Sceptre S6900 User Manual page 143

Cleaning the Diskette Drive
In order to avoid causing damage to the sensitive read/write heads and diskette
surface, it is important to prevent dust particles and dirt from entering the disk
drive slot. If you suspect that the floppy disk drive needs cleaning, you can
purchase a disk drive cleaning kit from your computer dealer. These kits
usually consist of cleaning fluid and a diskette case that contains a disk-shaped
piece of absorbent material or fabric. Apply a few drops of cleaning fluid to
dampen the fabric and then insert the cleaning diskette into the drive. When
the drive reads the cleaning diskette, the fabric rotates under the read/write
head, removing any dirt or dust particles.
Occasional usage of these cleaning diskettes is a good
way to remove dirt from the floppy drive's read/write
head. However when used too often, the fabric can
over-abrade the drive head, causing more harm than
good. Normal operation of the floppy drive in a dry,
dust-free environment is actually an efficient self-
cleaning process. Do not use disk drive cleaning kits
unless you suspect a problem with the drive. If you
have trouble reading a diskette, make sure the problem
is not with the diskette itself.
Caring for CD-ROM Discs
Compact discs are composed of high-density media that must be handled with
care and kept clean to ensure that they remain readable. Keep in mind the
following to ensure their reliability.
= Always keep your CD enclosed to prevent dust.
= Hold CDs by their edges. Do not touch the surface of the CD.
= Keep the CD surfaces from touching or scraping anything. Do not flex or
bend the CD.
= Do not use benzene, thinners, or other cleaners to clean the CD. Use a CD-
ROM cleaner kit designed specifically for CDs.
= Do not store or place CDs in direct sunlight.
Chapter 8: Caring for your Notebook
131