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Computer service

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  • Computers
  • Components
Last response: in Components
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September 11, 2010 8:39:55 PM

is it best to leave computer plugged in when servicing components for grounding purposes

More about : computer service

September 11, 2010 9:04:22 PM

^ If the PC is on a non-conductive surface, and the psu isn't plugged in, is there any point to touching the psu?
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September 13, 2010 7:00:23 PM

Yes, but when you discharge through people, its because they are grounded. In this case (no pun intended lol), nothing in the PC is grounded and I don't see where the discharge can go.

I think this is where the idea that the psu should be left plugged in comes from, because it is then grounded. Of course that's not the best idea, solving one problem and maybe creating others.

But honestly, in lieu of a wrist-grounding strap, during assembly I do plug the psu in (switch off) and lay it on the case, but do not connect any power cables while plugged in. Discharging by touching the psu (or case) before handling cpu, memory, cards, etc has worked fine for me. Along with not moving my feet lol.

Sometimes I think a wrist strap would be easier - but it needs to be grounded, too.
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September 13, 2010 8:02:36 PM

The best, cheapest and safest way of doing this is to unplug your whole computer and then touching the case with one hand and then touching a radiator with the other. This is because all radiators are earthed so the charge from you and the charge from the pc will then be earthed out so it is then safe to work on it.
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September 13, 2010 8:12:37 PM

Yup, that will work.

[As will touching a cold-water pipe (if you have copper or black-pipe plumbing), or stripping some bell wire, wrapping it around your wrist, and attaching the other end to the screw holding your electrical outlet cover in place (if you have a metal outlet box and it's grounded properly).]

But I haven't had a radiator in my house since 1962 - gawd I miss hot-water heating lol.
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September 5, 2011 3:00:51 PM

This topic has been closed by Mousemonkey
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