Tips to keep microcomputers working and, if malfunctioning, areas to investigate before calling outside repair service. (MLF)

Describes how to identify microcomputer problems and determine whether the services of a technician are required by troubleshooting, or using a process of elimination, without needing a technical background or special tools. Prevention methods and the use of diagnostic programs are also explained. (EM)

Outlining the major areas to be considered when deciding whether or not to computerize physical plant services in higher education institutions, the author points out the shortcomings of manual record keeping systems. He gives five factors to consider when deciding to computerize: (1) time and money, (2) extent of operation, (3) current and future…

This guide was started in 1986 as an effort to pull together a collection of several computer guides that had been written over the previous several years to assist schools in making simple computer repairs. The first of six sections contains general tips and hints, including sections on tool requirements, strobe disk speed adjustment, static…

This guide provides instructions for preventive maintenance and for making minor technical adjustments on microcomputers. General hints are provided for all microcomputers concerning static electricity reduction; use of dust covers; heat, magnetic fields, and floppy disks; and the use of halogen fire extinguishers. These are followed by…

A high school computer laboratory is also available for use by community members enrolled in a computer class. Equipment security is obtained by staggering the hours of teacher aides. Faculty and staff can take computers home on weekends. (MLF)

This brief description of the microcomputer service and maintenance system at Miami Dade Community College/North includes a series of hints, tips, and lists of information sources, suppliers, and regulatory codes that could prove helpful to school districts that wish to conduct on-site repair of computers. These include: (1) cleaning materials…

Describes several common problems that can interfere with the smooth functioning of microcomputers and outlines specific procedures that can be performed at home to correct faulty chips, circuit board and disk drive problems, and problems caused by excessive heat, static electricity, and magnetic fields. (MBR)

Advises administrators how to develop an energy master plan and how to reduce the usage of heating, ventilating, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems by means of a time clock, thermostat, and a scheduled preventive maintenance program. (MLF)

The microcomputer troubleshooter is regarded as a technically knowledgeable member of the team and is more active in equipment selection, site preparation, site supervision and preventive maintenance, and on-site training of operators, maintenance people, and programmers. Microcomputer troubleshooting can be incorporated into an electronics…

Computer expert Douglas Gale gives school personnel advice on obtaining small computers, with emphasis on cost effectiveness and maintenance considerations. (SJL)

This checklist provides guidance on how to measure adequacy of control and security of computer systems, identifies areas of risk, raises management and user awareness of their stewardship responsibilities, and reviews issues relative to system documentation, maintenance, integrity, and reliability. (MBR)

Careful control of temperature, humidity, and dust are essential measures to keep small computers operating. Guidelines are offered. (MLF)

Describes how teachers can diagnose and repair various common problems with their classroom computers without having to call in a repair person. The article also provides suggestions on how to prepare for a visit by a repair person to cut down on the time and expense of repairs. (SM)

To keep expensive computer software and hardware functioning requires good housekeeping, some protective equipment, ground rules, and supervision. Schools can arrange microcomputer maintenance through service agreements with computer manufacturers, pay-as-you-go service from local computer stores, or setting up their own maintenance and repair…