I am confused. I want to update my RAM, so I have looked at a few websites which tell me how to do it. Most tell me to touch the case the discharge my static, and some suggest an anti-static wristband- which do you suggest? They are also divided about whether the power(obviously off) should be plugged in or not, I don't know what to do.
2007-10-01 08:09:01 · 8 answers · asked by True_Brit 3 in Computers & Internet ➔ Hardware ➔ Add-ons
Reading the answers to some of the other questions it seems that the power cable(when turned off) acts as an earth in the PC which static can be discharged through. Opinions?
2007-10-01 08:19:08 · update #1
When you add or replace RAM make sure the system is off and unplugged. About static electricity, just touch the unpainted metal chassis of your computer if you dont want to buy a wristband. I personally just touch the metal case to discharge. Make sure when you do any work in your computer, make sure you do it on top of a table and not on the carpet. Static electricity from the carpet can zapp things and its not nice. Try to avoid working directly on the floor also because of ground. Work in a stable surface (wood preferably) or a countertop. Put a big towel between the table and the computer that way you dont scratch your table.
2007-10-01 08:15:00 · answer #1 · answered by Emilio 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
The better is to have a Anti-Static Wristband but with touching the metal case will discharge any static.
For installing the memory there's no matter if the computer is plugged or unplugged, the recommendation is to always unplug it because you can receive a high voltage discharge that's very unpleasent and dangerous and among that you can fry any sensitive part of the computer.
2007-10-01 08:16:07 · answer #2 · answered by Die_Niedel 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Touching the case and wearing the wrist strap are basically the same thing...you just need to be grounded so that no static electricity damages the components.
ALWAYS unplug the power and wait a few seconds before doing ANY work on a computer. Even if the computer is off, there is still power going from the power supply to the motherboard.
2007-10-01 08:12:34 · answer #3 · answered by Yoi_55 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Static is extremely dangerous,i used to have to discharge it from the gun firing circuits on the fighters before connecting the firing circuits,the rocket circuits were the same,we had a practice rocket fired across an airfield due to residual static in the pigtail connecters.But in your case i would leave it to an expert or you may end up asking a different question.
2007-10-01 08:19:41 · answer #4 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
i have always taken plug out, you do not really need a wrist band but touch the inside of the case or something grounded like bare metal radiators. BTW make sure you have the right type of RAM and make sure your motherboard could handle the amount you want to install. Try not to do it on a carpet or with socks on.
2007-10-01 08:13:19 · answer #5 · answered by h1ten 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
You can use this.
Green Grounding Adapter, 1ft
Green Grounding Adapter, 6ft
"The 3-pin grounding power cord adapter connects to ground but does not connect power. It safeguards you and your computer equipment from damaging and dangerous static discharges. The cord is ideal for computer enthusiasts and field technicians."
2007-10-01 08:28:13 · answer #6 · answered by ? 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Do both.
It can't hurt you to play it safe. Whats the big deal about unplugging it anyway AND removing your static too???
It takes only a second to remove your static and only a second to "FRY" your RAM chips if you don't.
PS: When placing the new RAM chips in the slots, be sure to NOT force them. They should easily "snap" into place, (locked).
;-)
2007-10-01 08:17:58 · answer #7 · answered by Bert H 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Bert H hit the nail on the head.....give 'em best answer !
2007-10-01 08:21:38 · answer #8 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋