I just looked at the pictures linked from the news section of people handing a rather expensive piece of hardware from one person to another and installing them in a system with no anti-static protection.

Ok, I don't put the equipment on an anti-static mat and all that at home, but I do usually use a 5 dollar wrist strap. I don't see how to do a poll on this forum so how about some discussion. The chances that their improper handling will cause any noticeable damage to that hardware is slim, but measurable. How many of us even try to reduce those chances when dealing with our computers?

I don't do much personally but I do take some precautions to prevent ruining expensive equipment.

1. Leave the PSU plugged in but turned off.
2. Always discharge static elecricity from my person my touching grounded metal before handling equipment.
3. Try not to touch any of the SMT components.
4. Took the rug out of my study.
5. For my "uncased" system I installed the screws/ standoffs for the mobo so it is not resting directly on anything. I'm also guessing that they have those locations on the board isolated or grounded.

I looked at the pictures again and in none of them are the SMT components being touched. Just saying they may have been more careful than the pictures show.
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Thanks - Steve

I use a wooden bench and have rubber mats on the floor - seriously!

After donating two fermi-cards i am completly naked, so no anti-static!

Please stop this thread?

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Ton (ftpd) Netherlands

Perhaps we should start a poll on where people attach their *wrist* straps.