and from your computer.
Organizational Tools and their purpose
It is important that a technician document all services and repairs. These documents need to be stored centrally and made available
to all other technicians. The documentation can then be used as reference material for similar problems that are encountered in the
future. Good customer service includes providing the customer with a detailed description of the problem and the solution.
This documentation will be valuable when you encounter similar situations in the future.
• Notes – Make notes as you go through the investigation and repair process. Refer
to these notes to avoid repeating previous steps and to determine what steps to
take next.
• Journal – Document the upgrades and repairs that you perform. The documentation
should include descriptions of the problem, possible solutions that have been tried
in order to correct the problem, and the steps taken to repair the problem. Be sure
to note any configuration changes made to the equipment and any replacement
parts used in the repair. Your journal, along with your notes, can be valuable when
you encounter similar situations in the future.
• History of repairs – Make a detailed list of problems and repairs, including the date,
replacement parts, and customer information. The history allows a technician to determine what work has been performed
on a computer in the past.
Miscellaneous Tools
With experience, you will discover many additional items to add to the toolkit. A working computer is also a valuable resource to take
with you on computer repairs in the field. A working computer can be used to research information, download tools or drivers, or
communicate with other technicians.
Make sure that the parts are in good working order before you use them. Using known good
working components to replace possible bad ones in computers will help you quickly determine
which component may not be working properly.
Demonstrations
Wearing an antistatic wrist strap can prevent ESD damage to computer components.
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The purpose of an antistatic wrist strap is to equalize the electrical charge between you and the equipment. The antistatic wrist
strap is a conductor that connects your body to the equipment that you are working on. When static electricity builds up in your
body, the connection made by the wrist strap to the equipment, or ground, channels the
electricity through the wire that connects the strap.
NOTE: Attach the wire on the same side of the equipment as the arm wearing the antistatic wrist strap. This will help to keep the wire
out of the way while you are working. Although wearing a wrist strap will help to prevent ESD, you can further reduce the risks by not
wearing clothing made of silk, polyester, or wool. These fabrics are more likely to generate a static charge.
NOTE: Technicians should roll up their sleeves, remove scarf or ties, and tuck in their
shirts to prevent interference from clothing. Ensure that earrings, necklaces, and
other loose jewelry are properly secured.
CAUTION: Never wear an antistatic wrist strap if you are repairing a monitor or CRT.
Anti-static Mat
You may not always have the option to work on a computer in a properly equipped
workspace. If you can control the environment, try to set up your workspace away
from carpeted areas. Carpets can cause the buildup of electrostatic charges. If you
cannot avoid the carpeting, ground yourself to the unpainted portion of the case of
the computer on which you are working before touching any components. An
antistatic mat is slightly conductive. It works by drawing static electricity away from a
component and transferring it safely from equipment to a grounding point.
1. Lay the mat on the workspace next to or under the computer case.
2. Clip the mat to the case to provide a grounded surface on which you can place parts as you remove them from the system.
Reducing the potential for ESD reduces the likelihood of damage to delicate circuits or components.
Workbench
When you are working at a workbench, ground the workbench and the antistatic floor mat. By standing on the mat and wearing the
wrist strap, your body has the same charge as the equipment and reduces the probability of ESD.
Proper Demonstration
A technician needs to be able to properly use each tool in the toolkit. This topic covers many of the various hand tools used when
repairing computers.
Screws
Match each screw with the proper screwdriver. Place the tip of the screwdriver on the head of the screw. Turn the screwdriver
clockwise to tighten the screw and counterclockwise to loosen the screw. Screws can become stripped if you over-tighten them with
a screwdriver. A stripped screw may get stuck in the screw hole, or it may not tighten firmly. Discard stripped screws.
CAUTION: If excessive force is needed to remove or add a component, something is probably wrong. Take a second look to make sure
that you have not missed a screw or a locking clip that is holding the component in place. Refer to the device manual or diagram for
additional information.
Hex Driver
Use a hex driver to loosen and tighten bolts that have a hexagonal (six-sided) head. Hex bolts should not be over-tightened because
the threads of the bolts can be stripped. Do not use a hex driver that is too large for the bolt that you are using.
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CAUTION: Some tools are magnetized. When working around electronic devices, be sure that the tools you are using have not been
magnetized. Magnetic fields can be harmful to data stored on magnetic media. Test your tool by touching the tool with a screw. If the
screw is attracted to the tool, do not use the tool.
CAUTION: Pencils should not be used inside the computer to change the setting of switches or to pry off jumpers. The pencil lead
can act as a conductor and may damage the computer components.
Cleaning
Keeping computers clean inside and out is a vital part of a maintenance
program. Dirt can cause problems with the physical operation of fans,
buttons, and other mechanical components. On electrical components, an
excessive buildup of dust will act like an insulator and trap the heat. This
insulation will impair the ability of heat sinks and cooling fans to keep
components cool, causing chips and circuits to overheat and fail.
CAUTION: Before cleaning any device, turn it off and unplug the device
from the power source.
LCD Screens
Do not use ammoniated glass cleaners or any other solution on an LCD screen unless the cleaner is specifically designed for the
purpose. Harsh chemicals will damage the coating on the screen. There is no glass protecting these screens, so be gentle when cleaning
them and do not press firmly on the screen.
CRT Screens
To clean the screens of CRT monitors, dampen a soft, clean, lint-free cloth with distilled water and wipe the screen from top to bottom.
Then use a soft, dry cloth to wipe the screen and remove any streaking after you have cleaned the monitor. Clean dusty components
with a can of compressed air. Compressed air does not cause electrostatic buildup on components.
Compressed Air Can
Blow out the dust using short bursts from the can. Never tip the can or use the compressed air can upside down. Do not allow the
fan blades to spin from the force of the compressed air. Hold the fan in place. Fan motors can be ruined from spinning when the
motor is not turned on.
Component Contacts
Clean the contacts on components with isopropyl alcohol. Do not use rubbing alcohol. Rubbing alcohol contains impurities that can
damage contacts. Make sure that the contacts do not collect any lint from the cloth or cotton swab. Blow any lint off the contacts with
compressed air before reinstallation.
CAUTION: Never use a standard vacuum cleaner inside a computer case. The plastic parts of the vacuum cleaner can build up static
electricity and discharge to the components. Use only a vacuum approved for electronic components.
Below indicate the computer items that you should clean and the cleaning materials you should use in each case.
• Computer case and outside of monitor – Mild cleaning solution and lint-free cloth.
• LCD Screen - Mild cleaning solution and lint-free cloth.
• CRT - Mild cleaning solution and lint-free cloth.
• Heat Sink - Compressed air
• RAM – Isopropyl alcohol and lint-free swab
• Keyboard – Hand-held vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment.
• Mouse – Mild cleaning solution and lint free cloth.
Adapted and compiled from:
CCNA IT Essential, “PC Hardware and Software” version 4.0, Cisco Networking Academy
CCNA Discovery 1, “Networking for Home and Small Businesses”, Cisco Networking Academy
CCNA Discovery 2, “Working at a Small-to-Medium Business of ISP”, Cisco Networking Academy
CCNA Exploration 1, “Network Fundamentals”, Cisco Networking Academy
Cisco Networking Academy Program, CCNA 1 and 2 Companion Guide, Cisco Press
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https://www.sougolink-beef.net/tips-for-cleaning-and-caring-for-computer-from-dust.html