Dust Bunnies!

The patient: A desktop PC

The problem: CPU fan error message on startup

The investigation: When I opened the computer's tower, the CPU fan was barely turning and I discovered a large family of dust bunnies living inside

The solution: I removed all of the components including the logic board and cleaned the case and components. I installed a new CPU fan on the logic board while it was out of the case and then reassembled the system. Problem solved.

Many computer towers spend their time on the floor and collect all kinds of debris, including dust, carpet fibers and pet dander. It's pulled into the tower by the cooling fans. These fans are low torque high rpm units designed to draw the least amount of current from the power supply while moving air through the case to cool the components. The dust and debris can collect on the fan blades and and can work its way into the motors. Over time, the motor bearings wear out and the fan stops. Excess heat can be trapped in the case causing the system to become unstable or fail.

You can help prevent the problem by frequently vacuuming the area around the tower and the outside of the case using a duster attachment.

CAUTION: Do not open the case and try to vacuum the interior. The components could be damaged by an electrostatic discharge from the vacuum or its attachments. Cleaning the inside of the case should be done by a qualified technician wearing the appropriate electrostatic grounding protection.

The lesson? An ounce of prevention...

Time on task: 2 hours

dbr ~ TeqOne

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