KICS - Keep it clean, sweetie.

Jul 27, 2007 14:58 GMT  ·  By

Sometimes I wonder if there is a piece of computer hardware that does not attract dust in industrial size quantities. Please note that I did not say "dust free" or anything. I know it is not possible, but oh, how I'd like at least only hardware component inside or outside my computer to stay really, really clean for at least two or three days.

Just like older style CRT monitors, the LCD panels (or screens as they are sometimes called) act as dust magnets all the time, not mentioning that nasty habit most people have of leaving fingerprints all over the visual area.

Unlike CRT monitors that have a tough glass screen that supports just every type of cleaning agent you may dream of using, the LCD panels are much more fragile and scratch prone. As they have the screen coated in an anti glare substance, it is important to remember to use only cleaning substances that will not dissolve that. So no alcohol, detergents or the more traditional soap and water approach, also because the screen itself is soft and easily damageable, never use an abrasive substance for cleaning, always stick to soft tissues and never ever use a scrubber.

Also a good point to remember before you start cleaning up your LCD screen is that it has to be unplugged from the power grid. The best solution to clean an LCD panel is to use a soft cloth or a paper tissue and first remove all the accumulated dust. Then, if there are dust spots or fingerprints, use a few drops of clean water or an approved cleaning solution. Be careful with the water or cleaning solutions, as electronic components (LCD panels included) are not great friends with them. Always wipe clean the screen and do not let liquid accumulate on its margins. And that's about it.