PC hardware maintenance: What is the safest product to clean Mylar-protected LCD screens? When removing finger smudges, dust, or light grime from a liquid crystal display (LCD) that has a Mylar or other plastic anti-glare/anti-scratch overlay, which cleaning choice should a technician prefer to avoid damage, haze, or streaking?

Introduction / Context:
LCD panels often include a Mylar or similar polymer overlay to diffuse reflections and protect the surface. Choosing the correct cleaner matters because harsh chemicals and abrasives can cloud, craze, or strip this coating. This question tests practical hardware maintenance and ESD-safe cleaning practice.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• The LCD has a plastic (Mylar) protective layer, not bare glass.
• Goal: safely remove light dirt, skin oils, and dust without scratching or chemically attacking the coating.
• Technician has access to common field items: ammonia glass sprays, general cleansers, alcohol wipes, and anti-static wipes.

Concept / Approach:

Plastics are sensitive to solvents (ammonia, alcohols, ketones) and abrasives. Best practice is to use anti-static, lint-free wipes made for electronics, often pre-moistened with neutral, plastic-safe solutions. They clean while minimizing static charge buildup that could attract dust or risk ESD near open equipment.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:

Manufacturer care guides routinely warn against ammonia and alcohol on coated plastics. Testing on a small, inconspicuous area confirms compatibility. Anti-static wipes are marketed for monitors and optical plastics, validating their suitability.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• Ammonia window cleaner: can cloud or yellow the polymer and leave streaks.
• Non-abrasive cleanser: vague; many household products still contain surfactants/solvents not rated for plastics.
• Alcohol-impregnated wipes: can dry and craze some plastic coatings over time.
• None of the above: incorrect because anti-static wipes are appropriate.

Common Pitfalls:

Using paper towels (abrasive), excessive liquid, or spraying the screen directly. Always power down, disconnect AC, and avoid pressing hard on the panel.

Final Answer:

Anti-static wipes