User Manual Part 5

230
Chapter 15: Maintaining Your Computer
www.gateway.com
Cleaning your computer
Keeping your computer clean and the vents free from dust helps keep your
system performing at its best. You may want to gather these items and put
together a computer cleaning kit:
■ A soft cloth
■ An aerosol can of air that has a narrow, straw-like extension
■ Isopropyl alcohol
■ Cotton swabs
■ A CD/DVD drive cleaning kit
Cleaning the exterior
Always turn off the computer and other peripherals and remove the battery
before cleaning any components.
Use a damp, lint-free cloth to clean the computer and other parts of your
system. Do not use abrasive or solvent cleaners because they can damage the
finish on your components.
Your computer is cooled by air drawn in through the vents on the case, so
keep the vents free of dust. With the computer turned off and unplugged,
brush the dust away from the vents with a damp cloth. Be careful not to drip
any water into the vents. Do not attempt to clean dust from the inside of
computer.
Warning When you shut down your computer, the power turns off,
but some electrical current still flows through the computer.
To avoid possible injury from electrical shock, unplug the
power cord and modem cable from the wall outlets.
Solo9550.book Page 230 Tuesday, June 19, 2001 3:18 PM