Q: I know I can tap the case, but I ordered a nifty Anti Static Wrist Strap but has no idea how to use it.... All I know is that I strap it around my wrist and clip it to an unpainted surface of the PC case. But what are the steps? Do I leave it plugged in(My Monitor and my PSU is plugged into the same multi socket extension that has a switch on it), then clip it, then unplug it and I'll be grounded? Or what? Please help me, I am pretty much a noob.
A: Ok, You have the basic idea...here's the details... NEVER add/remove parts with the PSU plugged into the wall. That's the fastest way to fry something -- if not your computer maybe your hand! Before opening the case UNPLUG ALL THE CABLES. Power, monitor, mouse, keyboard, etc...to prevent shocks, static discharge, or just getting things tangled up. Before you start work, it's usually good to hold the power button for 10-30 seconds (while the computer is unplugged) to eliminate any left over charge in the PSU or boards. It may click, chirp, or buzz for a fraction of a second when you push the power button - that's normal, it's the extra energy being used up. If you're only working on your computer once I wouldn't worry about a wrist strap...but if you have it - use it. It's easier. The other way is to keep 1 finder on the unpainted metal frame at all times...inconvienient but cheap. Make sure the strap is tight enough the metal stays on your skin (and isn't insulated by clothing, hair, etc.) but not so tight it hurts, goes numb, or changes color :) Clip the other end to the unpainted metal like you said. That's about it for static...just be carefull, follow directions for whatever you're fixing and use common sense! TIP: the frames that hold in your hard-drives, CD-ROMs, and PCI cards usually have extra holes and are metal. Very nifty and secure places to clip that wrist strap to! As long as you're taking the case apart I suggest you do the following...it'll make your work easier and computer run better for longer. -Use a tissue or paper towel to wipe built-up dust off the frame or plastic case. Stay away from circuit-bards at this point. -Take canned air and a normal vacuum to clean the cooling fans, PSU, and heat-sinks (but don't remove the heat-sink unless you really know what you're doing). DO NOT let the vacuum touch anything - keep it an inch or more away and blow the dust loose with the canned air. The dust will be immediately sucked into the vacuum by the air currents. -Look for dust collected anywhere else and determine how to remove it - if it's just on the frame or case you can pick it out but if it's on a board use the canned air/vacuum technique. It's caused any trouble for me. -Look at the wires. If you accidently pull something out you want to know where it went.