From:TheBahamasWeekly.com

Computer Korner
How often should I Restart my Computer?
By Kristofferson Culmer
Sep 6, 2008 - 11:11:50 AM



Computer Maintenance

Good Day All. I know it’s been a while but I’m back now, and today I am offering advice about some things you can do to maintain your computer a little better so as to avoid potential problems. First, we’re going to look at a restart schedule for your computer.

Restart Times

So, have you ever wondered how often you should shut down your computer and then restart it? I don't know about all of you, but there's always been a question in my mind about how many times a week (or day or month, etc.) I should be restarting my computer. I mean, does every computer need a certain amount of rest time or are they more durable than we may think? Well, allow me to explain some of your options!

To be honest, there really isn't a certain time frame set up for computers when it comes to shutting down and restarting them. There's no minimum or maximum requirement for any computer. Now, if your computer is requesting you to restart it (for example, after an update), you should oblige, but otherwise, it's not going to harm your computer to leave it on for an extended period of time.

The only time I can think of when you should be restarting your computer on a regular basis is when you're having some system problems. The restart function often helps troubleshoot certain issues. Restarting your computer can really help fix any abnormal problems your computer may be experiencing as well. That probably happens more often than you think. So, while it's a good idea to shut down your computer every once in awhile (just to give it a breather), you don't have to do it every single day. I'd say once a week is a good rule to go by. Of course, do what you want, but I urge you to keep this tip in mind as well. That's all I have to say about that! Next, we’re going to look at some things you may want to keep away from your computer.

Cell Phones and Computers: Not a Good Combination

A little while ago I was sitting at my computer doing some work when my cell phone rang, I answered the call, and when I was done I put my cell phone on the computer tower (the box that contains your computer’s power supply, motherboard, processor, and all other important components): didn’t think much about it. A minute later my cell phone rang, and POOF; my computer cut off. It was one of the most frightening things that could happen at the time because I thought something shorted out. My computer wouldn’t turn on for a little while, but after a couple of tries and resetting the power supply, it restarted. So why did it cut off?

I’m not going to go into the physics of it, but plainly put, when the cell phone rang, the electro-magnetic field produced cut the flow of electricity through the power supply which caused the computer to cut off. Something else could have happened though; had my cell phone been turned 180 degrees (pointing the opposite direction) this would have caused a power surge which could have shorted out the motherboard or the processor. So a word of advice; avoid placing your cell phone on your computer tower, as bad things could happen. Also, you may want to keep fluids and food away from your computer, for obvious reasons. I’ll be back in a week or so with some more friendly and helpful words for you.    


Do you have a Computer Question? Email me!                          ~Kristofferson      

About the Author: Kristofferson Culmer was born in Nassau but grew up in Freeport for practically all of his life. He is a Magna Cum Laude graduate of Central Methodist University, holding Bachelor’s of Science Degrees in Computer Science and Business, and is currently pursuing a Masters of Science Degree in Computer Science. He has recently ventured out into the business world, starting his own business: Creative Web Solutions, specializing in web development, corporate branding, and marketing. Kristofferson enjoys working out and being active, meeting people, learning, and enjoying the simple things in life. Kristofferson can be contacted at kculmer@centralmethodist.edu .     

 

 

 



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