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Safety tips for computer do-it-yourselfers

There are two types of computer do-it-yourselfers; those who tinker the operating system and programs and those who assume the role of mechanic and will open their computer to fix broken stuff or to upgrade parts of their computer with newer and faster stuff. While the mechanics tend to fiddle on the software level as well, the reverse is not that common. My definition of a computer do-it-yourselfer will be that of the mechanics; the people who dabble in hardware.

The most important safety rule for a hobbyist opening up his computer is to do just that. The difference between an armature and a professional is that a professional has the necessary training and has read at least one book on the subject. Many hobbyists will delve into the innards of their computer without having even read at least the instruction manual that came with their computer, motherboard or the component they want to plug in. Companies can sue you if the job is not up the scratch; for more if you damage a functional machine! If you want to become a professional find yourself a good training institution and start from there.

The second most important safety rule is to read the instructions that come with the device. For example, if you do not know what static electricity means and how to discharge yourself from it, you could damage a brand new piece of kit. I have seen someone destroy a motherboard simply because he did not read that the instruction that said that the video card was held by a (movable) latch at the back. Other areas in which you can make mistakes if you do not read the manual are the correct positioning of fans so that you get proper airflow that keeps your computer operating at optimal speed. The list is huge.

The third safety rule is to ensure that the computer is not plugged into the electrical socket before you open it. You could damage it as well as yourself. A mistake here can destroy a computer and hurt or kill you.

Never try to fix anything beyond your competence level. Opening a power supply unit is simply not done. If it breaks down, go to the nearest computer shop and purchase a replacement unit. Here we are talking about replacing high level components that make up a computer and not using a soldering iron to replace capacitors and resistors.

Behave reasonably and responsibly towards yourself and your loved one. A few years back I was called in to investigate a fire that started from a computer. The damage ran into the

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