Keyboard Cleaning And Maintenance 671 FIGURE 20-7 A Curtis Anti-Static Keyboard Mat. Curtis, a division of Rolodex, Secaucus, NJ 07094 out any accumulations of dust. Because compressed air will tend to blow dust in all directions, you might consider blowing down the keyboard outside, or in an area away from your workbench. Instead of compressed air, you might use a “static-safe” vacuum cleaner to remove dust and debris. Dealing With Large Objects Staples and paperclips pose a clear and present danger to keyboards. Although the odds of a staple or paperclip finding its way into a keyboard are generally slight, foreign objects can jam the key or short it out. If the keyboard is moved, the object can windup in the keyboard’s circuitry where serious damage can occur. When a foreign object falls into the keyboard, do not move the keyboard. Power down the PC, then locate the object and find the nearest key. Use a paperclip bent in a U shape with the ends of the U angled inward to remove the nearest key cap. Use a pair of non-conductive tweezers or needle nose pliers to remove the object. Replace the key cap.
