Tuesday 13 August 2013

Computers and electronics self-storage tips

Self Storage
If you are reading this, you have probably decided that you are going to store your device in a self-storage unit, as opposed to donating or recycling. While preparing your device for self-storage is a relatively easy endeavor, there are some important things you might overlook during the process which could mean life or death for your electronics.
Improper storage and handling of electronics is a very prevalent issue when it comes to self-storage, which could damage your device and its parts, while also compromising your health. Don't make the mistake of sacrificing safety for speed: in the long run, your device will have better chances of staying in its original packing condition.

Temperature and Humidity
Whether you are storing instruments, antiques, or electronics, temperature is arguably one of the largest factors when it comes to the preservation of almost anything. If you happen to live somewhere, which suffers from unpredictable, wild weather, it is a good idea to opt for a self-storage unit provider which offers climate control. Climate Control is a handy feature that some self-storage units sport, which allows you to set a constant temperature for the room, regardless of the outside conditions. Climate Controlled units are not only useful, but still inexpensive, making it a good opt-in for many.

However, temperature is not the only factor that has a drastic impact on the electronics in your storage unit. Humidity is a notorious killer of most electronic devices, because the moisture promotes the development of rust and mold, as well as other "computer killers". Even besides that, for the same reason you don't store a computer outdoors, long exposure to moistness (especially in a compact environment) simply deteriorates the condition of every piece of the device.

While climate control is helpful for a temperature fix, you are going to need to use a dehumidifier to solve any problems with moisture you may encounter. Luckily, there are storage units which offer dehumidifiers as a perk to the storage unit. Dehumidifiers can also be purchased online, at websites like Amazon.

Packing

Because prolonged exposure to moisture poses a risk to electronic devices, you need to take several precautions in order to make sure your device will stay more or less safe, regardless of the environment. Any device you store should be cleaned thoroughly before any other preparations are done, by using compressed air and a paper towel to clean the keyboard, as well as the insides of the device (when touching the inside of a computer, be sure to use non-conductive gloves. Static electricity can be harmful to your computer, and to you.) As for actual storage, you need to place your device in a bag that is airtight, but that can be opened and closed (not ripped apart after being sealed).

The device needs to be wrapped in multiple layers of assorted sheets (made of cloth), in order to keep it snug in whatever container you place it in. For extra protection from moisture, it may be a good idea to put in a desiccant (any substance that absorbs moisture around it, for the purpose of making the environment around it dry.) These are commonly found in the form of silica gel packets, which you might have seen in food containers, with a bold "Do Not Eat" stamped on the packet.

Now, there is a reason why cloth is specified, instead of plastic. Cloth works because it doesn't allow moisture to be retained inside with the device, while plastic does. Cloth also is more effective at preventing dust buildup inside and around the computer.

Always remember to remove the hard-drive and batteries (there is a smaller battery in the computer that is used to power the real time clock and CMOS chips), because they are the parts of the computer which fail the most. A battery acid leak will not only ruin any surrounding electronics, but it could also produce fumes which are harmful when ingested.

Any external, removable media like CDs or flash drives must be removed before storage. Every sensitive part of the device which you'll still need (Hard Drive, Charger, Battery), should be stored in its own airtight container, apart from any other electronics.

Next Door Self-storage is easy and convenient, and packing your electronics for storage can be that way too. It's very easy to forget how delicate electronics really are, but remember, take your time and ensure that you are doing a good job packing and securing. Storing a device only to have it broken a couple years down the line is not only completely avoidable, but it defeats the purpose of a secure storage location in the first place.
Willie Pena is a freelance writer, video producer, visual artist, and music producer. He prefers the Oxford comma. In addition to writing for firms such as IBM, Colgate, Transunion, Webroot and a multitude of private clients and websites, he also shoots, directs, and edits the hit celebrity web series “Teens Wanna Know”. Catch his rare blog posts on williepena.com, and connect with him on Google+, LinkedIn.

4 Responses to “Computers and electronics self-storage tips”

James Harrison said...
20 August 2013 at 02:32

Nice tips!! Self storage is the best way to preserve your equipment from any outer harm. As well as you may ensure about the security of you devices.


Fred Casey said...
20 August 2013 at 23:55

Thank you for giving the tips. Self storage have really proven the boon to everyone as all types of durable and non-durable equipments can be stored in a specific temperature.
Ashford self storage space


Eugene Cave said...
11 September 2013 at 10:00

Thanks, I'll keep this in mind for my storage in Edmonton. I'd hate to come back to a broken computer.


Aman Verma said...
5 October 2013 at 10:56

Thanks James, Keep Visiting..


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