Computers

Professionals must do regular computer maintenance tasks to ensure the smooth operation of their desktops and/or laptops and to keep their data protected. The better care you take of your computer, the longer it will last and you will stay more productive with less downtime due to problems.

**Clean your Desktop, Speedup your Mac!**
Here is an easy tip to speed up your Mac, and possibly reduce the frequency of the rainbow cursor: Reduce the icons on your Desktop! Why? Mac OS X treats each desktop icon as its own little window. With only a few icons the result is minimal. But teachers with a habit of using their desktop for storage may be paying a price in speed and stability. This is especially true if your desktop is loaded with picture files.

So clean up the mess and speed up your computer. To do so, make some folders and start dragging those files off your desktop in to the folders!

**Schedule regular Updates**
Automatic Updates must be turned on and scheduled weekly for evening or weekend. (Click here for step by step instructions TO BE ADDED by RJennings/Richard Davis)

**Virus protection**
Check bi-monthly (or upon new alerts) to see if Anti-Virus file definitions are less than one week old. (Click here for step sheets TO BE ADDED by RJennings/Richard Davis)

**Battery life**
To prolong battery life:
 * Calibrate new computers by running to zero percent, plugging in and charging to 100%, then unplug and use until warning to less than 10%, then charge back fully.
 * After initial calibration, **discontinue use of power cord** while battery is charged.
 * Only use powercord when charge to laptop is needed.
 * Do not leave powercord plugged into laptop for extended period of time, as this will decrease the overall life of battery.

**Adjusting Power Settings and saving power**

 * Adjusting your power options will help your laptop from heating up when not in use even if for short periods of time. You can set your hard drive and display to turn off after a set time period. Another option is to set the laptop to go into standby or hibernate mode.

Unplug Accessories
Whenever your laptop will not be in use, even for short periods of time remember to unplug any accessories. Not only do they use power but they could cause the laptop to overheat. It's especially important to unplug any accessories before packing your laptop in its carrying case. While you may believe it will make it quicker to use, it could damage your laptop, the accessory and/or your laptop bag.

**Laptop/Desktop safety and security**

 * To protect laptops from wear and tear or damage, a protective carrying case is recommended at all times during transit.
 * Keep laptop out of sight and in a secured area (locked door, cabinet, or closet) when away and/or not in use.
 * Clean laptop regularly with appropriate cloth and solution. Do not use harsh cleaning products or ammonia based. Do NOT spray screen or keyboard directly with any liquid ever! Always spray cloth first.
 * In order to keep your keyboard cleaner and prevent keys from sticking or malfunctioning, do your best to keep food and drink away from where you are working.Even if you don't spill something directly on the laptop keyboard, you will get residue on your fingers and transfer that to the keyboard.
 * Compressed air can be used on the keyboard to get rid of dirt build-up.
 * You can purchase monitor cleaning solutions in spray or pre-moistened wipes.
 * Always spray on a cloth first then wipe the screen from left to right, top to bottom.
 * Read your User's Manual to learn if the keys can be removed for cleaning.
 * Always operate your laptop on a hard surface, preferably one that allows ventilation. Soft materials can block the airflow vents and cause it to overheat.
 * Do not leave laptop in car (to prevent theft, heat or cold damage)

**Responsibility for Loss/Damage**
====Any and all equipment acquired by employees of the Cape Henlopen School District through purchases of district, state, federal or grant funding is considered district property. Professionals are responsible for the use of this equipment for instructional purpose while under contract with the Cape Henlopen School District. All technology equipment acquired is under the care, custody, and control of district employee. Damages caused outside of school property or exceeding company warranties are be subject to personal liability insurance coverage for repairs or replacement costs.==== ====Upon retirement, transfer, or leaving the CHSD position for any reason, all technology is required to be returned to the building administrator, district instructional technology specialist or district technology coordinator with notification to the business and/or personnel office.====