Guidelines for handling static-sensitive devices

Read these guidelines before you handle static-sensitive devices.

Attention: Static electricity can damage the chassis and other electronic devices. To avoid damage, keep static-sensitive devices in their static-protective packages until you are ready to install them.
To reduce the possibility of electrostatic discharge, observe the following precautions.
  • Limit your movement. Movement can cause static electricity to build up around you.
  • The use of a grounding system improves safety. Wear an electrostatic-discharge wrist strap, if one is available.
  • Handle the device carefully, holding it by its edges or its frame.
  • Do not touch solder joints, pins, or bare circuitry.
  • Do not leave the device where others can handle and damage it.
  • While the device is still in its static-protective package, touch it to an unpainted metal part of the chassis or rack for at least 2 seconds. Touching the chassis drains static electricity from the package and from your body.
  • Remove the device from its package and install it immediately without setting down the device. If it is necessary to set down the device, put it back into its static-protective package.
  • Take extra care when you handle devices during times of cold weather. Indoor heating reduces ambient humidity and increases the conditions that cause static electricity to accumulate.