Basics - Unplug or Keep Plugged In?

[guptasa1]

Hey all,

I've recently stumbled across some contradicting information and wanted to clear something up.

When working on the inside of a PC (installing a part, etc.), is it best to leave the machine plugged in or unplug it?

I was always told to keep it plugged in and touch the metal structure periodically to ensure no static electricity is present...

But then I read an article recently that said you should always unplug a computer when working on it (but still touch the metal part periodically).

Which is it? I've been doing the former (leaving it plugged in) for years without problems thus far. LOL.

Thanks!

 

[HermDogg]

Depends on what it is youre doing. If you're clearing teh CMOS, leave it plugged it in. Anything else, you might as well unplug it as to avoid teh shocking of yourself.

 

[LongCoolMother]

sometimes i unplug. sometimes i keep it plugged. never had any problems. and i handle my hardware pretty bluntly too.

 

[mechBgon]

Plugged in, but with the PSU's rocker switch Off, results in no power to the motherboard, yet keeps the chassis grounded. How's that