Question

Difficulty: EasySafety Procedures and Environmental Controls

A technician is preparing to open a desktop PC case to replace a failed RAM module. Which TWO of the following actions should the technician perform prior to handling internal components to ensure personal safety and prevent Electrostatic Discharge (ESD) damage? (Select TWO)

  1. Disconnect the AC power cord from the wall outlet or power supply.Answer
  2. Attach an anti-static wrist strap to an unpainted metal surface of the computer chassis.Answer
  3. C
    Stand directly on high-pile synthetic carpet while wearing rubber-soled shoes.
  4. D
    Connect an ESD grounding clip directly to a wire inside the open power supply unit.

Answer

The technician should disconnect the AC power cord from the power supply or outlet and attach an anti-static wrist strap to an unpainted metal portion of the computer frame.
Disconnecting the AC power cord ensures electrical safety by cutting off live electrical current. Attaching an anti-static wrist strap to an unpainted metal chassis surface equalizes static electrical charge between the technician's body and the hardware, preventing ESD from damaging sensitive memory modules.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Ensure physical electrical safety
Removing the AC power cord eliminates active electrical potential and prevents shock hazards while working inside the case.
Safety procedures mandate completely disconnecting power before touching internal hardware.
2
Implement ESD mitigation controls
Clipping an ESD wrist strap onto an unpainted metal surface grounds the technician to the computer chassis, equalizing electrical charges.
Sensitive components like RAM modules are highly vulnerable to damage from low-voltage ESD transfers.

Key Concept

Basic Electrostatic Discharge (ESD) Prevention and Workstation Electrical Safety
Estimated Time:45s
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