Computer Maintenance – JSS3 Digital Technologies Lesson Note (Second Term)

Computer maintenance is the set of regular actions taken to keep a computer clean, safe and working well for a long time.

Behavioural objectives

By the end of the lesson, students should be able to:

1. Define computer maintenance and state why it matters.
2. Name the main dangers to a computer: dust, liquids, heat and unstable power.
3. Clean the screen, keyboard and outside vents of a computer safely.
4. State the rules for proper handling of a computer.
5. Name three power protection devices and say what each one does.
6. Shut down a computer correctly.

Why does computer maintenance matter?

Maintenance matters because a well-kept computer lasts longer and costs less to run.

• Comparison: a computer is like a car or your own body. If it is never cleaned or cared for, it will break down.
• Cost: it is much cheaper to clean a computer regularly than to repair or replace it every year.
• Performance: a clean, cool computer works faster and fails less often.

What are the main dangers to a computer?

The main dangers to a computer are dust, liquids and heat.

1. Dust: it clogs fans and vents, so the computer overheats and parts can be damaged.
2. Liquids: water and electronics do not mix, and one spill can ruin a keyboard or a whole computer.
3. Heat: computers work best when cool, and too much heat slows them down and damages parts.

Teacher’s key point: it is much cheaper to clean a computer once a month than to buy a new one every year.

What are the types of computer maintenance?

There are two types of computer maintenance: preventive maintenance and corrective maintenance.

Preventive maintenance

• Meaning: actions taken regularly to stop faults before they happen.
• Examples: dusting the screen, cleaning the keyboard, using a UPS, running antivirus scans.

Corrective maintenance

• Meaning: actions taken to repair a fault after it has happened.
• Examples: replacing a broken keyboard, removing a virus, repairing a damaged power supply.

How do you clean a computer safely?

Clean a computer gently with the right tools, because it is not like washing a plate in the kitchen.

• The screen (monitor): never use window cleaner or harsh soap. Use a soft, dry microfibre cloth.
• Very dirty screens: dampen the cloth very slightly with water or use a special screen cleaner. Do not spray liquid straight onto the screen.
• The keyboard: dust and crumbs hide under the keys. Use a small brush or a can of compressed air to blow the dirt out.
• The internal parts: never open the system unit unless you are trained.
• Vents and fans: use an air blower or a soft brush to clear dust from the outside vents.

Safety rule #1: always turn off the computer and unplug it from the wall before you start cleaning.

Steps for wiping a monitor

1. Shut down the computer and unplug it.
2. Wait for the screen to cool and go dark.
3. Fold a clean, soft microfibre cloth.
4. Wipe gently in one direction, from top to bottom.
5. If needed, use a cloth slightly damp with water, then wipe dry with a dry part of the cloth.
6. Plug in and switch on only when the screen is fully dry.

What are the rules for proper handling of a computer?

Proper handling means using and placing a computer in a way that prevents damage.

• Ventilation: never block the vents on the side or back. Do not place a laptop on a pillow or bed, because this traps heat. Use a hard, flat surface.
• No food or drinks: keep snacks and water bottles away from the computer desk. Spills are a common cause of broken keyboards.
• Cable care: do not pull a cable by the wire. Hold the plug (the “head”) when disconnecting.
• Gentle use: do not bang the keys or slam the laptop lid. It is a tool, not a drum.
• Tidy cables: do not leave cables tangled on the floor where people can trip on them.
• Cover: cover the computer when it is not in use to keep dust off.

How do you protect a computer from power problems?

Use power protection devices, because unstable electricity can damage a computer’s power supply and other parts.

In Nigeria, electricity can be unstable, with sudden surges and sudden cuts.

What are the power protection devices?

1. Surge protector: it looks like an extension box but has built-in protection that stops a sudden spike of electricity from reaching the computer.
2. UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply): it is like a big battery. If the light goes out, it keeps the computer on for a few minutes so you can save your work and shut down properly.
3. Stabiliser: it keeps the voltage steady so the computer gets the right amount of power.

What is the safe shutdown procedure?

Never just pull the plug, because this can damage files and the operating system.

1. Save your work and close all open programs.
2. Click Start.
3. Click Power, then Shut down.
4. Wait until the screen and lights go off.
5. Switch off at the socket and unplug if the computer will not be used for a long time.

A proper shutdown lets the computer close programs and files safely before the power goes off.

What is software maintenance?

Software maintenance is the care of programs and files so that the computer runs well and stays safe.

• Antivirus: install antivirus software and scan the computer regularly.
• Updates: update the operating system and programs when updates are available.
• Backup: keep a copy of important files on a flash drive or other storage.
• Clean-up: delete files and programs you no longer need.
• Safe downloads: do not install programs from sources you do not trust.

Class discussion and activity

• Look around the computer lab. Spot three things that might be dangerous for the computers, such as dust on monitors, a student with a drink, or cables tangled on the floor.
• Task: practise the correct way to wipe a monitor using a soft cloth.

Evaluation

1. Define computer maintenance.
2. State three dangers to a computer and how each one harms it.
3. Why must a computer be switched off and unplugged before cleaning?
4. Name three power protection devices and state the job of each.
5. List the steps for shutting down a computer correctly.

Assignment

Write a simple maintenance plan for your school computer lab. List five things to do daily or monthly, and say why each one is needed.