Everyone loves a shiny new computer screen. The crisp text, the vibrant colors, and the way it seems like a spotless window into the World Wide Web. Of course, that doesn’t last forever, and like any window, it tends to pick up its share of dust, dirt and blemishes.
Although many are wary about cleaning a sensitive electronic device the way they would a regular window in their home or office. With a little care, however, it’s easy to keep your computers monitor looking its best without doing any harm to it. All that needs to be done is to follow a few simple guidelines.
Screen Varieties
First of all, take into account the type of screen you are cleaning. A laptop computer or desktop computer with a LCD screen is typically not a glass surface. Instead, it is a type of plastic or other synthetic material. As a result, a glass cleaner, such as everyone’s favorite bright blue ammonia-based cleaner “Windex”, is often not the best choice. These can cause fading and other undesired effects on the display material.
On the other hand, when you are dealing with a CRT display with a glass face, Windex may be just the right choice.
Effective Cleaning Tips
The trick here is application. Don’t spray Windex onto the screen as though you were cleaning a window. Instead, wet a rag lightly with the cleaner. This makes sure that the liquid does not drip down below the bezel, also known as the faceplate, of the monitor. If that happens, the internal components can be exposed to liquid, which can cause permanent damage. You want to clean the glass and absolutely nothing else! Wipe the screen down like you would a window, but keep the liquid application very light.
Be sure to get the corners of the display, where lots of crucial icons like the system tray and Start menu are displayed. Once you’re finished, make sure the display is dry using a dry part of the rag. Paper towels will also work just fine. Just be sure the wiping material you use will not leave scratches.
Safely Cleaning LCD Displays
LCD displays need special attention because they are usually not made of glass. A specialized electronics cleaner is often a good choice for these displays. However, you can also clean them using a small amount of water on a rag. Like CRTs, do not allow this to become a saturation of liquid, or serious damage could result. You can make a very effective cleaning solution by mixing a small amount of rubbing alcohol and water together.
Once the screen is clean, be sure to remove the liquid as quickly as you can using a fresh rag or paper towel. The reason to do this is because alcohol and other harsh solvents, if allowed to sit on the screen surface for an extended period, can cause “staining” of the display including extreme bright spots and discoloration of the display. The last thing you want are cow spots on your expensive screen! By following these tips, you will have your monitor looking brand new just like it did the day you purchased it. Remember, the more often you clean your computer screens, the easier it will be each time. Good luck!
About the Author:
Information Technology Jobs and degree information at DegreesFinder.com
* DISCLAIMER: This article is provided for entertainment and general information purposes only. The author does not guarantee the accuracy or reliability of the information contained herein, and disclaims any responsibility for its use or misuse by you or any other person or entity.
About