Maintenance of Computer I – SS3 Data Processing Lesson Note (First Term)

Computer maintenance is the practice of keeping a computer in good working condition.

Behavioural objectives

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

1. Define computer maintenance.
2. Explain the meaning and importance of hardware maintenance.
3. Highlight some physical maintenance that could be done on the computer.
4. State the correct way to care for the monitor, keyboard, mouse and CD/DVD drive.

Instructional techniques

• Identification: students point out the parts of a computer.
• Explanation: the teacher explains each maintenance practice.
• Questions and answers: short oral questions check understanding.
• Demonstration: the teacher shows how to clean a monitor and keyboard.
• Videos from source: video clips show safe cleaning of a computer.

Instructional materials

• Videos and loudspeaker
• Pictures
• Data Processing for Senior Secondary Education by Hiit Plc
• WAPB Computer Studies for Senior Secondary I by Adekunle et al
• Online materials

What is computer maintenance?

Computer maintenance is the process or practice of keeping the computer in good working condition.

• Purpose: it keeps the computer reliable and ready for use.
• Who does it: every computer user, and trained technicians for repairs.
• Parts involved: a computer system has both hardware and software, and each needs care.

What are hardware and software?

A computer system consists of hardware and software.

• Hardware: the electronic and mechanical parts of a computer, often called the physical parts. Examples are the keyboard, monitor, hard drive and mouse.
• Software: the programs stored on the hardware, such as an operating system or a word processor.

What is hardware maintenance?

Hardware maintenance is the care of the computer’s physical components, such as the keyboard, monitor, hard drive, mouse and other peripherals.

• Peripherals: devices connected to the computer, such as a printer, speaker or scanner.
• Aim: to make the physical parts last longer and work smoothly.

Why is hardware maintenance important?

1. It helps to extend the computer’s lifespan.
2. It helps to prevent wear and tear.
3. It helps to keep the system functioning smoothly.
4. It reduces the cost of repairs and replacement.
5. It helps to protect data stored on the hard drive from loss through faults.

What are the types of computer maintenance?

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

• Preventive maintenance: regular care done to stop faults from happening, such as cleaning and using a UPS.
• Corrective maintenance: repair done after a fault has occurred, such as replacing a faulty keyboard.

What physical maintenance can be done on a computer system?

Physical maintenance is the set of practices that protect the computer’s hardware from damage.

1. Keep the computer away from dust and dirt.
2. Keep liquids away from the computer.
3. Use a surge protector.
4. Use an Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS).
5. Clean the monitor with a slightly damp, clean cloth.
6. Use a laser lens cleaner to clean the DVD/CD lens.
7. Keep your keyboard crumb-free.

How do these practices protect the computer?

• Keeping off dust and dirt: dust blocks air vents and fans and can cause overheating. Use a dust cover when the computer is not in use.
• Keeping liquids away: spilt drinks can damage the keyboard and circuits. Do not eat or drink near the computer.
• Surge protector: a device that shields the computer from sudden rises in voltage.
• UPS: a battery-backed unit that supplies power for a short time when electricity fails. It gives time to save work and shut down properly.
• Cleaning the monitor: wipe gently with a slightly damp, clean cloth. Switch off the monitor first.
• Cleaning the DVD/CD lens: a laser lens cleaner removes dust from the lens so discs are read properly.
• Keeping the keyboard crumb-free: crumbs can make keys stick. Turn the keyboard over gently or use a soft brush.

How should each hardware part be cared for?

Each hardware part has a simple care routine, shown in the table below.

What simple tools are used for cleaning a computer?

Cleaning tools are items used to remove dust and dirt without harming the hardware.

• Soft cloth: used to wipe the monitor and casing.
• Soft brush: used to remove dust from the keyboard and vents.
• Laser lens cleaner: used to clean the CD/DVD lens.
• Dust cover: used to protect the computer when it is not in use.

What safety rules apply when cleaning a computer?

Always switch off and unplug the computer before you clean it.

1. Shut down the computer properly.
2. Unplug it from the power source.
3. Use a clean, soft cloth and do not pour liquid on any part.
4. Do not open the system unit unless you are trained.
5. Plug in again only when all parts are dry.

Evaluation

1. Define computer maintenance.
2. Explain the meaning and importance of hardware maintenance.
3. Highlight some physical maintenance that could be carried out on the computer.
4. State the difference between a surge protector and a UPS.
5. Name the tool used to clean a CD/DVD lens.

Classwork: As in the evaluation questions.

Assignment

List four ways of taking care of the physical parts of a computer.