Operational Procedures
Read through the information below and take the quiz at the end.
There are a few different tools required to work on a computer. However, for basic repairs and maintenance you can usually get by just using a Philips screwdriver.
A professional IT repair kit would would be similar to this one. In that kit you might find:
hex wrenches
wire-stripper/cutter
ESD strap
various screw driver heads
CPU remover
small pliers
tweezers
If you work on computers a lot this is a handy kit to have.
danger!
There is a danger of getting shocked when working on a computer. You can avoid this by unplugging your computer while working on it.
Another danger is to the computer components themselves. Even a computer that's unplugged can be damaged by ESD, or electro-static discharge.
By not handling computer parts properly, you can damage parts with static electricity.
To avoid this always touch the metal case of a computer before working, wear an ESD strap, and use anti-static mats and bags.
Too avoid getting shocked or damaging internal components make sure it is unplugged.
It's not enough to turn off the small switch on the power supply - the plug must be removed!
If available it's best to use an ESD strap. These go around your wrist, and then connect to the computer case. They will keep static-electricity from travelling through your body and then shorting out parts in the computer.
Anti-static mats are basically rubber mats that you place the computer on while working.
There are also mats that you can stand on. Ideally you would have both of these when working on a computer.
Anti-static bags are used to store computer components in. They can protect loose computer parts from ESD, moisture, and dust.
In addition to the safety procedures above, there are other things to consider while working on your computers.
No running around, wrestling etc. There may be cords/cables around the computers that you can trip on. You can get hurt, or you can damage the computers.
Leave parts where they are. The more you handle a computer part the more chance it has of getting lost or broken.
If you're not working on the computer or helping, then get out of the computer work area.
Pay attention! Focus on what you're doing. If you're removing or installing a computer part focus on that so you don't break something.
Take your time and don't force components or plugs into their slots/ports.
If you can't behave around the computers while they're being worked on you will be asked to sit down quietly without anything to do. Consider this your 1st warning.
NOTE: You must score 100% on the quiz before you will be able to work on your computers! Double check your answer and retake it if you need to!