E Preventing Electrostatic Damage; Electrostatic Precautions; Grounding Methods - HP Cluster Platform Introduction v2010 Introduction Manual

E Preventing Electrostatic Damage

To avoid damaging the system, you must follow the configuration procedures and be aware of
the standard precautions for handling electronic parts. A discharge of static electricity from a
finger or other conductor might damage system boards or other static-sensitive devices. This
type of damage can reduce the life expectancy of the device.
E.1 Electrostatic Precautions
To prevent electrostatic damage, follow these guidelines:
• Avoid hand contact by transporting and storing products in static-safe containers.
• Keep electrostatic-sensitive parts in their containers until they arrive at static-free
workstations.
• Place parts on a grounded surface before removing them from their containers.
• Avoid touching pins, leads, or circuitry.
• Always be properly grounded when touching a static-sensitive component or assembly.
E.2 Grounding Methods
Use one or more of the following grounding methods when handling or installing
electrostatic-sensitive parts:
• Use a wrist strap connected by a ground cord to a grounded workstation or computer chassis.
Wrist straps are flexible straps with a minimum of 1 megaohm 10 percent resistance in the
ground cords. To provide proper grounding, wear the strap snug against the skin.
• Use heel straps, toe straps, or boot straps at standing workstations. Wear the straps on both
feet when standing on conductive floors or dissipating floor mats.
• Use conductive field service tools.
• Use a portable field service kit with a folding static-dissipating work mat.
• If the suggested equipment for proper grounding is not available, have an HP service
representative install the part.
For more information about static electricity, or for assistance with product installation, contact
an HP service representative.
E.1 Electrostatic Precautions 57