- One Gateway Computer Reference Guide

CHAPTER 4: Maintaining Your Computer
62
Cleaning your computer
Keeping your computer clean and the vents free from dust
helps keep your computer performing at its best. You may
want to gather these items and put together a computer
cleaning kit:
A soft, lint-free cloth
An aerosol can of air that has a narrow, straw-like
extension
Cotton swabs
An optical disc drive cleaning kit
Cleaning the exterior
Always turn off your computer and other peripheral
devices before cleaning any components.
Use a soft, lint-free cloth to wipe dust from your
computer and other parts of your system. Do not use
household abrasive or solvent cleaners such as alcohol,
ammonia, hexane, thinner, oils, or glass cleaner, because
they can damage the finish on the acrylic covering for
the computer, the mouse, the keyboard, and the remote
control.
To clean fingerprints or oily blemishes, use a cloth
dampened (not soaking wet) with a mild
soap-and-water solution.
Your computer is cooled by air circulated through the
vents on the bottom and top of the case, so keep the
vents free of dust. With your computer turned off and
unplugged, brush the dust away from the vents with a
vacuum or a damp cloth.
Warning
When you shut down your computer, the power turns off, but some
electrical current still flows through it. To avoid possible injury from electrical
shock, unplug the power/data cord, modem cable, and network cable from the
wall outlets.
Caution
Do not use glass cleaner, ammonia-based, or alcohol-based
cleaners, because they will damage the acrylic coatings.
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