What are some important safety tips when working inside of a computer?

Professor Messer | Jun 15, 2009 | Comments 4



The inside of a computer can be a dangerous place. Which one of these safety tips do NOT apply when working inside of a computer?

A) Keep the power cord plugged into the wall to ground against static discharges

B) Be gentle with the internal components to avoid knocking any cables loose

C) Don’t directly touch any of the sensitive components

D) Avoid contact with moving parts


On First Page1. The Question2. The Answer

Filed Under: CompTIA A+ Pop Quizzes

Tags: •



  • Charles wieand

    Okay so I agree but I’m studying an Exam CRAM book and it is telling me that the ground plug is the best tool for overcoming ESD.

    This can be done by just touching the outside of the case. This does not seem safe to me. Thoughts?

    • http://www.ProfessorMesser.com Professor Messer

      You don’t necessarily need an electrical ground to be protected against electrostatic discharge. In most cases, the easiest way to protect yourself is by bonding with a metal part of the computer.

      Although some environments need constant ground protection against static electricity (chemical storage facilities, fuel storage facilities, etc.), working on a personal computer isn’t one of those highly volatile situations. As long as you have a wrist strap or bond with the metal, you’ll be protected.

  • http://mxproject.com John

    Would turning off the power bar or power button at the back of the power supply be just as good as unplugging the PC from the wall?

    • http://www.ProfessorMesser.com Professor Messer

      The latest motherboards are always getting power from the power supply for instant-on and standby functionality. If you want to work in an electrically safe environment, you must physically disconnect the power from the back of the computer.