How to repair a computer that shuts down after being on a while

You turn your computer on and everything is working just fine. Then, after it's been on for a while, it suddenly shuts off. You can't get it to come on again, but then when you turn it on again later in the day, it works fine...for a while, and then shuts down again. What is the most likely cause of this problem? It could be a buildup of dust!

If you were to survey personal computer repair technicians, what type of computer problem would you think their response would be as to what is top cause of computer malfunctions? You might guess their answer would be computer viruses or hard drive failures, but you might be wrong. One of the major causes of computer problems that force users to take their computer to a repair facility is the result of internal dust build-up!

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• desktop or laptop computer
• vacuum cleaner
• can of compressed air

1. Consider the symptoms that point to a problem of dust build-up. If your desktop or laptop computer shuts off after it's on for some time, but then when you wait a while and turn it on again it works fine, dust accumulation inside your computer is most likely the culprit! Dust collecting on components inside your computer's case will cause them to overheat. If your computer's components overheat, they may cause a number of problems, including shutting down of the computer. Obviously, if you turn your computer off and let it cool down, it will work fine when turned back on, until the heat builds up again. The first step is to place the brush attachement on your vacuum cleaner and remove dusk from all the vent and fan holes in your computer's case. Computers have one or more fans inside that draw air into the case and across components, and dust particles come right in with it.

2. If you feel competent enough, you can disconnect your desktop computer from the electrical outlet, remove the cover, and carefully vacuum the inside. Be very careful not to disconnect or break any delicated wires or components. Or, you can take the computer outside, remove the cover and blow the dust out with a can of compressed air (which should be available at your local office supply store or computer retailer).

3. If you have a laptop or notebook computer, it is not recommend that you take them apart for cleaning. They are very delicate and easily damaged if you are not experienced at taking them apart.

Tips & Warnings

• Make it a habit to vacuum or blow out the dust in your desktop computer on a regular basis, and have a qualified service technician clean your laptop computer periodically.