Question about building procedure

[Bagheera786]

I have been wondering whether it would be advisable for me to wear a pair of latex or rubber gloves while working on my computer. Will latex or rubber insulate the computer from me, thereby preventing static discharge problems? Obviously, I will follow the usual "touch the case" procedure regardless, but .... perhaps this would add additional safety....

 

[madthumbs]

I *think* rubber and latex can hold a static charge. Also, there are plenty of small sharp solder spikes that would likely perforate the gloves. In this event, if they did insulate the charge you'd be taking more of a risk because touching the case with the glove wouldn't have discharged you.

 

[CurtCold]

Just always stay in contact with the case, it's not that hard to do. I've never known anyone who has fried computer parts with static electricity. Best rule, make sure it's unplugged, and you give capaciters time to drain. I have heard that there is a small risk of static electricity when on carpeted floors, but still I would say the risk is minmal. I've never heard of the effects of rubber gloves. Don't worry about them as long as you touch the case.

 

[elzmaddy]

Why don't you buy an antistatic wrist strap? It attaches to your wrist and there is a wire witha metal clip on the end that attaches to your computer case, thereby grounding you. I think one can be had for about $5 from CyberGuys.com. I have one, but I don't think I will use it -- simply because the risk is that minimal, in my opinion.

 

[techfuzz]

Just touch the power supply to ground yourself before you start mucking around and don't drag your socked feet across the carpet and everything will be fine. I've been working on computers for years and years and have yet to fry anything due to static electricity using that advice.

techfuzz

 

[madthumbs]

My sister fried a modem with static. Are you really supposed to work on it unplugged? I assumed you turn the power off on the power supply, but leave it plugged in so it's grounded.

 

[mrzed]

I flip the switch on the back of the power supply, but leave it plugged in. For that exact reason.

 

[vash]

I've worked with computers without gloves, wearing socks and on carpet for the longest time -- no direct harm has come because of it. However, grounding is important and you sould always be touching metal when dealing with an electric charge. When dealing with the case and power supply, make sure the switch is off and the cable isn't in -- that's what I typically do.

After building dozens of boxes, its worked well for me througout the years.

vash