Preventive Maintenance and Problem Prevention
Always make sure to back up the data or files. The more important the file, the more often it should be backed up, i.e., saved to the network H or P drives. It is much safer to back up to a network drive than a floppy. Floppies are only intended for temporary data storage. Items saved to a network drive can be restored; because of back-up systems already place. Floppies, when they go bad, cannot.
Don't hit, knock, or disturb the CPU (central processing unit or main box), especially when it is turned on. Remember, the hard-drive disk inside is spinning at thousands of rpm. When jiggled, data can be damaged or lost.
Never delete a file unless you created it or you know what the file does. The rule of thumb is "if you don't know what it does, keep it."
Always use the "Shut Down" command in the start menu to turn your PC off.
Always wait; at least, ten seconds before turn the PC back on again.Shorter cables are better whether they are printer, monitor, mouse, keyboard, or network cables. The farther the signal has to go, the more likely the signal will be degraded (get weaker). Stronger is better.
Peripherals, like printers and scanners, should be the first items turned on and the last items turned off.
Don't cover up or place objects on top of the monitor or the PC. They have vents that allow air circulation and cooling. If blocked, the PC or monitor may overheat. This may cause damage to the PC or monitor.
Don't set up the PC any where that gets direct sunlight. This could cause the PC to overheat which can damage it.
Do not clean the monitor while it is turned on. Turn off the monitor and wait five minutes before you clean it. Otherwise, the static electricity build-up may damage one of the delicate components inside.
When plugging in or unplugging cables, always make sure that the CPU is turned off.
Be patient. The computer may appear to be frozen, but it may be processing. Some days, especially if network traffic is high, processes can run more slowly.