Computer advice

[days_unfolding]

I need to install memory in my new netbook. I bought an antistatic wrist wrap, but what on earth should I clip it to? The netbook is plastic. Any thoughts?

Comments

[bandicoot.livejournal.com]

Good question. I have to do the same thing with my laptop.

What I usually do is sit down at a table with everything at hand so I'm not doing anything to generate static while I'm working. Then I handle the computer, open it up and touch anything metal inside to dissipate any static, then do the memory replacement.

I've handled chips that way for years and never zapped anything.

[days-unfolding.livejournal.com]

Thanks!

[alexpgp.livejournal.com]

Place your computer on a work surface. Plug in its power adapter and the adapter into the wall. This grounds the computer, removing any residual charge. Before you sit down, touch something nearby that will ground you, like a metal faucet, light switch screw, etc. and sit down at the table.

Unscrew the cover to the memory slot area. Once the cover is off, unplug the adapter. This disconnects the computer from the ground, but unless you're in some kind of strange environment (like sitting next to an operating Van de Graaf generator), the computer will remain neutrally charged.

For good measure, touch some part of the metal chassis revealed by removing the cover, then don the strap and carefully attach the free end of the strap to a piece of that metal chassis. Then carefully remove the old memory, if necessary.

Remove the new memory from its packaging. Avoid handling the copper traces that are to go into the memory slot(s).

Observing the right orientation of the memory, insert it into the slot(s), making sure it clicks into place.

Unclip the strap. Reattach the adapter. Replace the cover and the screws. You're done.

There's probably quite a bit of overkill built into the impromptu procedure above. Under normal circumstances, you could insert memory into a computer with no strap at all, provided you're not in an environment that's conducive to creating a static charge.

Standard disclaimers apply. Good luck.

Cheers...

[days-unfolding.livejournal.com]

Thanks for the detailed instructions!

[days-unfolding.livejournal.com]

Worked like a charm. Thanks again!