How do I ground myself?

[katielou1]

I want to install my new FireWire PCI card but the instructions tell me to make sure I am grounded when I work on the hard drive. How do I do this?

[Ethel]

Where latex gloves. Or an anti-static wristband that you can buy.

In all honesty - as long as the pc is unplugged you will be ok. Just touch a metal part of the case before touching anything sensitive - this will discharge any electricity.

[RATTER15]

I just ground myself by touching the bare metal of the case as already suggested by Ethel

[robthedj]

For approx 15 seconds hold on to a radiator in your house/flat or a kitchen/bathroom sink tap to be sure! Static charge risk to a card is low, walking around on carpet "charges" you up but following mine or any of the above suggestions will be fine

[wildwood]

I strongly disagree with the above. Some of the components on cards and mobos are super sensitive to voltage variations and are easily damaged by micro voltage surges. The electricity generated by your muscles is enough.

An anti-static wristband is essential when rooting around with IT components. As a temporary substitude you can use an alligator clip with a wire and wind around your finger/wrist.

[fo3nix]

I'm with ratter. Just touch a metal part of the case chassis, and when you're fitting it try and not dance about on the carpet too much :)

[mikeyp]

Am I right in thinking that the pc should be plugged in (though switched off) for the case to act as an earth?

[fo3nix]

Have it unplugged.