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Handling static-sensitive devices

Review these guidelines before you handle static-sensitive devices to reduce the possibility of damage from electrostatic discharge.

Attention
Prevent exposure to static electricity, which might lead to system halt and loss of data, by keeping static-sensitive components in their static-protective packages until installation, and handling these devices with an electrostatic-discharge wrist strap or other grounding system.

  • Limit your movement to prevent building up static electricity around you.

  • Take additional care when handling devices during cold weather, for heating would reduce indoor humidity and increase static electricity.

  • Always use an electrostatic-discharge wrist strap or other grounding system, particularly when working inside the server with the power on.

  • While the device is still in its static-protective package, touch it to an unpainted metal surface on the outside of the server for at least two seconds. This drains static electricity from the package and from your body.

  • Remove the device from the package and install it directly into the server without putting it down. If it is necessary to put the device down, put it back into the static-protective package. Never place the device on the server or on any metal surface.

  • When handling a device, carefully hold it by the edges or the frame.

  • Do not touch solder joints, pins, or exposed circuitry.

  • Keep the device from others’ reach to prevent possible damages.