Cables and connectors
CAUTION: When servicing the computer, be sure that cables are placed in their proper locations during the reassembly process. Improper cable placement can damage the computer.
Cables must be handled with extreme care to avoid damage. Apply only the tension required to unseat or seat the cables during removal and insertion. Handle cables by the connector whenever possible. In all cases, avoid bending, twisting, or tearing cables. Be sure that cables are routed in such a way that they cannot be caught or snagged by parts being removed or replaced. Handle flex cables with extreme care; these cables tear easily.
Drive handling
CAUTION: Drives are fragile components that must be handled with care. To prevent damage to the computer, damage to a drive, or loss of information, observe these precautions:
Before removing or inserting a hard drive, shut down the computer. If you are unsure whether the computer is off or in Hibernation, turn the computer on, and then shut it down through the operating system.
Before handling a drive, be sure that you are discharged of static electricity. While handling a drive, avoid touching the connector.
Before removing a diskette drive or optical drive, be sure that a diskette or disc is not in the drive and be sure that the optical drive tray is closed.
Handle drives on surfaces covered with at least one inch of
Avoid dropping drives from any height onto any surface.
After removing a hard drive, an optical drive, or a diskette drive, place it in a
Avoid exposing a hard drive to products that have magnetic fields, such as monitors or speakers.
Avoid exposing a drive to temperature extremes or liquids.
If a drive must be mailed, place the drive in a bubble pack mailer or other suitable form of protective packaging and label the package “FRAGILE.”
34 Chapter 4 Removal and replacement procedures