[SOLVED] Discharge Static Electricity

[Ben Ellis (AreX)]

How do i discharge static electricity prior to a pc upgrade?

 

[COLGeek]

Just ground yourself before touching anything sensitive, like to the metal on your case.

 

[dorsai]

If possible it's always advisable to use a static wrist strap.

Also keeping the power cord attached to the PC with the psu switch in the OFF position will maintain a ground connection allowing you to discharge any static in your body before touching any components by simply touching the metal parts of your pc case frame.

 

[SamirD]

Be careful about modern power supplies that don't have a power switch--they will keep the system powered so you can damage it if you add/remove components. It is always best to remove the power cord and just make sure you are touching metal on a regular basis.

 

[TheDevil21]

Disconnect the psu , and try to start the computer . And if you want to be sure that is ok , leave it for like 5-10 minutes .

 

[grimfox]

Anti-static wrist straps are good. They will keep you at the same potential as whatever you have it clipped too.

I don't agree with leaving the power supply plugged into the wall. While that will bring you and the PC to the same potential as your house wiring ground it's not important for avoiding a static discharge. I think it's too great a risk given some of the inexperienced users that use this forum. For a more seasoned builder that has a better understanding of their system and electronics and electricity they could work with the power supply plugged in, but as a general rule given the audience I would say, "Always unplug your system before working on it"

Static discharge occurs when two objects of greatly different static potential come close enough for the electrons to jump the gap from one object to the other. Bringing both to the same level. An anti-static wrist strap insures that both objects are always at the same potential by keeping both connected via the conductor. Further by touching the edge of the case and allowing any differential in potential to equalize (happens almost instantaneously) you can prevent a dangerous buildup. Further more if you handle your components properly you can vastly reduce the risk of damage. Touch the anti-static bag first. Touch the corner of the PCB first. Touch the heat sink first. Don't touch the connectors. Don't touch the pins. Don't touch the ICs. Handle parts by the edges. When installing components rest your wrist on the edge of the case so that you bring your body and the part you are holding to the same potential as the case before moving the part down and connecting it to the system.