nerdexam
CompTIA

220-801 · Question #18

Which of the following is the FIRST thing a technician should do before putting their hand inside a computer case?

The correct answer is B. Touch the case to discharge static. Before reaching inside a computer case, the very first action is to touch the case to discharge any built-up static electricity from your body, preventing ESD damage to components.

Hardware

Question

Which of the following is the FIRST thing a technician should do before putting their hand inside a computer case?

Options

  • AAcquire the appropriate tools that are going to be used.
  • BTouch the case to discharge static.
  • CRemove loose jewelry.
  • DRefer to manufacturer documentation.

How the community answered

(30 responses)
  • A
    7% (2)
  • B
    90% (27)
  • C
    3% (1)

Why each option

Before reaching inside a computer case, the very first action is to touch the case to discharge any built-up static electricity from your body, preventing ESD damage to components.

AAcquire the appropriate tools that are going to be used.

Acquiring the appropriate tools is a preparation step that should happen before approaching the computer, but it does not address the immediate ESD risk of placing a hand inside the case.

BTouch the case to discharge static.Correct

Touching the metal computer case (while it is still plugged in but powered off, or after unplugging) equalizes the electrical potential between the technician and the chassis, discharging any static buildup. This is the primary ESD precaution taken immediately before handling internal components, as even a small static discharge can permanently damage sensitive circuitry.

CRemove loose jewelry.

Removing loose jewelry is a physical safety measure to prevent scratching components or shorting contacts, but it does not discharge static and should occur before touching the case.

DRefer to manufacturer documentation.

Referring to manufacturer documentation is good practice for complex repairs but is not the immediate safety action required before touching internal components.

Concept tested: ESD discharge procedure before handling components

Source: https://www.esd.org/resources/esd-basics

Topics

#ESD protection#static discharge#safety procedures#grounding

Community Discussion

No community discussion yet for this question.

Full 220-801 Practice