[guahguahmonster]

Well, this isn't a site dedicated to the topic, but I figure there are a ton of people knowledgeable with some aspect of computers here, and at least some of you have built a computer at some point.

In a few days, I will build my own computer for the very first time. I've selected my components and they've all been ordered and shipped. Now I just am reading up on what I need to know to perform the build.

One part that particularly confuses me is how to properly ground myself, as I keep hearing conflicting advice on the matter. Is touching the case sufficient, or do I touch some other grounded metal object? If I just touch the case, should I ground the case as well? Some have suggested doing that by plugging in the PSU (leaving it off, of course!), but I'm wondering whether there's any risk involved in that at all.

Some definitive consensus on this would be helpful for me to figure out how I should best protect my computer parts from any static discharge.

This post has been edited by guahguahmonster: 23 August 2010 - 07:41 PM

[no2pencil]

Two ways of doing this,

One : plug yourself into the grounding portion of an outlet. I've never done it. I can't imagine touching anything that's plugged into the wall.

Two : The computer is metal. Touch a part of it. Congratulations, you are grounded.

I did have an employee whom was keen on keeping a pant leg pulled up a tad bit, & pressing against the metal portion of the desk. I can't hold still that long, so I grab onto the case.

[Splatocaster]

Plugging yourself in to the ground on a duplex receptacle is a bad idea...it is often on the same rail as the "groundED" (which is the newest term for "neutral" because neutral isn't good enough for damn NFPA) in the main breaker panel, and sometimes sub-panels. You do not want to have hot and grounded making a connection - especially through your body or a part of your computer.

Instead, before working on any computer, UNPLUG it. Than, press the power button to drain any capacitors in the power regulator circuit. Relays will most likely prevent the power button from having any contact to the rest of the motherboard except through the PSU, but it will help to press the power button.

As long as you are in contact with the metal case of the computer, you are properly grounded and safe.

Never work on a computer while it has any chance of even coming close to maybe getting power.

This post has been edited by Splatocaster: 23 August 2010 - 08:20 PM

[drhowarddrfine]

Technically, being "grounded" means being connected to an "earth ground" making the whole circuit neutral but doing so can be complicated. The real issue with electronics is the neutral part; making sure there is no "potential difference" between the circuits you are working with. When one element that is charged, such as you after walking on a carpet, comes into contact with another object that has a different charge level, like a doorknob, the electric "potential difference" is what causes electrons to jump from one element to the other. This surge is what can cause damage to components.

So, if you are charge to 120V, theoretically you could plug your finger into a wall socket and not get shocked since you'd be at the same potential. (Do not try this at home. Technically not a correct statement.)

If you occasionally put your hand on the metal of the cabinet, and touch it again should you get up and walk around, you should be fine. No need to constantly keep your hand on it.

War story:
In the old days, CMOS integrated circuits were very sensitive. A new tech walked into our lab and started fingering a few that were sitting on the table. "Are these those new CMOS ICs?", he asked. "They were", I said.

Note: Despite the stories, they really weren't THAT sensitive.

[no2pencil]

drhowarddrfine, on 24 August 2010 - 06:01 AM, said:

War story:
In the old days, CMOS integrated circuits were very sensitive. A new tech walked into our lab and started fingering a few that were sitting on the table. "Are these those new CMOS ICs?", he asked. "They were", I said.

I hate when the new guy comes in & starts fingering everything, like he owns the damn place!

[nimajneb]

They sell grounding wrist straps that you strap to your wrist and something metal on the computer. Easiest thing to do is just touch the frame with your hand and your screwdriver.

[guahguahmonster]

Phew... all done building! The computer boots up just fine, and memtest86 thinks the memory is A-OK. I'm hoping everything else is in good working order as well (I've heard tales of the insidious type of ESD damage where problems don't pop up until months later). Since it was my first build, it was quite an ordeal, but I'm thinking it was a good experience.

[calvinthedestroyer]

It's always a good idea to check your house to see if it is grounded properly. since moving to Ohio I've seen many Death traps,, I mean houses that were wired wrong!

Build in an area without carpet in it.
When moving parts or circuit boards make sure they are in anti static bags first (Pink bags ARE NOT anti static)

and like everyone else said, touch something large and conductive first before handling your computer.

[moopet]

no2pencil, on 24 August 2010 - 08:15 PM, said:

drhowarddrfine, on 24 August 2010 - 06:01 AM, said:

War story:
In the old days, CMOS integrated circuits were very sensitive. A new tech walked into our lab and started fingering a few that were sitting on the table. "Are these those new CMOS ICs?", he asked. "They were", I said.

I hate when the new guy comes in & starts fingering everything, like he owns the damn place!

Are you a pimp?

[no2pencil]

moopet, on 31 August 2010 - 02:36 AM, said:

Are you a pimp?

Depends... Are you a cop?

[drhowarddrfine]

calvinthedestroyer, on 30 August 2010 - 10:45 PM, said:

Build in an area without carpet in it.

Unbelievably, I once worked in a lab that was all carpeted.

Quote

When moving parts or circuit boards make sure they are in anti static bags first (Pink bags ARE NOT anti static)

A misnomer. The bags only protect the contents from outside forces. If you are charged, then open the bag and touch the board, you can still zap it anyway. Bags are no protection for that.

This post has been edited by drhowarddrfine: 31 August 2010 - 03:46 AM

[dorknexus]

but the bags allow you to transport the devices without having to worry about destroying them in the process. you should always ground yourself before you remove them from the bags.