How to Physically Clean External Computer Surface

Summary:

• Clean the case.

• Maintain mechanical mouse.

• Keep a neat keyboard.

• Make monitor sparkle.

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Figure 1: Overview of the Steps to Physically Clean External Computer Surface

Step-by-step Guide:

• Clean the case:

Step 1: Cleaning the computer case and the sides and back of the monitor to avoid a build-up of dust and dirt.
 
Figure 2: Cleaning the Computer Case

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Step 2: Use cleaning cloths to lightly dust computer casing. Do not use furniture cleaner or strong solvents.

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Step 3: Use compressed air tool to blow out debris from the air intake slots.

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Step 4: Use isopropyl alcohol pad as a safe cleaner to clean the monitor housing and casing.

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• Maintain mechanical mouse:

Step 1: There are 2 main types of mouse: optical and mechanical. Each is cleaned basically the same way, although the mechanical mouse requires a lot more work.

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Optical mouse require no internal cleaning because they do not contain any rotating part; however, they get sticky over time as dust collects near the light emitter. This can cause erratic movement or prevent the mouse from working properly.
 
Figure 3: Optical Mouse

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Mechanical mouse are especially susceptible to dust and particles that can accumulate inside the mouse, which can make it difficult to track—or move—properly. If the mouse pointer does not move smoothly, the mouse may need to be cleaned.
 
Figure 4: Mechanical Mouse

Step 2: Unplug the mouse from the USB or PS/2 port.

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Step 3: Use a cleaning cloth moistened with warm water or use isopropyl alcohol pads and use it to clean the top, button and bottom of the mouse.

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Step 4: If users are using a mechanical mouse, remove the tracking ball by turning the ball-cover ring counter-clockwise.

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Step 5: Then, clean the tracking ball and the inside of the mouse with isopropyl alcohol pads.
 
Figure 5: Tracking Ball Inside the Mechanical Mouse

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Step 6: Allow all of the parts to dry before reassembling and reconnecting the mouse.

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• Keep a neat keyboard:

Step 1: Unplug the keyboard from the USB or PS/2 port. If the keyboard is plugged into the PS/2 port, you will need to shut down the computer before unplugging it.

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Step 2: Turn the keyboard upside down and gently shake it to remove dirt and dust.

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Step 3: Use air blower, cleaning brush or portable vacuum to clean between the keys.
 
Figure 6: Cleaning the Keys on the Keyboard

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Step 4: Moisten a cotton cloth with rubbing alcohol and use it to clean the tops of keys. Do not pour alcohol or any other liquid directly onto the keys.
 
Figure 7: Cleaning the Tops of the Keys

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Step 5: Reconnect the keyboard to the computer once it is dried.

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• Make monitor sparkle:

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Step 1: Turn off power for the monitor.

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Ste 2: Unplug the monitor from the power.

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Step 3: Use a soft clean cloth moistened with water to wipe the screen clean.
 
Figure 8: Cleaning the Monitor with Moist Cloth

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