[aarhus2004]

Computer System Maintenance - Software, Hardware, Case, Monitor, Keyboard and Mouse and so on - or?

Having searched TSG for 'computer maintenance' and checked through the ten pages x 10 (results each) and found nothing in detail - indeed nothing specifically under that subject heading, I am left wondering if the subject merits any particular attention.

A Google search (same terms) was also very patchy and unrewarding.

Were I a beginner I might draw the conclusion that such a thing might be best left until I had learned how to switch on and off.

But I cannot believe that I am alone in thinking that maintenance, done in a routine manner, can be worthwhile. I expect many of us undertake it without much thought and no doubt we all differ in the particular.

TSG offers much to help those with problems overcome them. I have no idea what percentage of problems encountered are the direct result of poor maintenance. But to find not a single comprehensive post on the subject does strike me as strange and something, perhaps, in need of remedy.

It is not the intention of this thread to provoke recommendations for worthwhile maintenance but is, rather, to provide the opportunity for responses which may (or may not) prompt the exploration of the value of offering - somewhere on TSG - a broad yet deep assessment of the details of maintaining one's computer system in all it's parts.

[dannyboyfx]

maintenance? never heard of it.

I would call maintenance, not puting m80s in your case, and trying not to download spyware. and oiling up the ol, USB ports, makes for faster transfer

[hewee]

Keep your software up todate.
http://www.dozleng.com/updates/index.php?act=calendar

Tutorials
http://www.dozleng.com/updates/index.php?showforum=15

CoU-niversity
http://www.dozleng.com/updates/index.php?showforum=128

'computer maintenance'
http://www.google.com/search?hl=en&q...=Google+Search

Stay away from the Sponsored Links because you can get into trouble with bad software.
http://www.spywarewarrior.com/rogue_anti-spyware.htm

[Space Cowboy]

The only real maintanence that I ever did was to keep it clean and cool. I am hearing now that it is a good idea to clean off and reapply your thermal compound about every 6 months or so. Get a can of compressed air and with the power off blow out the case as needed. I don't like to keep my computer on the floor cause it sucks in to much dirt. Also you probably shouldn't smoke around the computer.. Plays with the optic's in your CD/DVD drives.

The biggest thing is to keep it clean and cool. I like windex for cleanin it up. Seems to leave the least residue. Spray it on the rag (old tshirt) NOT the computer.

[GoJoAGoGo]

Perhaps we could start a thread in the All Other Software Forum and also one in the Hardware Forum and stick them on top of the page. These threads could contain necessary maintenance procedures that should be done on a PC on a regular basis.

[aarhus2004]

GoJoAGoGo.

Thanks for the input, Joe. I think that gives us a starting point in terms of where and how to begin threads on this subject.

At this juncture I suggest we leave the Apple/Mac folk to their own devices. The question of laptops and all the other devices smaller than PC Desktops (ipods etc) and their maintenance in software/hardware terms, could be an inclusion - if the feedback about such items is available.

I would like the thread subject headings in both the All Other Software and Hardware forums to be identical in order that a Search in TSG, for 'computer maintenance' would reveal both the 'gathering of input' threads and the eventual sticky ones.

I propose, when we reach agreement here, we start searching for input in All Other Software and in Hardware with a thread in each called:

"PC System Maintenance - Input Please". (or other according to input here).

Would you, Joe, be prepared to get the ball rolling in terms of the All Other Software forum? I am willing to do the same in the Hardware one. I also think it would be great if we could launch the input threads more or less simultaneously - what do you think? Prior to launching those threads we can continue the debate here unless it is felt to be inappropriate.

And thanks, dannyboyfx, hewee and Space Cowboy for your responses - hopefully you will each (and others too) remain (become) involved.

Cheers.

[JohnWill]

I don't see a problem with starting the threads, but sticking them to the top of the page may be problematic. If we let everyone stick a thread they thought was important, we'd have three or four pages of stickies in each forum!

[aarhus2004]

Hello John,

I really don't know what-is the policy on Sticky threads but I can understand your expressed view of the matter.

Perhaps, if the proposed input threads prove of value, approval for a Sticky or Stickies could be sought at that time? Or the MODs could sift through the ideas and come up with a definitive Sticky or Stickies. Or none!

Cheers.

[Rockn]

Why not post a few of your maintenance tips? I am not really sure what you mean by "poor maintenance" practices might causal in someone having computer problems. Lack of knowledge or experience is the biggest factor for the majority of the problems encountered here.

[aarhus2004]

Rockn,

Thanks for the feedback. Nothing I might offer you would likely be revelatory. Perhaps "lack of knowledge or (and?)inexperience" are the biggest factors in problems seen here but, at base, I believe lack of routine maintenance is inseparable from lack of knowledge and further, that experience speaks volumes about an improved state of affairs (vis-a-vis 'problems') in that it surely includes maintenance.

It would be helpful if you were to share further when the mentioned threads are begun since I assume you have lots of experience. And do some maintenance?

The "tips" you refer to I want to keep for the threads to be started elsewhere - as pointed out above - and not engaged in here.

Cheers.

[Rockn]

I do NO maintenance other than the occaisional cleaning, defrag and that's it. The unwillingness to share tips of your own to show their validity or possible usefullness speaks volumes. Don't be so selfish...c'mon and share!!

[aarhus2004]

Originally Posted by Rockn

I do NO maintenance other than the occaisional cleaning, defrag and that's it...

Hello Rockn,

Check the threads when they become available in All Other Software" and in "Hardware" then offer your input. I don't have the definitive answers which is why I hope the threads will be worthwhile.

Check your brake fluid in the meantime.

I have a better idea. Why don't you start a thread somewhere and call it "Who needs computer maintenance?".

[Gpa]

By surfing one gets the idea that there are application/programs everywhere that can do miracles...after the fact. Is there a certifiable trusted "consumer" guru that can list reliable software that is tested and trusted to keep your computer a clean mean machine? It might even be broken down to OS and thus any additional program could not be added unless it is cerified to operate with all other programs on the computer. It would be such that absolutely nothing could cause problems because the OS programs would not allow it or would adjust the system to prevent problems from arising. The tech geeks could continue to "play" with the roll of the dice but the normal everyday ignorant user would be protected. I would buy stock in that research.

[aarhus2004]

Hello Gpa,

Thanks for the input. I imagine that your thinking is probably the ideal which may well be the goal of all software creators. It is, as you understand, futuristic. There are many elements visible in todays OSs which hint at this ideal state of affairs. However progress is not limited to the creative-positive but also, and running in tandem, are the creative-negative elements.

In the meantime we, the ordinary users of the technology, must make our own decisions. Many of these involve the way in which we use what we have. Others, and these are my interest, are how can we maintain our systems ( including both the software and hardware) so that running well and extending the life of what we have is our hope and goal.

If one is financially able and inclined to replacing one's system as and when the latest developments become available, routine computer system maintenance is probably the least of one's interests and/or concerns.

Your input much appreciated, Gpa.