82 Re moving and Installing Partsw w w . d e l l . c o m | s u p p o r t . d e l l . c o m • Handle components and cards with care. Do not touch the components or contacts ona card. Hold a card by its edges or by its metal mounting bracket. Hold a componentsuch as a microprocessor chip by its edges, not by its pins.Protecting Against Electrostatic DischargeStatic electricity can harm delicate components inside your computer. To prevent staticdamage, discharge static electricity from your body before you touch any of your computer’selectronic components, such as the microprocessor. You can do so by touching an unpaintedmetal surface on the computer chassis.As you continue to work inside the computer, periodically touch an unpainted metal surfaceto remove any static charge your body may have accumulated.You can also take the following steps to prevent damage from electrostatic discharge (ESD):• When unpacking a static-sensitive component from its shipping carton, do notremove the component from the antistatic packing material until you are ready toinstall the component in your computer. Just before unwrapping the antistaticpackaging, be sure to discharge static electricity from your body.• When transporting a sensitive component, first place it in an antistatic container orpackaging.• Handle all sensitive components in a static-safe area. If possible, use antistatic floorpads and workbench pads.Opening the Computer CoverCAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow thesafety instructions on page 13.CAUTION: To guard against electrical shock, always unplug your computer fromthe electrical outlet before opening the cover.1 Follow the instructions in "Before You Begin" on page 80.2 If you have installed a padlock through the padlock ring on the back panel, remove thepadlock.NOTICE: Ensure that sufficient space exists to accommodate the open cover—at least 30 cm(1 ft) of desk top space.NOTICE: Be careful when opening the computer cover to ensure that you do not accidentallydisconnect cables from the system board.G0550bk1.book Page 82 Thursday, July 10, 2003 1:55 PM
