CHAPTER 4: Installing Components

Important

You must open your server case to install components. If you are not comfortable with these procedures, get help from a more experienced computer user or computer service technician, or contact Gateway Customer Care.

Preparing to install components

Selecting a place to work

Work on your server in an area that:•Is clean (avoid dusty areas)•Is a low-static environment (avoid carpeted areas)•Has a stable surface on which to set your server•Has enough room to place all of your server parts•Is near a grounded outlet so you can test your server after installation

•Is near a telephone (in case you need help from Gateway Customer Care). The telephone must be directly connected to a telephone jack and cannot be connected to your server.

Gathering the tools you need

Some tools and supplies that you may need to work on your server are:•A notebook to take notes•A Phillips screwdriver•A small flat-blade screwdriver•Small containers to store various types of screws•A grounding wrist strap (available at most electronic stores)

Preventing static electricity discharge

Warning

To avoid exposure to dangerous electrical voltages and moving parts, turn off your server and unplug the power cords and modem cable before opening the server case.

The components inside your server are extremely sensitive to static electricity, also known as electrostatic discharge (ESD).

Caution

ESD can permanently damage electrostatic discharge-sensitive components in the server. Prevent ESD damage by following ESD guidelines every time you open the server case.

Before working with server components, follow these guidelines:•Turn off the server, then unplug the power cords and all other cables.•Press the power button to drain any residual power from the server.

Warning

To prevent risk of electric shock, do not insert any object into the vent holes of the power supply module.

•Wear a grounding wrist strap (available at most electronics stores) and attach it to a bare metal part of the server. You can also touch a bare metal surface on the back of the server with your finger.

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

•Avoid working on the server when your work area is extremely humid.

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