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Hardware Installation
Handling the Graphics Card
It is quite easy to inadvertently damage your graphics card even before installing
it in your system unit. Electrostatic discharge can damage computer components
without causing any signs of physical damage. You must take extra care in han-
dling the graphics card to ensure that no static build-up is present.
Tips in Handling the Graphics Card
1. To prevent electrostatic build-up, leave the graphics card in its anti-static bag
until you are ready to install it.
2. Do all preparation work on a static-free surface with graphics card compo-
nents facing up.
3. Hold the graphics card by its edges only. Be careful not to touch any of the
components, contacts or connections, especially gold contacts, on the board.
Installing the Graphics Card
For most computer systems, you will only need a medium size Phillips screw-
driver to remove the cover and a small flat-blade screwdriver to secure the moni
-
tor cable.
Important:
Electrostatic discharge (ESD) can damage the graphics card, system
board, processor, disk drives, add-in boards, and other components.
Perform the upgrade instruction procedures described at an ESD work-
station only. If such a station is not available, you can provide some
ESD protection by wearing an antistatic wrist strap and attaching it to a
metal part of the system chassis. If a wrist strap is unavailable, establish
and maintain contact with the system chassis throughout any procedures
requiring ESD protection.
