How to Avoid Destroying a Computer with Electrostatic Discharge

Static electricity is a very dangerous thing when it encounters electronic equipment. It is especially dangerous when the equipment is open and being repaired or examined. The static electricity can discharge on or in the electronic circuits and blow out parts or cause them to fail. Take the precautions you need to protect your electronics from destruction.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Create a clean work environment when performing an upgrade to the computer or adding more or new components. Clutter and other items normally found on a desk increase the risk of you touching them and raising your own electrical potential above ground by a few hundred volts. Those few hundred volts will be enough to damage electronic circuits and possibly to make your devices not work at all.

2. Install an anti-static mat under the table and ensure that it is big enough for you to stand on it as you work. You are isolated from electrical charge as long as you stay on the mat. Moving upon carpeted floors creates static electricity.

3. Obtain and wear an anti-static wristband. The wristband allows any static electricity that your body picks up to discharge immediately. The band attaches to a grounded plug

4. Touch a bare metal surface while you are inside the computer case if you don't have access to a wristband as described in Step 3. Touching a bare metal surface all the time will have the same effect as the wristband. The only drawback is that to do this you will only have one hand to work with.

5. Work on your computer and electronics only in a warm environment and one that has a normal relative humidity. Dry weather and cold temperatures will increase the likelihood of developing static electricity.