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How to protect my pc?

Building a PC with parts Im getting tomorrow, how to protect myself from ESD?

  • I need some easy and safe ways to protect myself and the parts from ESD when building my PC tomorrow. I've heard touching the case every so often helps, but others have said it needs to have the PSU installed inside it and plugged in. I dont have time to order an antistatic wristband/mat, but most people say I don't need them. Thanks in advance.

  • Answer:

    Electrostatic precautions are essential as not using them will shorten the life of sensitive components. Most people are wrong, if you worked in an electronic industry and did not follow the guidelines then you would likely be sacked. There are some good sites on the web giving advice, and this is one such: http://pcguide.com/site/warnESD-c.html Store the component parts in their anti-static bags until you need to assemble them. If you do not have the bands leads mats and clips required then earth yourself on something safe beforehand, and at regular intervals. Handle the boards by their edges without touching the components mounted on them or the connectors. It has been known for the salts on skin to ruin things over time as well! A reasonably humid atmosphere reduces the static risk as well, most large commercial sites containing electronic systems are kept as near as possible to 72 degrees Fahrenheit with a humidity of 70%, so you can see how importantly professionals rate this problem. You should really have the proper ESP kit to protect both you and the components, but if you do not then read the link. Sorry to go on at such length but I had these precautions drilled into me at work for so many years that I felt you should have the benefit of my training! Regards and seasons greetings, Bob.

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I always work on my computer on the kitchen counter, next to the sink. I touch the faucet (which is grounded) before I start and then from time to time afterwards. If you're standing in the same place, you won't build up any static electricity while you work. You can also touch the housing of the power supply in the computer, but that only works if the computer is plugged in.

Mr. Smartypants

if you have central heating, touch the bare metal pipes, there grounded and should discharge any static buildup on you. don't ware clothing that will generate static like nylon/plastics or man made fibers.

Insane_mad_maniak

all you need to do is rub your hand around the pc case and you should be fine try to wear rubber gloves as well.try and build it on a wooded floor and that's really it. I have built about 20 computers following instructions from my tutors in my college class

paul m

Lol honestly don't worry about it. I've been building computers for years and have never worried about electric discharge. The only time you need to worry about it is when you have the computer plugged in, and even then. The ONLY time I've ever worried about it is when I flashed my xBox 360. That is because I had it running off it's own power, and it was connected to a SATA port on my computer, which was also plugged in and running. I am willing to bet my life on the fact that you have nothing to worry about.

Ive worked with computers since 1998 and I can say ive always touched the case. Use the antistatic bags the components come in to put any components on to if you have them out of case at any point. If you can do the work in a room with no carpets that could help, but in all honesty the carpet thing is irrelevent if your regularly touching the case

I know this from a friend who tough me how to build computers. He is Verizon top tech(well in the building) Sit down open up the case rub your hands along the edges of the case. It will ground you, just DONT MOVE YOUR LEGS OR FEET OFF THE GROUND or their will be a chance that you have conducted a charge. If you do move your legs just rub your hands on the edge of the case again. It does not matter if the power supply is on. The reason this works is because metal is electrically conductive.

Grant King

Just don't wear any sweaters, wool blend fabric clothing, make sure you're doing it on a surface that isn't linoleum or carpet flooring. don't wear shoes with rubber soles on the bottom, etc. That's about it. I've installed parts with all those and never had an ESD happen.

syndreamer

I've never used a wristband. I just touch a grounded piece of metal before I touch anything else. And don't wear wool. Or scuff your feet. Or rub balloons in your hair. The usual.

ioerr

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