If you want to work on your computer and fix any internal issues with your computer yourself, you first need to know how to safely work on your computer. Here are a few tips to keep you and your computer safe the next time you want to try to fix it.
Unplug Your Computer
If you are working on a desktop computer, unplug your computer and let it sit and cool down for ten to fifteen minutes before you start working on the inside of your computer. Your computer does not just draw all of its power from the outlet; it also holds onto that power inside of it, which why you need to let your computer cool down and let the power inside of it dissipate before you get to work.
Don't start working as soon as you unplug your computer; you could get shocked if it is still storing electricity inside of it.
Reduce the Risk for Static Electric Shock
Next, before you start to work on your computer, you need to reduce the risk of static electric shock. Static electric shock is that little zap you feel when you touch something that is electrically charged. Although that zap can feel little to you, it can fry parts of your computer and cause additional and extensive damage to your computer.
Before you begin working on your computer, touch something nearby that is metal. That way, if you have any static electricity inside of you, it will be expelled before you start working.
Next, never stand on carpet while working on your computer. Your body can easily pick up static from the carpet and transfer it to your computer. You should stand on something solid, like cement, hardwood or laminate flooring when working on your computer to reduce the risk of electric shock.
Finally, place your computer on a static-free mat when you work on it. This will decrease the chance of a static transfer even more. You can purchase a static-free map at your local computer store.
Be Very Careful When Working on the Monitor
If your monitor is not working properly, you should not try to fix it at home. Your monitor can store a lot of electricity inside of it, which increases the chances of you being electrocuted if you work on it. Additionally, newer monitors contain very sensitive parts that can easily be damaged and ruined beyond repair if you are not sure of what you are doing. Be sure you really know what you are doing before you work on your monitor; a small mistake could lead you to have to purchase a new monitor, so be sure you completely understand the directions before working on your monitor.
Avoid the Power Supply
You should not work on the power supply on your computer. If you suspect that something is wrong with the power supply, take it into a computer technician through resources like Ardmore Computer Repair who has the right tools to test and replace it in a safe environment. Even unplugging your computer and reducing the risk for electric shock may not be enough to save you from being electrocuted while working on the power supply. Power supply repairs are something you should only do on your own if you have advanced computer skills; they are not an area of the computer that beginners should try to tackle on their own.
Know Your Limits
Another part of being safe while working on your computer is knowing your limits. There are some areas of your computer that are not designed for beginners to work on because even if you follow the precautions above, such as your monitor and the power supply. These areas require advanced computer knowledge in order to avoid injury to yourself and your computer.
When working on your desktop computer at home, always unplug it and allow it to cool off before you get to work. Additionally, do everything you can to create a static-free work environment so you don't fry your computer components. Finally, know your limits when it comes to fixing up your computer on your own.
Share29 January 2016
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