Dell OptiPlex N User's Guide (.pdf) - Page 19

Chapter 2 Maintaining the System This chapter covers general maintenance procedures for your computer system and environmental conditions that can affect the system's performance. Preserving Data Everyone inadvertently deletes files at one time or another. Also, hard-disk drives can fail after extended use, so it is not a question of whether you will eventually lose data, but when. To avoid such loss of data, you should regularly make backup copies of all hard-disk drive files. Scheduling Backups Dell recommends that you back up the hard-disk drive at least once a week, with a daily backup of those files known to have been changed, such as your data files. Doing so ensures that you lose no more than a week's work and most likely only a day's work. Because your Dell OptiPlex N system is connected to a network, most of the backup process is automatic. Your network administrator should have a backup location created on a server and a process for you to follow when performing the backup. If you have questions about the backup process, contact your network administrator. Cleaning System Components Dell recommends keeping your work environment clean to reduce the amount of dust and dirt around the computer, thereby reducing the amount of contaminants drawn into the computer by the power supply fan. Contaminant buildup increases the computer's internal temperature and interferes with the operation of various system components. In particular, you should keep the exterior of your computer and monitor clean. A conventional monitor or keyboard cover minimizes the accumulation of dust and other debris inside the monitor and keyboard when they are not in use. Also, commercially available keyboard membrane covers make it possible to use the keyboard while providing protection against foreign particles. Recommended Tools and Accessories Use the following tools and accessories for cleaning the computer and the monitor: • Liquid dishwashing detergent Use a mixture of one part liquid dishwashing detergent and three parts water to clean the exterior of the computer, monitor, and keyboard. You can also add fabric softener to produce an antistatic solution that prevents dust from being attracted to the monitor screen. • Soft, lint-free cleaning cloth Moisten the cleaning cloth with the dishwashing detergent solution to clean the exterior of the computer system. • Small vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment Use the vacuum cleaner to remove dust and dirt from the exterior of the computer and keyboard. Maintaining the System 2-1