Essential Tools You Need to Have When Working on a PC

By: Gary Hendricks

Whenever you start working on a PC, you need to ensure you have
the correct set of tools. I really hate it when I'm in the
middle of installing a card or upgrading the motherboard and
there's a missing screwdriver or cable tie.

So here's a short list of essential tools you need to have when
working on a PC. Remember to bring them along so that you have
an easier time.

Philips Screwdriver

Gosh, this is the most important tool for me as a computer
hardware enthusiast. All computer parts are connected by screws
- from add-on card slots to drive bays and PC casings. Remember
to get a screwdriver that does not have a magnetic tip -
magnetized objects inside your PC may damage some circuits.

Cable Ties

If you're like me, you'll hate the sight of untidy cables.
Whenever I open up an old PC, I just roll my eyes at the mess of
wires inside. Here's where the humble cable tie (also known as
zip ties) came in really handy. Organize those untidy cables
into bundles, route them through specific paths and tie them up.
Not only does this improve the look of your computer's insides,
it also helps airflow.

Tweezers

I always remember these. How are tweezers useful when working
with a computer? Well, when you accidentally drop a screw into
the deep, dark regions of the motherboard! Use those tweezers to
reach into tight spots or for retrieving that lost screw. I also
tend to use tweezers for removing or changing jumpers on hard
drives, optical drives and the motherboard.

Lint Free Cloth

If you have an old computer, you can be sure dust is accumulated
inside that PC. This can cause lots of problems - in particular,
it can clog up fans and air slots, raising the PC's temperature.
Using a lint free cloth to wipe off that dust from your case or
components.

Grounding Strap

If you've read my guide on maintaining a PC, you'll be well
aware that static electricity can cause severe damage to
electrical components in your computer. Prevent this by using a
grounding strap. This is usually a Velcro strap with a metal
contact to help discharge any static charge built up on your PC.

Windows Installation CD and Boot Disk

Many people forget that the original Windows installation CD and
its accompanying boot disk is a very important toolkit for a
computer enthusiast. The Windows installation CD is very useful
whenever the operation system asks for a Windows driver. The
boot disk, on the other hand, is very useful if the computer
fails to boot up. If you don't have a boot disk, check out this
link which offers free boot disk images for download.

Toolkits

I like to have a big tool kit to store all of the above things.
It also makes me feel like a handy computer guy too . A tool kit
helps to keep all your important tools in a central place so you
never forget anything.

Conclusion

Well, you now know what tools to bring along when next working
with your PC. Remembering to bring these tools will help your
maintenance or setup job that much easier. Good luck!

About the author:
Gary Hendricks runs a hobby site on building computers. Visit
his website at Build-Your-Own-
Computers.com for tips and tricks on assembling a PC, as
well as buying good computer components.