How best to make sure I am static free when operating on my mini?

[Tiangou]

Jerry® wrote:
so, using my gaming mat is out of the question????

There are a lot of different materials that can go into a mouse pad. For example, it might have a neoprene core and rubberized base (antistatic) but a nylon surface (prone to static.)

Honestly, this is a "don't overthink it, don't over-engineer it" thing.

A desk or dining table is usually a pretty decent work-surface for taking apart a small computer.

When you're ready, just take your time and go one step at a time and if something seems a little stuck, don't fret. Sit back and take a moment, review the take-apart guide and try again.

Some things need a little "wiggling" to get them out and if you're pulling the logic board to get better access to the drive, you will need to identify the little holes for the logic board tool. It pops right out with a little leverage at those holes.

...Keep close track of which screw went where. For my 1st time in a new type of computer I'll sometimes tape a piece of paper to the table, drop each screw on the paper and make a note under it to indicate where the screw came from.

...You have reviewed the replacement guide, right??
https://www.ifixit.com/Guide/Mac+mini+La...ment/11716

[gadje]

So you still didn't do it?

[Forrest]

My ESD training at work drummed in the use of ESD wrist straps. In practice, replacing a hard drive is low risk.

Take your shoes off and discharge yourself by touching ground before opening the computer and replacing your hard drive and don’t touch the pins on your hard drive connector and you should be fine.

[chopper]

Don't get married.

[gadje]

“Never upgrade.” - chopper

[Robert M]

Jerry,

Here is another video for replacing the internal drive of a 2012 mini:



I like OWC's method. Less work and easier that iFixit's video. I found a similar difference when installing a new SSD into an Early 2013 Macbook Pro Retina 15". iFixit was more involved and had unnecessary steps. OWC's method worked perfectly.

But, again, just disconnect the original SSD and close the machine. Save yourself some trouble and make it easier to continue using the 1TB SSD in the future.

FWIW, I've been opening/closing Macs for decades to replace drives, install/remove cards, etc. Took basic anti-static steps as suggested in this thread. Even used an anti-static strap now and again when I had one handy. Never an issue.

I usually work on a wood table. I use an iFixit magnetic mat for screws. I put them on the mat in a manner that makes them easy to restore in reverse order.

Robert