Motherboard Maintenance

The motherboard of desktop computers is one of the neglected parts when doing computer maintenance. In fact, most of the maintenance tips suggested for desktop computers is focused on software.
A computer's hardware such as the motherboard is likewise a very important area to look into when doing maintenance works. The motherboard houses the vital electronic circuits that keep the desktop computer working. It is here where the computer's microprocessor, the random access memory (RAM), the video card, the sound card, the LAN card, among other removable parts are located.
So what are some important maintenance tips for better motherboard performance thus overall computer efficiency? Here are important things to do and look out for to extend the life of your motherboard:

1. Sweep off dust that builds on the motherboard. Dust build up inside the computer's casing despite it's covering because the power fan or other accessory fans sucks in dirt from outside together with the air used to cool off the insides of the casing. When dust picks up moisture, the sensitive parts may short-circuit and get damaged in the process. Use only a soft paintbrush to clean the motherboard taking care not to brush too hard on small parts. Do this in a well-ventilated area where you can easily dispose of the dust.


Fig. 1. Busted and leaking capacitors.

2. Look for swelling, busted or leaking capacitors. When you notice that some of the resistors appear to be expanded or swelling, this is a cause for alarm. It is a sign of impending failure of the motherboard. Busted or leaking capacitors will stop your desktop computer from working (Fig. 1). This should be replaced with resistors of the same ratings as soon as possible.




 Fig. 2. Motherboard

3. Detach the removable cards (sound card, video card, LAN card, etc.) and clean off the copper connectors with an eraser. Just make sure you have discharge static electricity from your body before doing so. You can do this by placing your hands on a grounded metallic object. Replace the removable parts carefully, avoiding the use of unnecessary force. You should hear these parts click in place.

Fig. 3. Lan Card

4. Check if your CMOS battery is still working. When the stored electrical energy of the CMOS battery (that detachable coin-looking silver thing in the motherboard) is already used up, the date displayed in your desktop computer will be wrong. A failed battery will also prevent your computer from executing some commands which need correct date input such as when logging in to an internet site.

Fig. 4. CMOS battery

5. Check if the fans, especially the fan of your video card, is still working. A non-working video card fan will damage the video card. Ventilation prevents heat build-up in your desktop computer as well the detachable parts. A cool environment will keep your motherboard and its parts working in top condition.

Fig. 5. Video card fan

Regular monthly maintenance of your desktop computer following these 5 motherboard maintenance tips will prevent costly repairs or upgrades.

CTC for you now and future of computer  life