I'm about to put together my first computer, in 5 minutes...

[Pr0d1gy]

I already have the basics in the case, CD ROM, PSU, Hard Drive, etc., but I am about to put the CPU on the mobo & hook it all up together. What I am worried about is static discharge mainly. I have no bracelet, so can I just plug the PSU in & ground myself on that? Does the PSU need to be plugged into anything?

 

[ShadowBlade]

plug your psu into the wall and make sure the switch is on (dont connect any power cables without atleast switching it off) and then touch anything thats metal and grouned before touching any parts (such as your case)

 

[PurdueRy]

....Why even plug the PSU in. Its not grounding the case. I would not do this as it is much more dangerous to have a plugged in and switched on powersupply just sitting there than to just touch the case....if theres and difference in charge...it will discharge you

 

[Pr0d1gy]

OK is the thermal grease already on the retail heatsink? I don't want to put it on without grease of course. This is a used CPU, but it came "retail", and I don't see any grease package or anything so I am guessing it is preapplied?

 

[mechBgon]

Here's something that might help: photo guide to computer assembly, plus some security tips

Plugging in the PSU and leaving it switched off will ground the case, and I would (and do) do that.

 

[Pr0d1gy]

OK, I already had your guide open when I started this endeavor.

The heatsink should have grease even though it is used, right?

 

[imported_itr]

if the heatsink is used, re-apply some thermal grease. you do not want to use old thermal grease.

 

[Pr0d1gy]

Originally posted by: itr
if the heatsink is used, re-apply some thermal grease. you do not want to use old thermal grease.

Yeah that's what I was wondering. Headed to the store for grease, bbiaf.

 

[darbius]

Hmm, if I buy this processor will it come with thermal grease or do I need to buy a tube of it in addition? Also, to clarify the grounding, my case that I'm ordering will come with a power supply already in it. If I plug it in and leave it off, I can then just touch the aluminum case and that'll ground me? Thanks.

 

[Pr0d1gy]

No, since you're buying yours new it will already have it on there with a plastic thing covering it. Yeah just plug in the PSU & touch it regularly while handling your components.

 

[darbius]

Originally posted by: Pr0d1gy
No, since you're buying yours new it will already have it on there with a plastic thing covering it. Yeah just plug in the PSU & touch it regularly while handling your components.

Thanks a bunch! Puttin my first PC together next weekend!