■Touch a bare metal surface on the back of the computer.

■Unplug the power cord and modem cable.

Before working with computer components, follow these guidelines:

■Avoid static-causing surfaces such as carpeted floors, plastic, and packing foam.

■Remove components from their antistatic bags only when you are ready to use them. Do not lay components on the outside of antistatic bags because only the inside of the bags provide electrostatic protection.

■Always hold expansion cards by their edges or their metal mounting brackets. Avoid touching the edge connectors and components on the cards. Never slide expansion cards or components over any surface.

16Working with the Gateway Mid-Tower case