Items for Computer Repair Tool Kits

For those who frequently repair or upgrade computers, a computer repair tool kit can make these tasks easier if it contains the right tools and supplies. Here are some suggested items to put in computer repair tool kits, regardless of whether you already have a kit of this type or are putting one together for the first time...

BOOT DISK: A 3.5" DOS computer boot disk with system utility programs on it makes it possible to boot up and perform some functions on almost any IBM-compatible computer with a floppy drive, even if it is unable to boot to its hard drive or CD-ROM, so these are useful items to add to computer repair tool kits.

BATTERY TESTER: Most computers have a CMOS battery for keeping the time and configuration settings when the computer is off. Many of them use coin (or "button") style batteries which can be tested in a battery tester of the appropriate type. When a CMOS battery is replaced, the tester can be used to determine if the old battery actually failed, and to confirm the new battery hasn't expired.

VACUUM CLEANER: Some computer systems accumulate thick layers of dust inside them over years of use. A compact vacuum cleaner easily be transported and used to remove this, as well as vacuuming keyboards when necessary. One vacuum cleaner series which is designed for cleaning computers is the Data-Vac, which comes with a set of small attachments.

DRIVE CLEANERS: 3.5" floppy and CD-ROM cleaning kits are available, sometimes as part of larger computer cleaning kits made up of several items. This tool can eliminate the need to replace a floppy or CD-ROM drive which isn't functioning properly. Such kits can usually be found on eBay.com and various other websites; Radio Shack offers CD-ROM cleaners but none for floppy drives.

REFERENCE BOOK: A fairly recent book on computer repair in general (preferably a small, lightweight book) can be helpful, especially if an internet connection is not available while working on a computer. Some books of this type which can be easily added to repair tool kits include "PC Technician's Troubleshooting Pocket Reference", and "A+ PC Technician's Pocket Reference."

SMALL FLASHLIGHT: A thin, light flashlight or "penlight" is a useful tool for seeing parts of the inside of some computers, especially if lighting in the room is poor. If possible, purchase a flashlight of this type that uses easy-to-replace batteries like "AA" or "AAA", which are also available as rechargeable versions.

REPLACEMENTS: It is not realistic to keep replacements of every computer part on hand, as most of these items vary from one computer model to the next. However, there are some replacement items which fit the majority of non-laptop computers. These include CR2032 CMOS batteries, three-prong power cords, 3.5" floppy drives, expansion slot covers, PS/2 computer mice, 5.25"-to-3.5" drive bay adapters (useful for putting a standard floppy or Zip drive in systems which lack standard 3.5" drive bays), and standard CD-ROM drives.

Adding these items to computer repair tool kits will make them more useful and versatile, saving time which would be spent obtaining the items separately or attempting to do without them.