by dabthoms » Sun Mar 17, 2013 6:04 pm
When inside your computer make sure you're aware of ESD and all it's potential dangers.
(Short for ElectroStatic Discharge, ESD is one of the few things an individual can do to damage or destroy your computer or hardware components. Much like the shock you receive when rubbing your feet on the carpet and touching something metal, ESD can occur when working in your computer and will cause components you touch to no longer work properly. ESD can occur without you feeling a shock and will only occur while working on the inside of the computer.)
The best method of preventing ESD is to use an ESD wrist strap or use a grounding mat. If you don't have either follow the steps below to help reduce the chances of ESD as much as possible.
Zero Potential - Most importantly, make sure you and the computer are at Zero Potential by continuously touching an un-painted metal surface of the chassis or the computer power supply case.
Standing - It is also very important that you are standing at all times when working on the computer. Setting on a chair can generate more electrostatic.
Cords - Make sure everything is removed from the back of the computer (power cord, mouse, keyboard, etc).
Clothes - Make sure not to wear any clothing that conducts a lot of Electrical Charge, such as a wool sweater.
Accessories - To help reduce ESD and help prevent other problem, it is also a good idea to remove all jewellery.
Open the computer case and find the battery on the computer motherboard, verify that it will be accessible and that it can be removed. Most computers today use a coin cell CMOS battery.
Some CMOS batteries may be held down by a metal clip or bar. This clip just holds the battery in place and the battery can still be removed by sliding it under the clip. Do not bend this clip to get the battery out.
If you are unable to locate your CMOS battery refer to your motherboard or computer documentation or your computer manufacturer for additional assistance in locating it.
Unfortunately, most manufacturers don't list the exact type and model of your CMOS battery; therefore, once you have located the battery, write down all information about the battery (Voltage, chemistry, wiring, and packaging). If possible, remove the battery and take it to the shop you're getting a new battery from. The part number for this battery for most computers is CR2032.