Computer repair tools

Hey Guys,
I have a small backpack full of my repair "toys". I've heard of the anti-static vacuums. I'm not going for professional repair just minor to moderate things for friends. Should I invest in one of these? In the past I have used a regular vacuum to clean an older one of mine with no repercussions as to static discharge and what not.
Thanks,
Spock96

 

Hi

I personally use a regular vacuum cleaner and canned air to clean out my pretty expensive rig that I couldn't afford to replace every month or so (lots of airflow = dust buildup). Though my case has air filter screens, dust still makes its way inside a little bit. I always ensure the machine is off, and the PSU SWITCH is off in the back before cleaning it. I do have an anti-static wrist strap, but don't use it when vacuuming.

I personally don't see too much danger, as I've never gotten a static "shock" from the vacuum no matter where/how I'm using it (it's one of the newer Dyson ball vacuums, if that matters... kinda expensive, but my wife LOVES it, so totally worth it ), so I'm inclined to think it doesn't attract static in general.

If your vacuum is giving you static "shocks" AT ALL, it's likely not a good idea to use it on electronics... if not, I'd say you're safe.

 

Alright, thanks.

 

If you want to use a home vacuum, a set of mini-tools (with an adapter that hooks up to a standard home vacuum hose) is available at Home Depot or Lowe's for about $12 (same area of the store as Shop Vacs).

Using these with a powerful Electrolux canister vac, I've found they're decent for cleaning most parts of the inside of a desktop PC case (rear fans, metal inside case, etc). Added bonus: the dust goes in the vac bag; not all over the room (big sneeze ).

Compressed/canned air is still a necessity for tighter areas (especially the heat sink under the CPU fan).

Hope this helps.