Do i really need an ESD Kit ?

[Blackhawk47]

So i when i replace/upgrade/install/clean my graphics card and generally do work on pc or a new build. i dont use an esd kit. though talking about it recently with my IT trainer, he wouldnt touch a computer without one and makes us use one all the time whenever doing work on lab pcs.

When working inside my pc i tend to:

power off pc. however keep psu plugged in but psu switch off.
i always touch the metal inside case before hand case before hand ( ive heard it grounds you (?) ). and when i take it out i place it on a electrostatic bag thing which you tend to get with graphics cards nowadays and mobos and all the rest.
and then clean it.

is it important to have a esd kit ? and how would i properly use it as both my trainers have different ideas. one unplugs everything while another leaves the plugs in etc.

any help ?

 

[Darkwave]

i always touch the metal inside case before hand case before hand

If you do this you discharge any static you're carrying, so you don't need a kit.

 

[crazyDAJT]

i do my builds on a rug....

just earth yourself on a radiator. there was a very long thread about this in general hardware, and i think most people don't get to hung up on it.

 

[mattyrigby00]

simple answer: no

 

[killersheep34]

power off pc. however keep psu plugged in but psu switch off.
i always touch the metal inside case before hand case before hand

This is perfect because you are isolating the power supply, however, because the Earth connector is not switched, the case is still earthed. Even better then unplugging the power cable in my opinion, like soem would suggest.

 

[wombraider]

Yes If you dont want to damage your equipment

After working in the electronics industry for 15 years I recommend
you do use a strap connected to earth, I always do when working on kit.

A previous company I worked for spent 30K+ a year alone on esd foot and wrist
straps , so electronic manufacturing companies take esd seriously.

The effects of ESD damage dont always appear straight away , your system
might fail on you apparent reason at some random time in the future.

If your spending £400 on a gfx card for example , why skimp on a £5 esd strap
that might stop you damaging it.