CompTIA A+® Certification All-In-One For Dummies®, 2nd Edition

1.2. Using Preventive Maintenance Tools

Your cache of preventive maintenance tools should include software and hardware devices. A balanced approach to maintenance includes a good number from each category.

1.2.1. Materials and equipment

For you to effectively perform preventive maintenance on your computer equipment, you need the correct tools with you. These tools include the following:

• Compressed air: Use to remove debris and dust from surfaces you don't want to touch, or to dust small corners.

• Computer vacuum: These vacuums can be used to remove dust and debris from a variety of surfaces within your computer, such as system fans.

  A number of companies produce computer vacuums. One of the largest suppliers is Metropolitan Vacuum Cleaner, which makes the DataVac line (www.metrovacworld.com).

• Cleaning cloths: Cleaning cloths should be lint-free. If you use synthetic cloths, take care when you're working with cleaning chemicals because some chemicals can decompose the cloth or bleed out the dyes in them, which might leave residue on the surfaces you are trying to clean.

• Cleaners and chemicals: Most approved cleaners are mild, nonabrasive, and benzene- and ammonia-free. In most cases, using chemicals should be avoided for most surfaces, and either a dry cloth or a cloth moistened with water should be used.

• Cleaning pads: These soft, lint-free cloths are premoistened with mild cleaners. Cleaning pads are usually more of a convenience item than a necessity.

• Manufacturer-approved cleaning ...