Using static wristband to replace battery?

[zippythecellist]

I'm replacing the battery in my mid 2010 17" macbook pro...but I'm not 100% sure how to use the static wristband that prevents me from frying my computer. Would it work if I put the alligator clip onto the ground plug or prongs of the extension cord that came with the computer? And I'm assuming just touching the top of my macbook before opening it up will get rid of any static electricity I have? I'm assuming it would be fine if I did that since it's metal, but I just want to be absolutely sure before my stupid *** breaks a computer.

 

[chscag]

You don't need a static wrist band to change out the battery. But if you feel better by using one, attach the alligator clip part to the chassis ground of the MacBook Pro or to the negative connector on the MBP that matches the one on the battery.

 

[zippythecellist]

So I couldn't just use the alligator clip on the metal plug of the extension cord? I've never opened up my laptop before, so I don't know what part the chassis ground or the negative connector is.

 

[pigoo3]

So I couldn't just use the alligator clip on the metal plug of the extension cord? I've never opened up my laptop before, so I don't know what part the chassis ground or the negative connector is.

It's best to ground yourself with something metal on the laptop itself. Like chscag recommended...the laptop chassis is the best place. The laptop is right in front of you...so a very convenient place to ground yourself.

- Nick

 

[zippythecellist]

But when I watch battery installation videos, (17" mid 2010 macbook pro) it looks like there isn't room on the inside to use the alligator clip. And I'm assuming I can't use the top part of the case since it has rubber around the screen...

 

[chscag]

OK.... your MacBook Pro has a three prong AC connector plug that attaches to the MagSafe Adapter. (I'm referring to the AC male plug that goes into the wall receptacle.) Unplug the machine from any AC source first and then attach your alligator clip from the wrist band to the center male connector on the plug. That's circuit ground.

 

[Dysfunction]

OK.... your MacBook Pro has a three prong AC connector plug that attaches to the MagSafe Adapter. (I'm referring to the AC male plug that goes into the wall receptacle.) Unplug the machine from any AC source first and then attach your alligator clip from the wrist band to the center male connector on the plug. That's circuit ground.

Nicely done.

 

[ankhseeker]

true, nicely done, but you are assuming that the OP is in the USA, but point noted. ;-)

 

[pigoo3]

true, nicely done, but you are assuming that the OP is in the USA, but point noted. ;-)

OP is in the USA.

- Nick

 

[Dysfunction]

OP is in the USA.

- Nick

else, remove the mains cable and attach to the metal stud on the transformer. That provides the earth connection.

 

[pigoo3]

else, remove the mains cable and attach to the metal stud on the transformer. That provides the earth connection.

I still think grounding the wrist strap on the laptop chassis is the easiest. The laptop is right in front of the person…so easy.

But if an internet search is done…folks will recommend/argue both ways:

- Ground via the unpainted computer chassis.
- Or ground via earth ground.

Then many other folks (myself included) use a 3rd option…which is just discharge static electricity by simply touching the power supply on a desktop computer (or chassis on a laptop) to discharge static electricity. Then don't shuffle feet or walk around while working on the computer.

- Nick

 

[zippythecellist]

OK.... your MacBook Pro has a three prong AC connector plug that attaches to the MagSafe Adapter. (I'm referring to the AC male plug that goes into the wall receptacle.) Unplug the machine from any AC source first and then attach your alligator clip from the wrist band to the center male connector on the plug. That's circuit ground.

While it's still plugged in? That doesn't sound very safe to me. There isn't any point in changing my battery if I fry myself while doing it. I guess I will just try to find a spot on the case...there is this flap on the outside right next to the headphone port, I'm guessing that will work.

And btw, a wooden table would be considered a static free workspace since wood is an insulator, right?

 

[chscag]

Did you read my instructions carefully? Below quoted again:

Unplug the machine from any AC source first and then attach your alligator clip from the wrist band to the center male connector on the plug. That's circuit ground.

You know.... it might be a good idea for you to take your machine to Apple and have them swap out the battery for you.

 

[RavingMac]

You could always stick the plug in your mouth. That would do two things:

1) Guarantee you weren't plugged into A/C power source
2) Provide direct ground from your body to your Mac

 

[pm-r]

Just thought I'd mention if it's not too late when one needs to be "grounded", is to never use just a plain alligator clip and a piece of wire and stick it in any ground contact receptacle, as it could be fatal!!

If doing so, use a properly made ground strap that has a large resistor built-in that will prevent you from getting severely zapped!!

And obviously, never work on the innards of a computer without disconnecting any AC power source.

 

[Slydude]

Maybe one of you guys should write up a blog post about these kinds of safety issues when doing repairs.

 

[zippythecellist]

I did read what you said, I was talking about the charger...not the computer obviously. Unless if I just had a brain fart or something, the way I was reading your post made it sound like you were telling me to keep the charger plugged in to the outlet and put the alligator clip on that metal circle. That just doesn't sound like a very good idea to me.

 

[chscag]

What does "Unplug the machine from any AC source" mean to you? What do you think the MagSafe Charger connects to? If you unplug from any AC source, how can the charger be connected and cause harm to you? Like I advised you previously, have Apple change out the battery for you and then you don't have to worry.....

We're through here.