Computer newbies: Cleaning a notebook - newbie mistake
Cleaning a notebook - newbie mistake
by aki.seven - 10/15/08 6:14 PMHello,
I think I performed a newb mistake today while cleaning my notebook.
I went through a complete shut-down procedure on my notebook. Then I unplugged all its attached devices. Then I unplugged it from its power source.
I then removed its faceplate and cleaned all the fans. I also rearrange the ram to check for "creeping."
I did all this, whilst forgetting to remove the notebook battery.
I didn't feel any shocks because I went through considerable steps to ensure I was static free.
My question - did leaving the battery in while I cleaned and rearranged the ram, cause any harm to the notebook?
Sorry for the newbish question.
No harm done . . .
by Coryphaeus - 10/16/08 6:03 AM In reply to: Cleaning a notebook - newbie mistake by aki.sevenProbably. Does it boot and run normally? If so . . .
(NT) Do you have a problem? state it
by Willy - 10/16/08 7:09 AM In reply to: Cleaning a notebook - newbie mistake by aki.sevenNot sure if it would cause a problem
by aki.seven - 10/16/08 3:54 PM In reply to: (NT) Do you have a problem? state it by WillyJust to get it straight, the worry of leaving the battery is the fear of shorting a component right?
Either way, everything seems fine with the notebook. All the devices check off as working and I did a full memory diagnostic and everything seemed fine..
Unless there's something else I should be checking?
Just....
by Willy - 10/17/08 8:12 AM In reply to: Not sure if it would cause a problem by aki.sevenThe only extra step is to remove the battery next time. 
Clean that area too and check the contacts is free of corrosion, it happens. I'm glad you're good to go.
adios -----Willy 
Less than newb...
by mwooge - 10/20/08 9:13 AM In reply to: Cleaning a notebook - newbie mistake by aki.sevenI don't have a loptop, so maybe there's something I don't understand. But the only thing that needs physical cleaning should be the fans, and maybe blow out any dust. Just remove the faceplate and blow it out with canned air. No more often that once a month, though six months should be adequate.
DO NOT rearrange the memory chips. That can cause problems and won't fix or prevent any. For that matter don't unplug or pull out anything inside the computer. Unplug the laptop first, but leave the battery in place.
If giving advice...best be sure it's correct before sharing
by VAPCMD - 10/20/08 10:52 AM In reply to: Less than newb... by mwoogeHere's an extract from the HP product manual about changing or adding RAM to a laptop. It clearly states more than once 'unplug the power cord and remove all batteries before installing a memory module.' Part of the text is below and the rest can be found at the link directly below.
http://h10032.www1.hp.com/ctg/Manual/c01083471.pdf
'The computer has one memory module compartment, which is located on the bottom of the computer. The memory capacity of the computer can be increased by upgrading the existing memory module in the memory module slot.
WARNING! To reduce the risk of electric shock and damage to the equipment, unplug the power cord and remove all batteries before installing a memory module.
CAUTION: Electrostatic discharge (ESD) can damage electronic components. Before beginning any procedure, ensure that you are discharged of static electricity by touching a grounded metal object.
NOTE: To use a dual-channel configuration when adding a second memory module, be sure both memory modules are the same size.
To add or replace a memory module:
1. Save your work and close all open programs.
NOTE: If the computer is in the Sleep state or in Hibernation, you must first exit Sleep or Hibernation before shutdown is possible. If you are not sure whether the computer is off or in Hibernation, turn the computer on by pressing the power button. Then shut down the
computer through the operating system.
2. Click Start, click the arrow next to the Lock button, and then click Shut Down.
3. Close the display.
4. Disconnect all external devices connected to the computer.
5. Unplug the power cord from the AC outlet.
6. Turn the computer upside down on a flat surface.
7. Remove the battery from the computer.
8. Loosen the 2 memory module compartment screws (1).
VAPCMD
one more caveat on ESD--
by bmwridr - 10/21/08 6:36 AM In reply to: If giving advice...best be sure it's correct before sharing by VAPCMDunfortunately, the damage from ESD doesn't alway show up immediately, it can take months or years.
you're fine
by icepop4who - 10/23/08 9:59 PM In reply to: Cleaning a notebook - newbie mistake by aki.sevenyou're fine. leaving the battery has nothing to do with static. You are dealing with something much bigger. You could have been electrocuted, but you probably won't die from it due to low amperes. So no worries if you are still breathing, but take out the battery next time.
reply
by aki.seven - 10/24/08 1:07 AM In reply to: you're fine by icepop4whoty, i'll make sure of that next time q;
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