Couple questions about Electro Static Shock damage..

[Scouzer]

1) Is it safe to unhook the powersupply and all other cords? Or does this mean it is no longer grounded?
2) If not, is it best to turn off the PSU or not

Thanks

P.S. I'm 99% sure I know the answers but safe is better then sorry when I just bought $1100 worth of new components

 

[Scouzer]

Anyone?

 

[compudog]

Not really sure what you are asking. If you want to work inside your PC, changing components etc, you should unhook the power cord to the wall, always. The case and everything in it are no longer connected to ground. If you want to prevent ESD you want to use a wrist strap while working or frequently touch some metal that is connected to ground.

 

[Scouzer]

Originally posted by: compudog
Not really sure what you are asking. If you want to work inside your PC, changing components etc, you should unhook the power cord to the wall, always. The case and everything in it are no longer connected to ground. If you want to prevent ESD you want to use a wrist strap while working or frequently touch some metal that is connected to ground.

Yeah see this is what I mean. Is that if the case is unhooked from the wall, isn't it no longer grounded? If its sitting on a wooden table and all...

(I connect a static wrist strap to my case)

 

[pelikan]

The wrist strap will work without your psu plugged in. There's enough metal on your case to ground you. Some people leave their psu's plugged in and use the switch on the psu to turn it off (not all psu's have a switch) so that the case is grounded when they work on it.
I unplug my psu to work on it and don't use a wrist strap. I just touch my case before touching components.

 

[Insidious]

(I connect a static wrist strap to my case)

That is the correct place to strap yourself. You want your potential to match that of the case and components. However, it is best to connect your case to ground, (aligator clips or anything) at the same time you are strapped to the case. That way you KNOW you are not carrying a potential difference
in your body or case that could equalize through sensitive parts.

Be warned.... If you strap yourself to ground, but do not also strap the case.... you have accomplished NOTHING to prevent ESD damage.

-Sid