Repairing a PC on your own can save money and time that or else spend waiting for a technician. Handling a PC correctly needs a fair amount of knowledge about PC safety, containing how to keep body safe from harm, with how to avoid damaging the inside of unit.

ESD safety

1. Always ensure that you are electro static discharge (ESD) compliant when you open PC. Taking ESD insurances will make sure you do not harm the inside of PC with static electricity generated from body. ESD wrist or ankle straps must be worn and attached to an ESD mat placed on work surface. The mat must be plugged into a wall socket to 'ground' the mat, giving electricity a place to go when discharged.

Clothing and Handling

2. When working on a PC do not wear wool or any synthetic clothing as this creates excess static electricity. Wear anti-static shoes also. Take off any metal objects so as not to conduct electricity.

As removing parts out of PC always hold them by body and not connectors. Put all removed parts in an anti-static bag to cut the chance of break. Anti-static bags can be bought from good electronics stores.

All the time turn off any secondary devices connected to PC when working on unit. When disconnecting wires ensure to label them so that you can place them back in right position. Putting a wire in wrong area can cause a short circuit in PC.

Cathode Ray Tube

3. If you are working on an old PC that has a cathode ray tube, or CRT monitor, you want to take additional care. CRT monitors are bigger in look. Usually they look like old television models and when shut off have a line going through center of the screen. CRT monitors are under a vacuum, thus when opening the monitor ensure not to break any of tubing inside. After open, do not handle or carry monitor by thin neck of the tubing. This is weakest part. Remember that a CRT monitor carry a charge even when unplugged. Disconnect from your ESD mat.