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…

Focusing on the 5-1/4" floppy disk commonly used with microcomputers, this guide to magnetic disks gives a description of their physical appearance and how they function as information storage devices and provides suggestions for their care and maintenance. A glossary of disk-related terms is included. (EAO)

To reduce the chance of buying computer lemons, school system purchasing offices should devise and issue their own specifications for prospective vendors. Specs should include both general and specific requirements for microcomputers, drives, and monitors; maintenance and repair services; and delivery and performance testing. A sidebar outlines…

A study of the energy usage for 20 St. Cloud (Minnesota) district buildings was completed by a firm of consulting engineers. For each building, the study established a Total Energy Index (TEI) composed of the fuel, electricity, and water consumed during the base line year, fiscal year 1977-78. In addition, the blueprints and any proposed…

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)

Proposes a solution to the problem of preventive microcomputer maintenance in libraries. The strategy involves a batch program, small paper form, simple WordPerfect macro, and on-diskette log form which saves time, quickly generates standard reports, increases efficiency, eliminates most paperwork, and offers the flexibility for modification and…

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…

Presents troubleshooting suggestions specifically intended for the Apple II microcomputer which have been developed from experiences working with children and pre- and inservice teachers. Guidelines for diagnosing problems focus on the mechanical functions of the microcomputer hardware. (MBR)

All 22 papers presented at the 1982 meeting of the Association of Physical Plant Administrators are contained in these proceedings. The papers are organized under four topical areas: resource management, energy management, maintenance programs, and physical plant management. Resource management area papers offer advice on establishing a day…

Offers suggestions for avoiding common errors in online microcomputer use. Areas discussed include learning the basics; hardware protection; backup options; hard disk organization; software selection; file security; and the use of dedicated communications lines. (CLB)

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)