ix
Protecting Against Electrostatic Discharge
Static electricity can harm delicate components inside your computer. To prevent
static damage, discharge static electricity from your body before you touch any of
your computer’s electronic components, such as the microprocessor. You can do so
by touching an unpainted metal surface on the computer chassis.
As you continue to work inside the computer, periodically touch an unpainted metal
surface to remove any static charge your body may have accumulated.
You can also take the following steps to prevent damage from electrostatic
discharge (ESD):
• When unpacking a static-sensitive component from its shipping carton, do not
remove the component from the antistatic packing material until you are ready to
install the component in your computer. Just before unwrapping the antistatic
packaging, be sure to discharge static electricity from your body.
• When transporting a sensitive component, first place it in an antistatic container
or packaging.
• Handle all sensitive components in a static-safe area. If possible, use antistatic
floor pads and workbench pads.
The following notice may appear throughout this document to remind you of these
precautions:
NOTICE: See “Protecting Against Electrostatic Discharge” in the safety
instructions at the front of this guide.
Ergonomic Computing Habits
CAUTION: Improper or prolonged keyboard use may result in injury.
CAUTION: Viewing the monitor screen for extended periods of time may
result in eye strain.
For comfort and efficiency, observe the following ergonomic guidelines when you set
up and use your computer system:
• Position your system so that the monitor and keyboard are directly in front of you
as you work. Special shelves are available (from Dell and other sources) to help
you correctly position your keyboard.
• Set the monitor at a comfortable viewing distance (usually 510 to 610 millimeters
[20to24inches]fromyoureyes).
• Make sure that the monitor screen is at eye level or slightly lower when you sit in
frontofthemonitor.
• Adjust the tilt of the monitor, its contrast and brightness settings, and the lighting
around you (such as overhead lights, desk lamps, and the curtains or blinds on
nearby windows) to minimize reflections and glare on the monitor screen.