Cleaning

[Nabobalis]

My computer is all dusty inside, so it is time to clean. I assume compressed air is the best method correct? So where can I buy them cheaply and several of them?

Also need to clean keyboard,mouse,LCD,printer and case. How would I go about that?

 

[Escaep]

If you use compressed air do not, do NOT tilt the can upside down. Moisture from inside the can will drip out.

As far as LCD you can use a very fine microfiber cloth. I use this stuff called Monster Screenclean and it works good.

 

[VirusType2]

I've yet to find something that doesn't leave weird oily residue on my CRT monitor. Tried monitor cleaning wipes, Windex, and a few other things.

 

[Nabobalis]

If you use compressed air do not, do NOT tilt the can upside down. Moisture from inside the can will drip out.

As far as LCD you can use a very fine microfiber cloth. I use this stuff called Monster Screenclean and it works good.

Ok, will remember that.

Need UK links tho. But I doubt that could be used to clean other surfaces?

 

[VirusType2]

don't shake the can either. I mean - don't even suddenly move the can

 

[-Psy-]

I use a Vacuum. :|

 

[CyberPitz]

Can of compressed air + a small paint brush = win

 

[Raziaar]

Isn't a vacuum cleaner entirely a bad choice for cleaning the inside of a computer?

Can of compressed air + a small paint brush = win

Dude! I never even thought of using a paint brush! That's a great idea for getting all that dust off the fans... I just never bothered cleaning it off more than getting all the dust bunnies and everything else blown away with the compressed air.

 

[Qonfused]

Not really.

I used an old shop vac that my dad had (industrial strength) and it cleaned is computer better than any canned air. Unfortunately, I use canned air.

 

[Druckles]

I still have yet to find a can of compressed air. But then I've not really been looking very hard. I have purchased some microfibre cloths in a screen-cleaning kit, but I've not got around to applying it.

 

[Asus]

I would think you would worry about static with a vacuum cleaner.

 

[PvtRyan]

I would think you would worry about static with a vacuum cleaner.

This. I think I wrecked a PC once by cleaning it with a vacuum. I think I did at least, because when it was turned on some time later, almost every component was broken.

 

[Sanada]

When it's time to clean my case out I usually just take it outside and blow air into through a McDonald's straw. It's not good for me though because I usually over do it and end up light headed but it works quite well at getting the dust out.

 

[Raziaar]

I would think you would worry about static with a vacuum cleaner.

Exactly the reason I was thinking.

Oh and for compressed air... I have this compressed air can for airbrushing. I've used it and I've been able to use it tons of times compared to those specially made computer compressed air things that run out after like two uses. I think it's flammable, but in a well ventilated area it works incredibly well and lasts forever. I've used it thoroughly like 10 times and I'm still on the same can, so...

It's not yet blown up on me either with me spraying on a hot heatsink. haha.

When it's time to clean my case out I usually just take it outside and blow air into through a McDonald's straw. It's not good for me though because I usually over do it and end up light headed but it works quite well at getting the dust out.

I'd pay to see this!

Just be careful you don't spit down the straw.

 

[Saturos]

Can of compressed air + a small paint brush = win

A paintbrush is a bad idea. Unless you can find one specifically for computer dusting that won't transfer ESD. (electrostatic discharge) One static pop on your mb or expansion cards, and you PC/components are screwed. :|
Don't use one unless you want your snazzy Antec 600 case to function as a paperweight instead of a PC. It's best not to come in contact at all with the components and just use compressed air.

 

[Raziaar]

I hate how vulnerable our computers are. I hope technology has answers in the future to shield them from such careless things that can render them inoperable.

I would love to be able to dance around on a nice fluffy carpet wearing a thick woolen sweater and touch my finger to the mobo without worrying about it frying.

That is the dream!

 

[Nabobalis]

So anyone know any cheap sources of canned air? All I can find is quite expensive. Also is there multi-purpose wipes?

 

[-Psy-]

I would think you would worry about static with a vacuum cleaner.

Clean Case with Vacuum.
Clean Components with Compressed Air.

Never encountered any problems caused by static.

 

[Pesmerga]

So... you take out all the parts from the case before you clean it? Hurr?

 

[giant384]

So anyone know any cheap sources of canned air? All I can find is quite expensive. Also is there multi-purpose wipes?

frys,office depot,office max carry it. heck even walmart has compressed air in the computer hardware section.

 

[VirusType2]

they have big cans at wal mart now. Lasts much longer than the old stuff they used to stock. I've used the one i have almost a dozen times.

problem is they put inhalant bit-deterrent in it now, and Jesus - keep your mouth closed and evacuate your room. You get this bitter taste in your mouth if you are any where near it. tastes like 10,000 year old coffin air.

 

[Nabobalis]

Shame I don't have a walmart here. Need to find a staples somewhere or PC world. Ebuyer sells them at $12 a can, amazon has cheaper ones but P&P is about $9 on top. Hmmm!

 

[CyberPitz]

A paintbrush is a bad idea. Unless you can find one specifically for computer dusting that won't transfer ESD. (electrostatic discharge) One static pop on your mb or expansion cards, and you PC/components are screwed. :|
Don't use one unless you want your snazzy Antec 600 case to function as a paperweight instead of a PC. It's best not to come in contact at all with the components and just use compressed air.

I've been using paint brushes from hardware stores *the tiny ones, about an inch wide* for at least 5 years, and I've never heard of a soul 'popping' an electronic piece with one unless they had a battery attached to it.

BTW, you don't have to get a can of compressed air, just get a 40 dollar air compressor. WIN right there.

 

[VirusType2]

I've been wanting to get an air compressor for years.

I needed one when I was doing carpentry stuff for the nail guns

needed one working on my car for the impact wrench and inflating tires

wanted one to clean my computer. I mean the stupid canned air is expensive.


I just don't want to buy a cheap air compressor because they break

then again I don't want to spend a lot because I don't absolutely need one


I don't want it to be large because I want it be easily portable.


I've been waiting for a good portable one to go on sale basically.

 

[Saturos]

BTW, you don't have to get a can of compressed air, just get a 40 dollar air compressor. WIN right there.

My dad has a large, industrial air compressor out in his shop, but I'm too lazy to unplug my PC and haul it out there. Instead, I was going to get an air pig, which is basically a cheaper, less cumbersome air compressor without a 'compressor'. This way I can just charge it up with the larger one. Lighter, easier to store, and saves loads of $ on compressed air purchases fs.

 

[BoroVC]

You can by cans of compressed air from WH Smith. They cost around a fiver I think.

 

[VirusType2]

My dad has a large, industrial air compressor out in his shop, but I'm too lazy to unplug my PC and haul it out there. Instead, I was going to get an air pig, which is basically a cheaper, less cumbersome air compressor without a 'compressor'. This way I can just charge it up with the larger one. Lighter, easier to store, and saves loads of $ on compressed air purchases fs.

pretty cool. never even heard of that. I just need a compressor personally

 

[Kula Meenur]

You can by cans of compressed air from WH Smith. They cost around a fiver I think.

This. Also, why are you still a manhack, yet you joined in '05?

 

[Druckles]

You can by cans of compressed air from WH Smith. They cost around a fiver I think.

Useful to know, thanks.

 

[DreamThrall]

i use compressed air and a vacuum to make sure all the dust i'm blowing away doesn't resettle back in the case. i don't actually touch any of the components with the vacuum though

 

[BoroVC]

why are you still a manhack, yet you joined in '05?

I visit everyday but just in a lurking capacity. This isnt a very friendly place but it's more organised than the Steam forums!

My PC needs a good clean actually.....

 

[Saturos]

I visit everyday but just in a lurking capacity. This isnt a very friendly place but it's more organised than the Steam forums!

My PC needs a good clean actually.....

Says it all. Can't say I don't blame him really Koola Mena. I don't know why I still post here either tbh. The majority of members here are assholes. (Including some of the moderators)
I guess it's become a compulsive habit for me either way.
Plus, I know how to deal with assholes. Internet and IRL. Takes an asshole to deal with one I guess.

 

[DreamThrall]

I don't think everyone's that bad except Pesmerga, but I think he does it on purpose anyways.

 

[Pesmerga]

Wow no wonder I'm in a foul mood all the time- everyone seems to agree I'm some sort of asshole junkie. It's like raiding the monster's den with axes and pitchforks and wondering why HE KEEPS ATTACKING YOUR STUPID FVCKING VILLAGE.

 

[Saturos]

It's like raiding the monster's den with axes and pitchforks and wondering why HE KEEPS ATTACKING YOUR STUPID FVCKING VILLAGE.

I agree totally.

F**king warriors and knights need to stay the hell outta the dragon's den and quit trying to pilfer his gold. Then maybe he won't rape, kill, and plunder the villagers every season.

 

[CyberPitz]

*Thread renamed to -What we hate about hl2.net-*

Somebody I know went to the Flea Market and picked up an Air Compressor for $20. Probably the best purchase he's made D:

 

[Druckles]

Wow no wonder I'm in a foul mood all the time- everyone seems to agree I'm some sort of asshole junkie. It's like raiding the monster's den with axes and pitchforks and wondering why HE KEEPS ATTACKING YOUR STUPID FVCKING VILLAGE.

Goddamnit, Pesh. Why do you have to be such a bloody asshole!

 

[Barney Fife]

Wow! I never thought dusting a PC was like brain surgery. :upstare: Three pages and a McDonald's straw? Way to go kids.