Fisher does a good job of reminding us of the basics of computer repair. Using the KISS method when applying these tips will keep you and your hardware safe.

by Tim Fisher

In addition to being an afternoon of great fun, PC repair can save you loads of time and money. No amount of fun, money or time is enough, though, to compromise your safety.

Keep these important tips in mind as you work inside your computer: Remember to Flip the Switch Always, always, always remember to turn the power off before servicing anything. This should always be your first step. Do not even open the computer case unless the power is turned off. Many computers have a number of lights inside to serve certain functions so check to see that no lights are on. If any are still on then the power is probably not completely off.

Unplug for Extra Safety As a second precaution, it is wise to unplug the computer from the wall or power strip. If there was any doubt as to whether the computer was off before, it’s settled now.

Avoid Capacitors Capacitors are miniature electronic components contained in many of the parts inside a PC. Capacitors can store electric charge for a short while after the power is turned off so it’s a wise decision to wait a few minutes after pulling the plug before working on your PC.

Never Service the Non-Serviceable When you come across labels that say “No serviceable components inside” don’t take it as a challenge. Some parts of a computer are just not meant to be repaired, even by most professional computer repair persons. You will usually see this warning on power supply units but you may also see them on monitors, hard drives, optical drives and other dangerous or highly sensitive components.

Tim Fisher is a computer systems support specialist for a Fortune 50 company and co-owner of a technology services company for small businesses. Fisher can be contacted at pcsupport.guide@about.com.

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