How to Maintain Monitors
The monitor is one of the most crucial parts of any computer system. Without it, your computer is little more than an expensive paper weight. Cleaning and preventive maintenance will ensure that your monitor keeps performing at its best right along with the rest of your system.
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Things You'll Need
- Lint-free cloth
- Small, soft-tipped artist's paint brushes
- Vacuum
- Can of compressed air (must be designed for electronics; other types leave a residue that can damage your computer)
- Water
- Rubbing alcohol
Instructions
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Vacuum the vents on the back of your monitor. Dust buildup is a form of insulation, which causes your monitor to retain heat. Most CRT-type monitors have these vents; most LCDs do not.
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Use a clean, lint-free cloth to remove dust from the screen itself. Rubbing alcohol and water can be used on an LCD screen, while plain water can be used on a CRT if solvent is needed. You also can wipe down the casing at this point, removing dust and grime that the vacuum couldn't.
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Check the cables and video card for bent or broken pins. Misaligned pins will cause decreased performance, if not outright failure.
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Check the video card to make sure it's firmly seated in its socket. The fan on most video cards causes a minute amount of vibration that can slowly work the card loose. A retaining screw can prevent this, if your card and case are set up for it.
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Clean your graphics card. Use small, soft-tipped paint brushes to remove dust from the card itself, then clean the fan thoroughly with compressed air, cotton swabs and a small vacuum. Never allow the fan to spin freely while vacuuming; hold it in place with a fingertip to prevent damage to the motor.
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Tips & Warnings
Monitor maintenance should be performed at least once per month, though weekly maintenance is preferable.
Never remove the case of a CRT monitor yourself; doing so can subject you to a severe electrical shock. Take it to a certified professional if you believe the fuse needs to be replaced.
Remove all power cables and batteries from your system before you start to work on the graphics card.
Ground yourself by touching the metal case or frame of your case before you start to work on the interior components. You should also wear an antistatic wristband, if possible.
References
- Photo Credit computer monitor iso right image by patrimonio designs from Fotolia.com
