Tips For Storing Electronic Devices

October 19,2021

The internal components of electronic devices and gadgets degrade over time. In addition, some external pollutants and other elements can accelerate the shortening of shelf life.
Humidity, dust, and high temperatures are common factors affecting electronics.

Humidity
Excessive humidity can lead to condensation, which forms a thin film on the surface of the device, which can lead to a short circuit when the device is used. High humidity may also lead to corrosion, such as rust, making internal electronic components lose their electrical conductivity or resistance, leading to failure. In addition, damp conditions can cause mold.
Dust
Dust particles may contain moisture, organic matter, minerals, or other contaminants that can affect internal components and shorten electronic devices' life. The dust buildup can cause several problems, such as the problem of the conductivity between internal components, arcing, and carbon tracking in high-voltage electronics. And it also results in the component's heat increasing more quickly, making contact with relays, switches, and connectors less sensitive, and damaging the cooling systems of large electronic devices.
High Temperature
The internal hardware of electronic products such as circuit boards, microchips, batteries, and capacitors can rapidly shorten their useful life if continuously exposed to high temperatures.
Electronics require special care to survive storage of any length. The key to keeping electronic products functional and in good condition is to prevent degradation and physical damage to internal components. Here are some practical ways to store electronics.
1. Inventory and organization
Classify electronic devices before storing them. It can be classified under the following categories: size, length of storage, type,and setup quality. It makes electronics easier to pack and store. Once you've thoroughly cataloged your devices, you'll also need to make an inventory to make it easier to keep track of stored items later.

2. Remove Alkaline batteries
Alkaline batteries are bad for storage if some of your old electronics use alkaline batteries. When they discharge entirely, or the outer metal tanks corrode and rust, they can produce a corrosive substance, potassium hydroxide. A leak of potassium hydroxide can seriously damage surrounding circuits, engulf wires, and damage circuit boards. Therefore, it is more reliable to replace them with lithium-ion batteries that do not leak, are more durable, and can be stored more safely for a long time. However, before storing lithium batteries, be careful to keep them 50 to 70 percent capacity. And keep the storage area dry and cool.

3. Clean up before storage
Dust and other contaminants are dangerous to electronics in storage. Therefore, dirt, dust, cobwebs, and other potential contaminants need to be cleaned from the surfaces of electronics as well as from vents and small passageways. In addition, compressed air can be used to remove contaminants from internal hardware.

4. Keep your data secure
Some smart electronic devices, such as computers, smartphones, digital cameras, and portable storage devices may store essential data. Check and back up your data before storing it. In case the storage drive fails or stops working during long-term storage.

5. Remove all plug accessories and components 
Ensure that all parts are separated from each other to avoid sticking to the main engine or being damaged when connected with the equipment. And removing these plugged Accessories and parts increases the breathing space of the main unit within the container.

6. Bubble wrap
In addition, cushioned foam or bubble wrap can add an extra layer of protection to your electronics. In addition to providing additional cushioning, anti-static bubble wrap can help prevent static shock and ensure fragile electronic components are well protected.

7. Sealing gaps and vents
Sealing gaps and vents with cloth tape, archival tape, and tape that leaves no mark when removed will prevent dust and pests from entering your internal electronic components and causing damage.

8. Be sure to cover the monitor and screen
Monitors and screens can be protected with cotton, canvas, cardboard, or screens made of polyethylene terephthalate (PET), thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), or laminated toughened glass.  Avoid the monitor and screen by impact damage when cracking and broken or friction caused by scratches. In addition, this prevents damage caused by moisture and condensation.

9. Use original packaging
Store TVs, speakers, laptops, or other medium and large-sized electronic devices in their original packaging. Because the original boxes are specially designed, built-in internal supports to protect equipment from impact damage, transportation, and long-term warehouse storage. However, if you lose the original packaging, make sure to choose a high-quality box.

10. Store electronics in a cool and dry place
When you're looking for a place to store electronics, you should consider an area with a balance of temperature and humidity and choose a cool, dry place. Because electronic products are sensitive items, they should be stored with special care. If the humidity is too high, install a dehumidifier to control the moisture.