How to Destroy Your Computer!

Ben Vitale

 

Did you ever wonder why your computer died? You used it yesterday and today it refuses to go on! A computer fails for many technical reasons, but I have destroyed three computers because of a static electric discharge, from my body. On two occasions I heard a snap, and saw a small spark as I pressed the power button on my computer; I knew immediately that my computer was destroyed. On another occasion I drew a spark to my keyboard; that destroyed Computer number three!

When humidity is low your body could charge up like a capacitor, to voltages in the area of 10,000 Volts. Did you ever draw a spark from your body when you touched a “ground” such as a water faucet? When you see and hear the spark you should also feel an electrical shock. Some computer components are only rated at 5 volts; you can imagine what 10,000 volts will do to these components!

It might be a good idea to position your computer near an available “ground” if possible!  I personally prefer to place a bare Copper wire across my desk that is attached to a “ground,” such as a water pipe or radiator.

When humidity is low and conditions are conducive to generating static electric charges, I usually get some advanced warning; every time I touch the room light switch, my body discharges through the light switch. So… When this happens I spray the room with Radio Shack Anti -Static Spray, before turning on my computer.

When you walk across the room to use your computer, always discharge your body to a “Ground” before touching or pressing the button to turn on the computer. Also; do not touch the keyboard before discharging your body. Once you discharge yourself do not move or slide any part of your body, before pressing the “on” button.

Do not attempt to install a ground wire without contracting your Electrician, to ascertain that your household wiring and equipment is safe to use.

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