how to protect your computer from dust

[wizzardxexe]

after i opened up my desktop to add another cd drive in, i noticed that it had some dust on the fans and a few of the cards. i was wondering what are the best ways to clean dust and prevent it from getting in.


maybe stickied? this seems like info all newbie builders should know.

 

[FlyingCoyote]

The best way to remove dust form computer parts is spraying them with compressed air.
Newegg.com - Memorex 32028021 Air Duster Unscented, 1 Pack

you may want to look into getting filters for your computer-case

 

[snowsurfer]

If you can't find filters or don't want to spend more money, just use stockings over your intake fans, it will help a lot. The only final answer is regular cleaning. Every 6 months I take it all apart, use compressed air for getting the dust out of fins, etc.

Oh and by the way, no vacuum cleaners near the PC.

 

[wizzardxexe]

Why no vacuum cleaners? That seems like the perfect solution.

 

[Albo23]

You can easily damage and hit something. Also, don't vacuums create some type of static?

 

[wizzardxexe]

oh, but you can still vacuum around the pc right? =)

 

[snowsurfer]

Vacuum cleaner = static = death to semiconductors and such.

 

[FlyingCoyote]

oh, but you can still vacuum around the pc right? =)

Yes you can

ram, gpu, mobo, cpu are very sensitive to static

 

[Cluelessnoob]

I do it the slow way, open up the computer and grab a dry cloth or just use my hands and pick out whatever i can

 

[carnageX]

Like FlyingCoyote said, best way to do it is canned air. Or if you have access to an air compressor, that works too (just make sure water doesn't spray out first, as sometimes condensation can occur on an air compressor).

And you can also just use drier sheets for fan filters if you want. Cheap and work well. Just be advised any filter will restrict airflow somewhat, depending on how its made.