PC Covers – Q & A on Computer Dust Protection
Posted: Tuesday, November 17, 2009
by Joe Otto
Computer Dust Solutions
PC covers may seem like an unnecessary hassle: and who needs that? If you've ever seen the inside of a used computer case even one from a seemingly clean office you know the answer! Read on for more answers to common questions about dust protection.
Don't personal computers come with some kind of dust protection?
Unfortunately, PC covers are not usually standard equipment with the purchase of a new desktop computer. To protect your investment, you've got to consider your own circumstances. Vinyl PC covers might be fine for overnight protection in a clean office. Owners of "high-dust" work spaces like factories need to take extra steps to protect computers that need to run in more dusty environments.
Even though you can't see dust in the air around you, be assured that it's constantly there. Over time, as the cooling fans suck air through your PC, dust will stick to the electronics inside by static charge. As it builds up in a thickening layer, it will definitely become visible and dangerous!
What harm can a little dust do?
When dust coats the electronics inside your office PCs, it will insulate them and eventually prevent the fans from properly keeping them cool. Overheating is the actual "cause of death" in many electronic systems.
What can I do to extend PC life?
Prevent dust buildup from becoming a problem. There are many kinds of PC covers available:
- Vinyl PC covers - good for overnight protection in a relatively clean home or office; must be taken off when the computer is in use.
- Vent filters - If you can find these small filters in a material that doesn't impede airflow, they may be effective in filtering out some of the dust entering through airflow ports. Replace them often!
- ShopShield PC covers - These are the computer dust covers that stay in place even while you continue to use the computer and filter all the air that contacts your computer.
- Dedicated airtight computer cabinets - The traditional "factory floor" method of computer protection, sealed cabinets with their own air conditioning systems; may not be practical for small business owners.
Even though it's often invisible, dust is the number one enemy of high tech PC components. It's easy to forget about, unless you watch for the warning signs of a computer running at high temperatures and by then, it may be too late.
Download a free report from Computer Dust Solutions on The Effects of Dust on Computer Electronics and Mitigating Approaches to learn more about PC covers.
Joe Otto is a consultant for http://www.computerdust.com/.
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