How To Open your tower or desktop computer case safely

It used to be considered dangerous to attempt to open a computer case in your own home . However now days people ignore this idea and take the risk by repairing their own computers. If you must open your own tower or desktop computer case, then there are some common precautions to adhere to.

Different computer cases open in different ways. For example a desktop computer case may have two clips or buttons on either side, and when pressed, the case slides off. A tower computer case may need to have screws removed at the back to enable the sides to slide off. Cases are now being designed with easy access as a top priority.

How to open a computer case safely

There was always the idea that you needed an antistatic strap before opening a computer case. This is undoubtedly is the safest way to do this, however there are other options. Here are a few tips from a self confessed, no frills, computer techie. 

How To Open A Computer Case Safely with the correct tools

1. Remove all power cords that are connected to the computer case.
2. This includes network cables, modems, printers, everything…Wait a few seconds as the power leaves the main board.
3. Make sure your hands are clean and definitely DRY. Remove all jewelry.
4. Open your computer case by unscrewing or unclipping. See your computer manual for instructions if you have problems. Older computers can be difficult to open. Keep any screws or spare parts in a safe place.
5. To protect your computer from static electricity stored on your body, (ESD) continually touch the unpainted metal part of the case to discharge any static. Or if you have a antistatic or grounding strap, use that. This will prevent the static sensitive components from being ruined. (memory, video card, motherboard)
6. Ok. Now you are ready to work on the insides of your computer.

How to open different types of computer cases?

• Different brands of computers or cases open in a completely different way. Here are some examples for you. Please be careful when opening a computer case as sometimes there can be sharp bits
• To open a dell desktop GX260, or GX270 there are two buttons to press in and then lift the case open like a hinged door.
• To open a HP D510 tower desktop you need to unscrew the tiny knobs at the back, then slide back the the two sides and top together.
• To open a HP D510 small form desktop there are two buttons, one on either side of the case. Press them both in and slide the top, sides and front off in one piece. You slide it off towards the front.

To open a HP D530 small form desktop you can undo the thumbscrew at the back of the case. The top plate of the computer will slide toward the back of the computer. When sliding the top back on it sometimes knocks off the face plate.

Now you know how to open a computer case safely, you should also read How to clean the inside of your computer safely.