Content

• To step
• Part 1 of 2: Preparing your workplace
• Part 2 of 2: Grounding yourself
• Tips
• Warnings

Electrostatic Discharge (ESD) is the complicated term for static electricity. It doesn't really hurt much when you get a shock from the doorknob, but the same shock can destroy your computer. Every time you open your PC's case to work on the inside, you need to be aware of ESO and how to prevent it - with a bracelet, discharger or even by changing clothes.

To step

Part 1 of 2: Preparing your workplace

1. Work on a hard surface. Work to minimize static build-up on a clean, hard surface on computers. A table, desktop, or wooden shelf are all fine.
2. Make sure you stand with your bare feet on a hard floor. Carpet and socks can recharge you. Make sure you stand barefoot on wood, flagstones or another hard floor.
   • You can completely rule out the connection to the floor by wearing rubber slippers, but this goes a bit for chores around the house.
3. Remove any clothing that generates static electricity. Wool and some synthetic fabrics, in particular, attract static electricity. Cotton clothing is safe.
4. Humidify the air when the weather is dry. Static electricity is a much greater risk in dry environments. If you have one, use a humidifier, but you don't have to go to the store for it. The other precautions are enough for you.
   • You can also moisten the air by hanging a wet cloth in front of a radiator or fan.
5. Keep all parts in anti-static bags. All new computer parts should be kept in anti-static bags until you are ready to install them.

Part 2 of 2: Grounding yourself

1. Occasionally touch a grounded object. This should be bare metal with a clearly grounded path, such as a metal radiator. This is the fast option and many people who build computers stick to it.That said, there is still a small but certain risk that this is not enough after all. Only limit yourself to this if you do a small job and the parts are not too expensive.
2. Ground yourself with an anti-static bracelet. These are cheap things you can buy in an electronics store. Wear the bracelet on your skin and attach the loose end to a grounded metal object. Often times, however, the bracelet is attached to the bare metal of the computer case. This will avoid problems if all your parts are electrically connected, but all manufacturers recommend that you ground your bracelet completely.
   • Do not use a wireless bracelet; they don't work.
   • If you have a bracelet with a loop instead of a clip, you can slide it over the central screw in an electrical outlet. You should be grounded with this (at least in the US), but you better check it with a multimeter.
   • Make sure the bracelet is attached to a conductive surface. Paint slows down conduction or even stops it completely.
3. Ground the computer case. This is not necessary if you are already grounded yourself, but it is a good idea if you rely on touching the computer case now and then. The trick is to ground the computer without turning it on. Choose from the options below to be 100% sure you don't accidentally put the power on.
   • Plug a surge protector into an electrical outlet and put it on from. Plug a power supply into the surge protector with a three-prong grounded plug.
   • Use a ground wire to attach a bare metal part of the cabinet to a grounded object.
   • If there is an on / off switch on the power supply, turn it on from and plug in the power supply.
   • Fuses in plugs are not used in the Netherlands. If you're using a foreign plug, you can also remove the fuse before plugging in the power supply.
4. Work on an ESO mat. This goes too far for most chores around the house; unless you don't want to worry at all. Place the computer parts on the ESO mat and touch it while you work. Some models have a clamp to which you can attach your bracelet.
   • For computer repairs, use a vinyl ESO mat; rubber is more expensive and is not necessary for these jobs. The mat should be "conductive" and not "insulating".

Tips

• If you're working with a CPU, hold it by the edges. If possible, do not touch pins, circuits, or the metal on top.

Warnings

• Even if you do not notice an electrostatic discharge during your work, small amounts of current can still damage your parts, reducing their lifespan. In the worst case, a strong shock can destroy your motherboard.