Mazatlán’s “perfect” climate can wreak havoc on your computer

Q: Some of my CDs and DVDs have black and green blotches on them and are ruined. What happened? Is there a way to save them?

While there is a CD-eating fungus that’s been documented in tropical climates, the more likely cause is the salt air corroding the reflective metal layer of the CD or DVD. There’s nothing you can do to rescue already-damaged disks, but there are ways to prevent damage to future disks.

The best thing you can do for your discs is always keep them covered; don’t leave them sitting out on your desk or bookshelf. Any kind of case works, even the cheap paper sleeves. The important thing is to protect them from dust because dust significantly speeds the corrosion process.

It’s also worth noting that commercially pressed CDs and DVDs, like the music and movies you buy at the store, fare better. This is because the reflective layer is sandwiched between two polycarbonate layers, although the edges are still exposed. The reflective layer of recordable media purchased for home use is exposed and much more vulnerable. If you have the choice, gold discs last better than silver ones.

Q: Since coming to Mazatlán, my computer seems like it’s always breaking down. What's up with that?

Many of us move here for the kinder, gentler weather, but for your computer, this qualifies as an extreme environment, and components are just going to fail here more rapidly than in other places. The best option for your computer is to leave it running all the time. That keeps the components warm and prevents moisture from condensing inside the case, which is the real culprit. But if that’s not an option, cover it when you’re not using it. While having a “computer cozy” might not be all that fashionable, it will extend its life. Any heavy cotton fabric will do. Just make sure to remove the cover before you turn it on. This is a good idea for all of your electronics, like monitor, TV and stereo.

Charles Swarts has worked in the IT industry for 15 years and holds numerous Microsoft and other industry certifications. He offers on-site computer repair in Mazatlán. Contact Charles at 176-3564, This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or www.mazpc.com.