How to Clean a Circuit Board

A dirty circuit board from a PC

Computers that are used in dusty or dirty environments are susceptible to grim buildup on the internal circuit boards. Since air is circulated throughout the case of a computer by cooling fans, there's a constant fresh flow of dirt coming in. Excessive dirt buildup can lower the board's resistance to heat buildup, and in extreme cases, dirt can even cause shorts in the board itself. A regular cleaning routine for the circuit boards of the computer is an essential preventive maintenance step.

Things You'll Need

• Compressed air source (compressor or spray can)
• cotton swaps
• rubbing alcohol
• soft toothbrush

Instructions

1. Shut down and turn off your computer. Unplug the computer from its power source. Place the computer on a workbench or table, and remove the cover so that you can access the parts inside. Tower computers typically have a panel on the side that is removed, while desktops must have the lid behind the front panel removed.

2. Using a compressed air source, blow off any dust or loose dirt that has accumulated on the circuit boards inside the computer. If necessary for access, it's all right to remove the plugs attached to the circuit boards or cards (like memory cards) inserted into the board. It's a good idea to take careful notes on the position and orientation of plugs and cards before you remove them. Take pictures with a digital camera to remind yourself if necessary.

3. Clean any remaining dust or dirt on the circuit board by dipping cotton swabs into rubbing alcohol and gently cleaning the surface of the circuit board. Moisten the swab, but don't soak it. While using the swabs, work carefully around any wires or connecting leads on the circuit board.

Tips & Warnings

• For extremely difficult crusted on dirt, try using a very soft toothbrush. Rub gently after dipping the brush in rubbing alcohol.

• Be sure that the power to your computer is off before opening the case. Never work on live equipment.

References

• Repairing and Upgrading Your PC; Robert Thompson and Barbara Fritchman Thompson; 2009
• Upgrading and Repairing PCs (18th Edition); Scott Mueller; 2007

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish
• Computer maintenance at majorgeeks.com
• Vintage Computer Forums