30 User Guide
Handling static-sensitive devices
Static electricity is harmless to you, but it can seriously damage computer
components.
When you are replacing a part, do not open the antistatic package containing the
new part until the defective part has been removed from the computer and you are
ready to install the new part.
Take these precautions to avoid static electricity damage when handling parts and
other computer components:
• Limityourmovement.Movementcancausestaticelectricitytobuilduparound
you.
• Alwayshandlepartsandothercomputercomponentscarefully.Handle
adapters, memory modules, system boards, and microprocessors by the
edges. Never touch any exposed circuitry.
• Preventothersfromtouchingthepartsandothercomputercomponents.
• Beforeyoureplaceanewpart,touchtheantistaticpackagecontainingthe
part to a metal expansion slot cover or other unpainted metal surface on
the computer for at least two seconds. This reduces static electricity in the
package and your body.
• Whenpossible,removethenewpartfromitsantistaticpackagingandinstall
it directly into the computer without setting the part down. When this is not
possible, place the antistatic package that the part came in on a smooth, level
surface and place the part on it.
• Donotplacethepartonthecomputercoverorothermetalsurface.