Safety precautions when installing new hard drives

Installing a new hard drive can be quite an easy thing to do, but many people avoid this task because they are not comfortable being around the electronic boards inside a computer case. There are many things that can go wrong if you are not careful, so it is recommended that you have a computer professional do this for you if you are in any doubt. If this isn’t an option for you and you want to give it a try, there are some basic rules you should follow to protect yourself and the computer you’re working on. There is always the possibility of a download, so be sure to be very careful when attempting any work on computers.

It is recommended that you purchase a grounding strap when working on sensitive equipment such as a computer. This bracelet is placed on your wrist and has an attached wire that clips to any grounded surface.

Make sure the computer is unplugged before you start working inside.

You should never have liquids like water or coffee around your workspace because they will destroy your motherboard in a matter of seconds.

When unscrewing the old unit from the case, be very careful that the screwdriver does not come into contact with anything other than the screws you are loosening.

When unplugging the power and data cable from the back of the hard drive, be sure not to pull with enough force to damage the cable or pins.

Set the screws aside and DO NOT loosen them. Take the new hard drive out of the antistatic bag, taking care to screw it into the case. Carefully route the cables you took from the old hard drive and connect them to the new one. If the old hard drive is still OK, place it in the antistatic bag that the new hard drive came in. This will prevent data loss.

Remember, be careful and have fun!