static electricity can damage electronic devices, including your computer. to avoid damage, keep static-sensitive devices in their static protective packages until you are ready to install them.

    to reduce the possibility of damage from electrostatic discharge, observe the following precautions:

    1 limit your movement. movement can cause static electricity to build up around you.

    2 handle the device carefully, holding it by its edges or its frame.

    3 do not touch solder joints, pins, or exposed circuitry.

    4 do not leave the device where others can handle and damage it.

    5 while the device is still in its static-protective package, touch it to an unpainted metal part of the computer for at least 2 seconds. this drains static electricity from the package and from your body.

    6 remove the device from its package and install it directly into the computer without setting down the device. if it is necessary to set down the device, put it back into its static-protective package. do not place the device on your computer cover or on a metal surface.

    7 take additional care when handling devices during cold weather. heating reduces indoor humidity and increases static electricity.