HOW TO MAINTAIN YOUR COMPUTER SYSTEM.

1.Start a notebook that includes information on your system.

This notebook should be a single source of information about your entire system, both hardware and software. Each time you make a change to your system, add or remove hardware or software, or when you change system parameters , you should record the change in your notebook. Items you should iclude in the notebook are the the following:

• Serial numbers of all equipment and software.
• Vendor support telephone numbers. Look up these numbers in your user manuals once and record all of them at the front of your notebook.
• User IDs, passwords, and nickn
• Data and vendor for each equipment and software purchase.
• Printouts of key system files (e.g., autoexec.bat and cofig.sys).
• Trouble log; a chronological history of any equipment or software problems. this history can be helpful if problem persists and you have to call for support serveral times .
• Notes on discussions with vendor support personnel (can be combined with trouble log).

2. Periodically review disk directories ad delete unneeded files.

Files have a way of building up and quickly can see up your disk space. If you think you may need file in the future, back it up to a floppy disk. Consider using an uninstaller utility program.

3. Any time you work inside your computer, turn off the power and disconnect the equipment from the power source.

In addition. before you touch anything inside the computer, touch an unpainted metal surface such as the power supply. This will help to discharge any static electricity that could damage internal components.

4. Reduce the need to clean the inside of your system by keeping the surrounding area dirt and dust free.

Floppy disk cleaners are available but should be used sparingly ( some owners never use them unless they experience floppy disk problems ). If dusts builds up inside the computer, remove it carefully with compressed air and a small vacuum . Do not touch the components with the vacuum.

5. Back up your files data.

Use the operating system or a utility program to create an emergency or rescue disk to help you restart you computer if it crashes. Important data files should be copied regularly to disks , tape, or another computer.

6. Periodically defragment your hard disk. Defragmenting your hard disk re-organizes files so they are contiguous (adjacent) clusters and makes disk operations faster. Always back up your system before you run a defragmention program.

7.Protect your system from computer viruses. Computer viruses are programs designed to infect computer systems by coping themselves into other computer files . The virus program spread when the infected files are used by or copied to another system. Virus programs are dangerous because often they are designed to damage the files of the infected computer. You can protect yourself from virus by installing an anti virus in your computer.

8. Learn to use diagnostic programs.

If your did not include diagnostic programs, obtain a set. This programs helps you identify and possible solvce problems before you call for technical assistance. Some system manufacturers now include diagnostic programs with their systems and ask that you run the programs beforre you call for help.

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