Dell Dimension XPS 50 Reference Manual page 23

support.dell.com
Tape and Zip drives are convenient and affordable devices that can back up data at
rates of up to 1.6 megabytes per second (MB/sec) and can often run unattended. Dell
recommends these drives and their associated backup software for use as system
backup devices. Depending on how many data files you have, you can also use dis-
kettes as backup devices.
With thousands of known viruses and with the prevalence of data transfers over tele-
communications lines, Dell recommends that you use virus-scanning software to
protect your computer. Regularly update your virus-scanning software as described in
the software documentation and load updates immediately.
Use the virus-scanning software before installing any software from unlicensed
sources, either downloaded from the Internet or on diskettes. Making regular backups
as discussed in the previous section provides insurance in case a virus does infect
your system.
As it draws in air to cool the computer, the power supply fan also draws dust and
other particles into the computer. This contaminant buildup increases the system's
internal temperature and interferes with component operation.
To minimize these conditions, Dell recommends keeping your work environment
clean. In particular, you should regularly clean your computer system and use com-
mercially available drive-cleaning kits to remove contaminants inside externally
accessible drives.
You may also want to purchase monitor and keyboard covers to protect against dust
and debris.
Use the following tools and accessories for cleaning the computer system:
Wrist grounding strap to reduce the effects of electrostatic discharge (ESD)
Liquid dishwashing detergent
Isopropyl (rubbing) alcohol
Soft, lint-free cleaning cloth
Nonabrasive diskette-drive head-cleaning kit that contains pretreated diskettes in
individually sealed packages
Small vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment
Introduction 1-5