CHAPTER 5: Upgrading Your Computer
50
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Preventing static electricity
discharge
Warning
To avoid exposure to
dangerous electrical
voltages and moving
parts, turn off your
computer and unplug
the power cord and
modem and network
cables before opening
the case.
The components inside your computer are
extremely sensitive to static electricity, also
known as
electrostatic discharge
(ESD).
Before opening the computer case, follow these
guidelines:
Warning
To prevent risk of
electric shock, do not
insert any object into
the vent holes of the
power supply.
■
Wear a grounding wrist strap (available at
most electronics stores) and attach it to a
bare metal part of your computer.
■
Turn off your computer.
■
Touch a bare metal surface on the back of
the computer.
■
Unplug the power cord and the modem
and network cables.
Caution
ESD can permanently
damage electrostatic
discharge-sensitive
components in your
computer. Prevent ESD
damage by following
ESD guidelines every
time you open the
computer case.
Before working with computer components,
follow these guidelines:
■
Avoid static-causing surfaces such as
carpeted floors, plastic, and packing foam.
■
Remove components from their antistatic
bags only when you are ready to use them.
Do not lay components on the outside of
antistatic bags because only the inside of
the bags provide electrostatic protection.
■
Always hold expansion cards by their
edges or their metal mounting brackets.
Avoid touching the edge connectors and
components on the cards. Never slide
expansion cards or components over any
surface.
8511781.book Page 50 Tuesday, October 10, 2006 4:41 PM
