CHAPTER 4: Installing Components

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

Tip

Blue latches, thumbscrews, or connectors indicate tool-less components.

Green latches and connectors indicate hot-swappable components.

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)

Getting Help

If you have questions about performing any of these procedures, contact Gateway Customer Care. For more information, see “Getting Help” on page 8.

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).

Warning

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

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.

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.

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