keeping computer cool IT penguin

keeping computer cool IT penguinIt’s so hot, the other day I saw a chicken lay an omelet! Joking aside, with the mercury rising, we are all looking for ways to keep cool. But what about our equipment? Did you know that your servers, laptops, desktops, and even your mobile devices can malfunction or even become damaged in an environment that is too hot?

Follow the advice in this week's Tech Tip Tuesday article to keep your business running and avoid downtime caused by overheating equipment.

Your electronics produce heat on their own, so remember the environment needs to be a couple of degrees cooler than the maximum operating temperature of your device.

Servers:
Most recommendations say to keep them fairly cool – 68-72 degrees F. If they get too warm, many experts believe that you are reducing their life span. Read the documentation of all your server equipment or ask your friendly CTTS Technician to provide advice.

If you keep your servers in a closet with a closed door, the heat emitted will quickly elevate the temperature to levels that will damage the hardware. Consider opening the door or putting in a good exhaust fan to pull the hot air out.

Desktops: 
Desktops can be a bit warmer, and for at least some models of Dell OptiPlex Business class desktops: the operating temperature can range between 50-95 degrees. Remember to clean the vents as a build-up of dust can also cause the heat to rise!

Laptops:
Laptops have a bit more of a window to perform, but experts still want it to be at a temperature less than 95 degrees.

To keep things cool, it’s best to keep your laptop on a solid surface (like a desk, or a table) or a laptop stand and not on a pillow. This ensures the vents aren’t blocked so hot air does not build up. And keep the cat off the keyboard! They are attracted to the warmth, but their fur can build up inside the system.

Mobile Devices:
Your cell phone or tablet is another device that is even more portable and can overheat as well. The maximum temp tends to be about 95 degrees before your smartphone or tablet will stop working.

For all the Texans like us out there, you'll need to take extra care when you’re outdoors this summer! When the temperature is in the upper 90s, consider only using your phone in emergencies, don’t leave it in direct sunlight for long periods of time, don’t leave it in your pocket, don’t leave it in your car, and maybe even turn it off when temperatures are extreme.

If your phone is overheating, you might see one of these screens, depending on your operating system and manufacturer.

computer overheatinglaptop overheatingiPhone smartphone overheating

WARNING* if your device does overheat – NEVER PUT YOUR DEVICE IN THE FREEZER! – the condensation created from the massive temperature shift will also cause damage!

I hope you are able to heed this advice and take some extra precautions against heat damage for your devices. Questions? Reach out to CTTS today, our free IT Consultation will assess the condition of your business technology, making sure your IT is not stopping you from being your most awesome productive self. Let's talk today: (512) 388-5559 

2841270107

 

By Josh Wilmoth
CEO, Central Texas Technology Solutions