How to ground yourself?

[Leuce]

I am going to install a new graphics card and power supply. I don't want to get electrified so I want to have an anti static environment. I don't have a esd strap so I will use a wood table, and an anti static mat (but how will I use it? Stand on it while I'm installing or do I lay the computer on the mat)
And I was told to touch the exposed metal. How would I do so? Rub on it, or hold it for the whole installation?

 

[mgolus]

You can't electrocute yourself unless your computer is still plugged in.

As for your environment, if you are standing on the mat with the computer on your wood table, you should be fine. For extra protection, if you have a piece of bare/exposed metal near by (not your computer case) you can touch it on a regular basis to dissipate any static electricity that may have built up.

 

[kawininjazx]

Crash your mother's car. You will be grounded very quickly.

 

[hans_pcguy]

When I first started doing PC repair in 1994 I used to use a ground strap. Threw it away about 6 months later. I have built/repaired thousands of PC's since then and never used one. I have never HEARD of esd actually harming a computer after the manufacturing process.

 

[Gamma2Tech]

Try and stay off of carpet. Otherwise, you're already grounded when you're touching your tower. No need for super precautions. Just touch the case every couple minutes to expel any static.