TuneTracker™ QuickTip

Giving dust the brush-off at your radio station

It's widely accepted that dust is the arch enemy of electronic equipment. It creeps into computers and coats surfaces, causing overheating. It settles on control consoles, fouling switches, knobs, and sliders.

In a previous QuickTip, we talked about a powerful little "reverse vacuum" we've discovered that does a great job blasting away dust in concealed areas. This time, we'll talk about three handy tools to deal with dust on flat surfaces containing raised elements, such as control consoles, circuit boards, etc.

• Paint brush: A three-inch, soft paint brush does an excellent job of getting between "pots" and other raised surfaces on a control board/mixer board

• Bristled duster: We purchased an unusual duster at a dollar store once that is awesome for cleaning off components such as circuit boards. Unlike a feather duster, that would snag on the sharper parts that stick up, this duster has stiff bristles that get into every nook and cranny and do a great job. We're not endorsing a brand, but here's a link to show you what this type of duster looks like. It looks a little like a toilet brush, doesn't it? And actually a new (clean) toilet brush would probably work well too.

• Swiffer duster: Here we are using a brand name, because we're recommending a specific product. We generally picture these weird-looking dusters on a long handle for doing floors, but they can be attached to a shorter plastic wand and used to dust the tops and sides of speakers, control consoles, and other broader surfaces. They're flat and rigid so they go into those "between" areas that the other tools we mentioned can't. We also find they're good for clearing the vent holes on computer cases.

Keeping your studio equipment and surfaces clear of dust will help make your equipment last longer, your studio look better, and your staff feel healthier; especially those with allergies.

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