Keeping Your Laptop In Good Condition

April 22, 2009 · Filed Under Computer Hardware · Comment 
by Michael Tan

A laptop computer is not cheap. So if you own a laptop, you should do everything you can to keep it in the best condition.

Here are a few tips to keep your laptop in good shape:

1. Keep your laptop cool – It’s important to keep the temperature of your laptop low, because there’s a risk of damaging the internal circuitry when the temperature of your laptop gets too high. This is especially important for those who use their laptop to run high-powered software as running such program typically generate lots of heat. So always make sure that the fan grills (can be at the back, sides, or bottom of the machine) of your laptop is not blocked. Make use of a laptop cooler if possible.

2. Ensure good maintenance for the screen – LCD screen is the most important component for a laptop. When the screen is broken, it will not be easy to repair. So it’s important to take care of the screen properly. Do not touch the screen if not necessary, and clean the screen only using approved cleaning materials.

3. Avoid dropping your laptop – A laptop computer is designed for portability. But this also means that there will be higher chances of dropping it when carrying it around. One ill fated drop to the floor can immediately kill a laptop. So always be extra careful when carrying a laptop around. For extra protection, put it in a laptop case when it’s not in use.

4. Don’t spill your drinks on it – Many people have the habit of eating or drinking while working on their laptops. Unless your laptop is water-proof, you want to be extra careful when having drinks near your laptop. A few drops of liquid on the right spot of the laptop will easily kill the machine. It’s especially important to keep your drinks away from the touchpad and keyboard.

5. Just say no to viruses – Security wise, make sure you obtain an anti-virus program. Secondly, keep it updated! Buying an anti-virus one month and not updating it for the next six really negates it purpose. Your laptop computer could be exposed to hundreds and thousands of new viruses every month if you don’t update your virus definitions. Most anti-virus programs have automatic update methods, eliminating the need for you to have to remember to do it manually.

And that’s the few basic guidelines that every laptop owners should pay attention to. Following these tips will ensure your laptop to always stay in good condition.

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