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Got children?Got people? Then you have also got spills,biscuit crumbs, coke and more. A computer, children and people in general are a lethal combination. So if you have all the above ingredients, you'll need to learn how to clean your PC and all the wide and varied peripherals.Think this is a stupid subject to discuss? There are many persons with computers who remain wary of doing anything with them, other than turning them on and using keyboard input so if you are bored with this subject - take heart - it is for those of us who remain slightly afraid in this technological age. In most cases you will be able to cope for all you will need is a computer a user friendly tool kit and a bit of guidance.

Is a basic computer maintenance and cleaning kit consists of a medium-size Phillips screwdriver, a can of compressed air, isopropyl alcohol, window cleaner, cotton buds and some lint-free cloth. If you want to go more up market you can spend NZD $ 30 up on a computer cleaning kit or NZD $ 20 up on a vacuum cleaner accessory kit.

Any time you open your computer case - possibly only once a year - use the compressed air to get rid of the accumulated dust - don't forget to unplug the PC before opening the case! Pay close attention to grilles and fans - if too much dirt gathers in these areas your computer may overheat. Be careful not to move any of the exposed cards and circuits as the slightest disturbance may cause problems. In tackling the outside of the case first remove the dust by blowing away with the compressed air then spray a little window cleaner on your cloth and wipe everything down. Do not directly spray on just any part of the PC because you could accidentally spray the liquid through a vent and damage the internal circuitry.

Usually you really only need to give your keyboard a superficial clean. Blow it with compressed air then use a small amount of isopropyl alcohol on a cloth to clean the keys and case surfaces. Wipe in between the keys with a cotton bud and if the keyboard appears to be clogged with dirt turn it upside down shaking it to dislodge debris. If that does not work remove the screws on the underside of the keyboard - then remove the top shell. Shake it again to remove the debris and thoroughly blow with compressed air. Carefully remove or brush away whatever is jamming a key. For keyboard spills disassemble the unit and wash it, flip to drain, blot if possible and blow with compressed air letting the unit dry overnight.Don't expect miracles - sugar and other residues are difficult to dispose of and may cause permanent damage.

Got a misbehaving mouse?Then give it a bath! Fully remove the round plate underneath the mouse by rotating in the arrow direction. When the mouse ball drops out, use a small screwdriver or toothpick to carefully and gently scrape the dirt off the rollers. Blow out the mouse interior with compressed air, wipe any dust off the ball and replace back into the mouse case. Laser mice can also be cleaned by removing attached base debris with a warm damp cloth drying thoroughly once completed.