CHAPTER 6: Maintaining Your Computer66Cleaning your computerKeeping your computer clean and the vents free from dusthelps keep your computer performing at its best. You maywant to gather these items and put together a computercleaning kit:• A soft, lint-free cloth• An aerosol can of air that has a narrow, straw-likeextension• Cotton swabs• An optical disc drive cleaning kitCleaning the exterior• Always turn off your computer and other peripheraldevices before cleaning any components.• Use a damp, lint-free cloth to clean your computer andother parts of your system. Do not use householdabrasive or solvent cleaners because they can damagethe finish on components.• Your computer is cooled by air circulated through thevents on the case, so keep the vents free of dust. Withyour computer turned off and unplugged, brush thedust away from the vents with a damp cloth. Be carefulnot to drip any water into the vents.WarningWhen you shut down your computer, the power turns off, but someelectrical current still flows through it. To avoid possible injury from electricalshock, unplug the power cord, modem cable, and network cable from the walloutlets.
