[Ham-Computers] RE: Safely Connecting SATA Hard Drives

[Hsu, Aaron (NBC Universal)]

Jim,

In "hot" systems (systems where the power is still "on"), you always connect the data cables before applying power.  Most servers with "slide-in" type drive trays have connectors that will establish the data connections before the power.

If you're working on a "modern" desktop computer, realize that the motherboard is never fully de-energized.  The ACPI spec calls for a small amount of power to be supplied for "watchdog" type circuits.  For example, checking for someone to press the power button, a keyboard or mouse "power-on" stroke/press, a "Wake-on-LAN" signal, etc.  With this in mind, it always safer to "pull the plug" or flip a mechanical switch before working on the system.  After pulling the plug, I always press the power button to discharge the power-supply caps - if you have a really good power supply, you might notice that the CPU and system fans spin up for a split second.

And, as for static, I put my hand/fingers on a metal section of the power supply prior to pulling he plug.  If you have a way to keep the case grounded, use it.  It's rare to zap a hard drive to death, but it is possible, especially if you zap something on the circuit board.

Mechanically, handle the drive by it's edges and don't squeeze anywhere on the top cover.  Also, play attention to the "venting/breathing" hole on the top cover.  Don't cover this hole - it's there to equalize internal/external air pressure differences.

73,

  - Aaron Hsu, NN6O


-----Original Message-----
Sent: Thursday, November 16, 2006 11:24 PM
Subject: [Ham-Computers] Safely Connecting SATA Hard Drives

The SATA hard drives (one is a Western Digital WD2500JS) in my Dell E510 don't slide directly into the drive cage. They are enclosed in a plastic holder that appears to insulate them from the metal cage. 
When installing a drive, should any precautions be taken to avoid static problems - for example connect the cable that resembles a zip cord first or last?
Thanks, Jim w6ivw


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