Computer Repair Experts in Phoenix, Arizona. my PC Techs Presents:

When we repair a computer at my PC Techs, one of the first items on our list of work to perform is dust removal. In Arizona, dust is a big problem and coats everything. When a new computer comes into our shop we never really know just how much dust we are going to see! It’s always a surprise when you “pop the case” of a computer for the first time.

Here are a few pictures of the inside of a case that recently came into our workshop.

Over time, dust accumulates inside your computer case

Over time, dust can cause internals components to overheat, due to lack of air circulation

Dust is a slow computer killer. Dust prevents normal air circulation through the computer case. The case draws cooler air from outside the case through the various airflow openings of the case. The lack of circulation caused by dust will often result in internal component overheating and failure. These include video cards, hard drives, computer processor and other internal hardware.

Common intake openings of the case include the front and the sides of the case, while exit openings include fans usually mounted in the rear of the case and the power supply.

Keeping these openings clear of debris can help to maintain the proper airflow around the case. A good practice is to also maintain four to six inches of clearance from the computer to any object which could block airflow.

In conclusion, dusting out your case every month can help to extend the life of your computer – instead of it suffering the fate of death by dust.

A hard drive is a small box inside of computer equipment that may contain sensitive information such as usernames, passwords, credit card information, social security numbers, etc. If you are upgrading to a new computer (desktop computer, laptop, office copier, etc.) always remove and destroy the hard drive before selling, donating, or recycling any computer equipment! Failure to destroy the hard drive before giving the computer away could result in sensitive information ending up in the hands of the new owner, who will then be able to copy old files and go through your personal information stored there.

There are many options available if you are looking to dispose of an old hard drive. Some professional destruction methods include:

• Shredding it using a local shredding company
• Taking it to a computer recycling company
• Mailing it to a hard drive destruction specialist
• Bringing it in to a local computer shop that will dispose of it

These methods are ideal, but they usually cost money. Professional destruction of a hard drive could cost $70 or more in some areas! So what is a low cost method to dispose of the hard drive and keep your personal data safe if you are low on funds? Considering you have all the right tools, this method won’t cost you a dime and is a very secure way to get rid of a hard drive while keeping your data secure.

Step 1: Wipe it! Wiping a hard drive in essence destroys the data by writing over it with random characters. There are many free utilities to help, a good one is Active@ KillDisk. You can download the free utility from their website, click: Active@ KillDisk. This free software overwrites all of the data on your old hard drive with random characters and WILL DESTROY ALL OF YOUR DATA! Be sure you have performed a complete backup and have transferred the data from your old hard drive to your new system before wiping it.

Step 2: Remove it! Physically remove the hard drive from the system. This is usually the easy part, you’ll just need a screwdriver and a little patience. Keep in mind that you will still be able to sell or donate the old computer without a hard drive missing, just be sure to let the new owners know in advance that they will need a new hard drive and operating system.

Step 3: Drill it! If you plan on using the old hard drive again, skip this step. Otherwise it’s best to physically destroy the old hard drive just to be 100% certain that the old data is completely destroyed. This step is not only fun, depending on how much personal data you had on the old drive it can also help you sleep better at night.

Wearing protective goggles, gloves, and a dust mask for your mouth and nose take a drill and a metal drill bit to the drive. You’ll want to drill through the drive completely from one side to the other, and you’ll want to do this multiple times. Two important areas for you to drill through are the platters and the controller board. See examples in the below images.

All done!

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my PC Techs has created a new business page on Google+! Head over and circle us:

https://plus.google.com/+Mypctechs-Phoenix-AZ

Are you a Technology Junkie and like to play with different kinds of devices?
Do you like to tinker with computers and load the latest software releases?
Have you ever used a Mac?
Do you upgrade to the latest smart phone when it is released?
Are you the the guy they call when friends and family have computer problems?

If you’ve answered yes to all the above, we are looking for you!

We are seeking a friendly Business Technology Consultant. You should have excellent customer service skills and enjoy helping customers with technology challenges. You will be visiting clients throughout the Phoenix metro area.

Submit your resume today to jobs@mypctechs.com, we will be scheduling interviews immediately.

No phone calls, submit your resume for review. Must be local to the Phoenix area.

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Have you considered upgrading the technology for your office? Many companies have been holding off on expensive computer upgrades for several years while, slashing workforce at the same time. This is a potent mix that has a negative impact on office productivity. If you are getting by with a small staff and old computer systems now is a great time to upgrade and improve worker efficiency.

As a Dell Registered Partner, my PC Techs can help you acquire new computers and servers for your office at 10% or 20% prices lower than our competitors. We never mark up the cost of hardware or software, and pass all of our savings on to YOU. https://www.mypctechs.com/dell.php

Do you need $20,000 in new computer equipment? Get it now for only $14,000. We have provided this level of savings to our clients for several years.

After an upgrade, what happens to your old computer equipment? We help you put the old computer equipment to good use. One Arizona company has set a great example for others, take a look at this article: http://news.yahoo.com/reliance-build-inc-donates-computers-k-4-charter-070736628.html

As discussed in the article linked above, donating your used computer equipment to a local non-profit in need is a great way to help out your community. my PC Techs currently knows of two Arizona non-profits that are looking for donations of computer equipment. If you know of anyone looking to upgrade have them give us a call (602) 456-0150. We will help them save money on their new equipment and put all of their old computer systems to great use. Everyone wins in this scenario.

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