TechDish: Laptop Survival Tips

Posted on: Fri, 12/04/2009 - 10:09 — us104_techdish

We've seen a tremendous amount of laptops coming in for hardware failures over the years. And, many comments from our customers considering a new computer purchase are fears that a "laptop just won't last as long" as a desktop PC. While this may be true in principal anyway, there are some good practices you can get into that will help you get as much mileage out of your laptop as possible.

How to get long life out of your laptop

The following tips are very simple things you can do that will extend the life of your laptop! Sure, there's always the possibility that you bought yourself a lemon; but even lemons can get some decent mileage when properly taken care of.

1. A laptop is a computer—treat it that way!

   Don't throw it, drop it, or kick it around, and make sure you keep it in a safe place when you're not using it. The floor and/or couch is NOT a "safe place"! There are many options available for storage/carrying bags—even backpack-style bags—use them. These bags are padded and are designed to fit your laptop nice and snug so even if the bag is jostled, the laptop stays in one place.

   Also, keep track of that power adapter. They are expensive to replace, and very easy to break. Keep them out of the way of being tripped over and stepped on; don't leave them plugged in when they're not in use; and be gentle when unplugging them from the laptop and the wall.

2. Keep it free of dust

   Here in the shop we've pulled out mouse-sized balls of lint from laptop cooling fans that could have easily lead to serious heat issues and hardware failure. The best way to keep dust out of your laptop is to use it on clean surfaces. Don't leave it running on the floor, couch, blankets, etc. Use it on a desk or tabletop to keep dust and lint from building up.

   Periodically, blow out your keyboard and fan area with canned air. This should be done in short bursts from a distance of at least 2 inches, holding the can upright.

3. Be aware of heat issues

   Even though we call them "laptops", they should never be used on your lap, set on blankets, or your bed—even if it makes you comfortable. Remember, a laptop cycles air up from the bottom; if you are plugging up that circulation with fabrics, you're going to be running very hot.

   Use a desk-like surface. There are many options available for this that'll work, the key is to find something that'll work for you. The other key is to use a surface that is as close to a desktop or tabletop as possible. This author has a piece of plywood cut from scrap that works perfectly fine!