what's the safest way to install ram? (by yourself)

i remember on my previous system (before i got it replaced) i installed some new ram in it, but something happened and the ram behind the keyboard got messed up. so i was using it on 512mb of ram. whats the safest way to replace ram without any risk of damaging the laptop (static something..)?

should i wear plastic gloves n stuff or what?..

also, whats 'grounding' myself?

 

To ground yourself, touch a metal portion of the chassis before attempting to install the RAM. Don't touch the metal pins which plug into the slot. Pretty simple. Simple guide.

 

Other methods/tips/warnings for preventing ESD are listed on this wikihow
http://www.wikihow.com/Avoid-Destroying-a-Computer-With-Electrostatic-Discharge

Make sure your laptop is off and that the battery is removed.

Here is a simple guide on how to install ram on a laptop.

Your ram is most likely located on the underside/bottom of the laptop, but on some laptops, they have a dimm/stick located under the keyboard.Look at the manual/service for information on how to access the memory for your Laptop.

 

All you really have to do is maintain contact with the metal cover of an I/O port while working.

You can go overboard and use a conductive tablecloth, jumper the tablecloth to a water pipe, use a grounding bracelet connected to the tablecloth, jumper the computer to the table cloth, strip down to avoid clothes generating static, etc. but that's not necessary! But do it if it makes you feel better.

 

I generally do all of sensitive computer upgrades inside my kitchen or bathroom. Before you hold a vital piece, touch the metal part of a water faucet. That discharges you, and your good to go. Your laptop chassis would not be grounded during repairs, since its not going to be plugged into the wall, and most laptops dont have an earth ground plug anyways.

 

I just sit down on a chair, put my laptop in my lap, ground myself and start working, and ground myself ever so often. Nothing happened so far.

 

first pet the cat then rub the new ram sticks on the cat.......
KIDDING
My work table has a metal powerbar across the back and I just ground myslef before starting.
I also remove the main battery for at least a minute or two before starting on a laptop or unplug the PSU before starting on a box.

 

i knew i wasn't doing enough

i just touch my desktop case every so often.