What is in a Compute Repair Tool Kit?
Personal computers are like any other piece of complicated consumer electronics in that they occasionally break down or need to be upgraded. Although there is less danger and the task is far less complicated, repairing computers can still be much like surgery. Because of this, it is necessary to have access to the right tools to do the job correctly.
Wrist Wrap – An anti-static wrist wrap is the most necessary component in a computer repair tool kit. It is used to ground your body before you touch sensitive computer parts that could be damaged by minor static electric shocks coming from your hands.
Parts Box – Having the right computer repair tools means little if they are hard to find. A case or shelf with parts organizers is the second best tool to have, because it helps you to know exactly where your tools are.
Screwdrivers - Screwdrivers are the most common part found in a repair tool kit. Savvy computer repair experts use a variable-head screwdriver that allows them to change the size and type of screwdriver heads, from flat-heads to Phillips, without having to switch to another whole screwdriver. In addition, it allows you to change the size of your screwdriver heads at will. This is an absolute necessity due to the different types and sizes of screws that are found in a computer unit.
Lamps – Adequate lighting over the workspace is an often-overlooked tool in the science of computer repair and upgrades. Since components inside the computer chassis may be found hiding in the shadow of the case or other peripherals inside the system, excellent lighting can dramatically reduce the difficulty of dealing with these parts.
Recovery Software – Operating system reinstallation disks, hard drive data recovery programs and antivirus software are tools that all repair technicians and computer owners should have. If a computer comes without a recovery disk, one should be made as soon as it is booted up for the first time.
Tweezers – If a screw comes loose during the process of removal, a pair of tweezers is an invaluable tool. It can also be used to pick up other things that are stuck inside the unit.
Replacement Parts – If a part inside a computer fails or breaks, a quick way to repair it would be to simply replace it. Spare parts can also be used to eliminate a component that is suspect in a computer malfunction.
Replacement Cables – When cables break or wear out, data or electricity cannot get through, and this results in major malfunctions within a computer system. Having replacement cables (such as USB or network cables) on hand is a necessity, if for no other reason than to eliminate them as the cause of a particular problem.
Canned Air – Few things are more effective in blowing out dust balls and hidden dust in a computer system than canned air. The accumulation of dust is a serious threat to a computer, because it can result in short circuits and blocked ventilation, which results in damage from heat. Canned air can push out dust from practically any spot inside the computer, and even reveal an infestation of dust that the eye cannot see, such as inside the power supply.