Computers get dirty, especially their human interface surfaces —
keyboards and pointing devices. In some instances, dirt can even
affect input device performance as well as appearance. Some time
ago the faithful SlimType gave me a scare when the F and W keys
stopped responding properly. A keystroke would register only
when the key was pressed more firmly than usual, and the subtle
over-center click of the SlimType’s scissors keyswitch mechanism
was missing — the malfunctioning keys feeling “numb” and
offering higher than normal resistance. The medicine that time
proved to be blowing out the accumulated crud beneath the key
console with compressed air. I successfully used an automotive
shop compressor with a blow gun. For more cautious folks, or
those without convenient access to a compressor, one of those
little aerosol cans of compressed air used for cleaning
photography equipment could do the trick. But sometimes a bit of
compressed air isn’t enough. So, here is our guide to cleaning
everything from mice to