Dell OptiPlex NX User Manual

Also see for OptiPlex N: Troubleshooting guide Service manual

Maintaining the System 2-1Chapter 2Maintaining the SystemThis chapter covers general maintenance proceduresfor your computer system and environmental conditionsthat can affect the system’s performance.Preserving DataEveryone inadvertently deletes files at one time oranother. Also, hard-disk drives can fail after extendeduse, so it is not a question of whether you will eventuallylose data, but when. To avoid such loss of data, youshould regularly make backup copies of all hard-diskdrive files.Scheduling BackupsDell recommends that you back up the hard-disk drive atleast once a week and perform a daily backup of thosefiles known to have been changed, such as your datafiles. Doing so ensures that you lose no more than aweek’s work and most likely only a day’s work.Because your Dell OptiPlex N or OptiPlex NX system isconnected to a network, most of the backup process isautomatic. Your network administrator should have abackup location created on a server and a process for youto follow when performing the backup. If you have ques-tions about the backup process, contact your networkadministrator.Cleaning System ComponentsDell recommends keeping your work environment cleanto reduce the amount of dust and dirt around the com-puter, thereby reducing the amount of contaminantsdrawn into the computer by the power supply fan.Contaminant buildup increases the computer’s internaltemperature and interferes with the operation of varioussystem components.In particular, you should keep the exterior of your com-puter and monitor clean.A conventional monitor or keyboard cover minimizes theaccumulation of dust and other debris inside the monitorand keyboard when they are not in use. Also, commer-cially available keyboard membrane covers make itpossible to use the keyboard while providing protectionagainst foreign particles.Recommended Tools and AccessoriesUse the following tools and accessories for cleaning thecomputer and the monitor:• Liquid dishwashing detergentUse a mixture of one part liquid dishwashing deter-gent and three parts water to clean the exterior of thecomputer, monitor, and keyboard. You can also addfabric softener to produce an antistatic solution thatprevents dust from being attracted to the monitorscreen.• Soft, lint-free cleaning clothMoisten the cleaning cloth with the dishwashingdetergent solution to clean the exterior of the com-puter system.• Small vacuum cleaner with a brush attachmentUse the vacuum cleaner to remove dust and dirt fromthe exterior of the computer and keyboard.