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Moving Your Computer


Moving your Mac or PC is not as difficult as many people may think. Although there is no guarantee that your computer will not have problems after it is moved, following a few simple precautions can help reduce the risk of downtime. The following is a list of things that you should do prior to moving your computer.
  1. Backing up your data is the single most important part of any move. Any files that you absolutely cannot be without should be backed up.
  2. The next step of moving will involve unhooking cables on the back of the computer.
    1. Make sure that all equipment is turned off prior to starting. Although there is little chance of getting "shocked," you can damage the equipment if you unplug them without turning them off first.
    2. At this point it would be helpful to make a diagram of the back of your computer showing all cable locations. This does not have to be an elaborate diagram, just something that will help you to re-attach the cables once you have relocated. If you prefer, use tape and mark each cable with a number or color. Then mark the corresponding port on the PC or diagram.
    3. Start by unplugging the power cables from all of the equipment (ie: computer, monitor, printer, and any other equipment attached to your computer). Tie all of the cables together so that they can be easily located once you are moved. If necessary label each cable as to which piece of equipment it fits.
    4. Unplug the monitor from the back of the computer by unscrewing it. Make a note of which port the monitor was removed.
    5. Unplug the keyboard and the mouse from the back of the system. The newer systems will have a diagram of a keyboard and a mouse over the top of each connector. If they do not, make sure to mark their locations.
    6. Remove the network cable from the wall and the machine. Once you are moved into your office, you will probably need a new cable depending on the location of your machine and the proximity of the network jack; this can be acquired by contacting the Help Desk.
    7. Unplug the printer cable if you have a printer directly attached to your PC. Note the location of where the cable is connected to the back of the computer.
    8. You may run into cables that will need a small screwdriver to detach them. If you do not have a small screwdriver, contact the Help Desk. Someone will be assigned to assist you.
    9. Some computers will have cables that are attached to the wall that cannot be moved. These are port selector lines that you will not need in your new location. These can be left in your office.
    10. You will have other equipment attached to your machine such as scanners, modems, speakers, etc. These can be removed the same way as other cables by making a note of how and where they are connected.

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    Note: This document is not meant to be a precise step-by-step list of how to disconnect and move your computer, but only a help guide. If you do have trouble preparing your computer for moving, please contact the Help Desk for assistance. Although IT will try and assist everyone as quickly as possible due to the size of the project there could be delays in receiving assistance. If you have questions, please contact the Help Desk.

This page maintained by IT-US@indstate.edu
Last Modified: 3-May-2000 (tec)
           
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