Adaptec 2020SA User Guide - Page 28

Introduction Electrostatic Discharge Electrostatic Discharge (ESD) is a natural by-product of human activity. ESD is produced by materials that accumulate and retain electrical charges which are transferred to people or other objects upon contact. ! Caution: ESD can damage electronic components when they are improperly handled and can result in total or intermittent failures. Always follow ESD-prevention procedures when removing and replacing components. To prevent ESD damage: ■ Use an ESD wrist or ankle strap and ensure that it makes skin contact. Connect the equipment end of the strap to an unpainted metal surface on the chassis. If a wrist strap is not available, ground yourself by touching the metal chassis before handling the controller or any other part of the computer. ■ Avoid touching the controller against your clothing. The wrist strap protects components from ESD voltages present on the body only. ESD voltages on clothing can still cause damage. ■ Handle your controller by its bracket or edges only. Avoid touching the printed circuit board or the connectors. ■ When you need to put your controller down, use an antistatic surface such as the bag supplied in your kit. ■ If you plan to return the controller to Adaptec, put it back in its antistatic bag immediately. 1-16