An IT technician is preparing a workstation to safely replace a damaged system board inside a desktop computer sensitive to electrostatic discharge (ESD). What is the correct sequence of steps the technician should take from first to last to ensure personal safety and prevent ESD damage?
- 1Shut down the desktop computer and disconnect the power cable from the electrical wall outlet.
- 2Lay down an anti-static mat on the work surface and connect its grounding cord to a grounded grounding point.
- 3Secure the anti-static wrist strap around your wrist and attach its alligator clip to the anti-static mat or unpainted metal chassis.
- 4Remove the replacement system board from its protective anti-static bag and place it directly onto the grounded anti-static mat.
Answer
The correct sequence begins with disconnecting the power cord from the wall outlet, followed by laying down and grounding the anti-static mat, securing the ESD wrist strap to the grounded point, and finally removing the replacement system board from its anti-static bag onto the mat.
The procedure begins by disconnecting main AC power to ensure technician electrical safety. Next, the anti-static mat is prepared and connected to a ground point. The technician then fastens the ESD wrist strap to equalize potential between their body and the ground point. Finally, with ESD protections active, the new system board can be removed from its anti-static packaging safely.
Step-by-Step Solution
Key Concept
ESD safety controls and procedural sequence for field servicing