is a carpet floor with a wooden desk bad for gpu installation?

[Keyes]

When I'm upgrading my gpu, is it okay to install it with the pc on top of a wooden desk but with a carpet floor? Is there something I can place (cardboard?) Underneath me as I install it?

Thanks.

 

[nvalhalla]

Here is how I would do it.

Plug the PSU in but leave the power switch off on the PSU. This keeps the chassis grounded. Then, before you touch any hardware, touch the PC case. This will discharge any static. Try and stay in contact with the case as much as possible to ensure you stay discharged.

Realistically, you aren't going to damage the GPU with static electricity. It would take a pretty serious zap to a few specific areas to do any permanent damage. If you want to be safe, just ground yourself to the PC case.

 

[Marcus52]

ETA - what nvalhalla said.

Ground yourself by touching a bare metal object before you touch anything electronic and you shouldn't have trouble. Most computer cases have metal frames that you can touch. (If you want to be extra safe use a grounding strap so you stay connected to an object that bleeds off any static charge. You can buy one online where you buy your video card or pick one up at your local Radio Shack if such is available to you. Or just make one if you have any wire on hand.)

Example of a grounding strap:

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16899816008&cm_re=grounding_wrist_strap-_-99-816-008-_-Product

 

[Keyes]

Thanks, my case is fully metal, mso no problems there. But in general, is it okay to have a carpeted floor and have the hardware on the desk?