Need to swap a HDD. I know I shouldn't do it while standing on carpet

[riffwraith]

So, I am fully aware of what ESD is and what it can do...

My computer sits inside of a closet, on a shelf. I have the ability to access the interior, and swap a HDD. Which I am going to need to do - at least a few times (old and new - back and forth). Problem is, when I do this, I will be standing on carpet. I know what the really safe thing to do would be: pull the computer out, and put it on my wood table in my kitchen. I can then swap the HDD while standing on my wood floor. Problem there, is the back and forth, and the hooking/unhooking of 11 cables and three dongles - several times.

Is there a safe way to do this without having to pull the computer out and taking it to my kitchen? Can I stand on something, like a wooden board (which, of course, will be sitting on top of the carpet)? If so, should I wear my sneakers with rubber soles? Any other ideas?

Thanks in advance.

 

[oscer1]

hi i have never had a problem changing out a hard drive standing on carpet just ground your self to the case before going inside of case. if your worried about it. get a piece of wood or cardboard and stand on that. you should be fine. can get a grounding strap too if you want.

 

[whs]

You worry too much. It is very unlikely that you will have a problem. Only in very dry climate like e.g. in Denver could you possibly have a problem.

 

[Lady Fitzgerald]

Whs is correct; you are not likely to have a problem. However, it never hurts to be cautious. Just make sure you touch the HDD only by the sides or the metal top, not the connectors or the PCB (Printed Circuit Board) on the bottom. Before removing the HDD, plant your feet where you can reach the HDD and keep them there until you have the HDD in hand. Touch the case of the computer with your hand, then remove the HDD from the computer. Take it to wherever it is going then set it on a static safe surface.

I wear antistatic gloves whenever I handle my drives (HDD and SSD) but, then again, I'm paranoid. You can use latex or nitrile gloves instead.

Btw, rubber soles don't help. I routinely get shocked during the winter months even when I'm wearing my Chucks because it is so dry where I live.

 

[ThrashZone]

As long as you're bare foot carpet isn't a problem.

 

[AddRAM]

As stated, just touch bare metal inside the case in a few spots, and you`ll be fine.

But throwing down a piece of cardboard is also a great idea, but still touch metal on the case.

And always unplug the pc and drain the power from it by holding down the power button for 3 or 4 seconds.

 

[Lady Fitzgerald]

As long as you're bare foot carpet isn't a problem.

Uh, I've gotten plenty of static zaps even when barefoot.

 

[ThrashZone]

Usually socks will cause it and if person drags their feet a lot.