Care of the Computer – JSS1 Business Studies Lesson Note (Third Term)

Caring for a computer means keeping it clean, covered, correctly placed and safe from heat, dust, liquids, magnets and viruses so that it keeps working well.

Behavioural objectives

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

1. define a computer and name its main parts;
2. state the points to follow for the proper care and upkeep of a computer;
3. list the items used for cleaning and protecting a computer;
4. state rules for keeping a computer in good working condition;
5. explain what a computer virus is and how to avoid it.

What is a computer?

A computer is an electronic device that accepts raw data, processes it and gives useful information.

• Delicate: its inside parts are easily damaged by knocks, heat, water and dust.
• Expensive: repairs and replacement cost a lot of money.
• Efficient when cared for: it gives good service only if it is kept in good working condition.

What are the main parts of a computer?

• Monitor: the screen that shows text and pictures.
• Keyboard: the set of keys used to type data into the computer.
• Mouse: a small device used to point at and select items on the screen.
• System unit (CPU case): the box that holds the processor and other inner parts.
• Printer: a device that prints information on paper.

Why should we take care of a computer?

We care for a computer to make it last longer and work without faults.

• Longer life: a clean and covered computer lasts for many years.
• Saves money: fewer breakdowns mean fewer repair bills.
• Protects data: files are less likely to be lost or damaged.
• Better performance: the computer runs smoothly and quickly.

How do we care for and maintain a computer?

There are five main points for the proper care and upkeep of a computer.

1. Placing the computer on the computer table: always keep the computer in the centre of the table so that it does not fall. Do not leave it in the hot sun, because heat can damage the screen and other parts.
2. Cleaning and dusting of the computer: cleaning the computer daily prolongs its life. Dust harms the parts of the keyboard. Cover the computer and its parts when they are not in use.
3. Operation of the computer: handle the computer with care. Rough handling damages the system, and the keys should not be pressed hard.
4. Overhauling of the computer: overhauling of the computer or any other office machine should be done by an expert, that is, the computer hardware engineer.
5. Dust cover: dust in the air can cause major damage, so a dust cover is needed. Never leave the computer uncovered when not in use, as dust builds up quickly and damages the mechanism more than ordinary wear and tear.

What is overhauling?

Overhauling is the full checking, cleaning and repair of a machine by an expert to put it in good working order.

• Who does it: the computer hardware engineer, not the ordinary user.
• Why: a user who opens the machine may damage inside parts or cause an electric shock.
• When: when the computer develops a fault or at regular service times.

What things can harm a computer?

Heat, dust, liquids, magnets, viruses, power faults and rough handling are the common dangers to a computer.

What items are used for the care of the computer?

The items used for cleaning and protecting a computer are a soft brush, a soft duster and a dust cover.

1. Long soft brush: removes dust from between the keys and other narrow places.
2. Cloth duster or soft duster: wipes dust from the screen, keyboard and system unit.
3. Dust cover: a cover of cloth or plastic that protects the computer when not in use.
4. Stabiliser: keeps the electricity supply to the computer at a steady level.
5. Antivirus software: a program that finds and removes computer viruses.

What rules should we follow when caring for a computer?

The rules below keep a computer in good working condition.

1. Do not place the computer near the washroom, kitchen, canteen and similar places.
2. Always cover the computer with a soft cloth or plastic when it is not in use.
3. Put off all switches when the computer is not in use.
4. Use a soft duster to clean the computer.
5. Cover the keyboard, screen, CPU and other parts with a soft cloth.
6. Close all programs before shutting down.
7. Keep magnets away from your computer.
8. Avoid contaminated storage devices to prevent computer viruses.
9. Use a stabiliser to protect the computer from sudden changes in voltage.
10. Do not eat or drink near the computer.
11. Always call the computer engineer to check for any faults.

What is a computer virus?

A computer virus is a harmful program that spreads from one computer to another and damages files or slows the computer.

• Flash drives: a virus can pass from an infected drive to your computer.
• Email attachments: unknown files can carry a virus.
• Unsafe downloads: files from untrusted websites may be infected.

How can we protect a computer from viruses?

1. Install antivirus software and keep it up to date.
2. Scan every flash drive or disk before opening its files.
3. Do not open email attachments from people you do not know.
4. Avoid downloading files from untrusted websites.

What is a simple daily care routine for a computer?

A daily routine has steps for before use and after use.

1. Remove the dust cover and fold it neatly.
2. Check that the computer is in the centre of the table and away from direct sunlight.
3. Use the computer gently and keep food and drinks away.
4. Close all programs when you finish.
5. Shut down the computer properly and put off all switches.
6. Wipe the screen, keyboard and system unit with a soft duster.
7. Cover the computer with the dust cover.

Evaluation

1. Define a computer.
2. State five points for the proper care and upkeep of a computer.
3. List three items used for cleaning and protecting a computer.
4. Why should a computer not be placed near the kitchen?
5. What is a computer virus, and how can it be avoided?

Assignment

Answer both parts: (a) What is overhauling? (b) Write five special points of care to take when maintaining a computer.