C H A P T E R 3 - Handling Boards and Assemblies

C H A P T E R 3

Handling Boards and Assemblies

This chapter gives instructions on how to safely handle the CompactPCI boards and assemblies. This chapter is divided into the following sections:

Section 3.1, Handling Boards

Section 3.2, Handling Assemblies

Consult the Netra CT Server Safety and Compliance Manual for safety information prior to performing the procedures in this chapter.

3.1 Handling Boards

Each Netra CT server in a chassis has a CompactPCI bus. All of the boards in a server--the CPU board, alarm card, and I/O boards--are CompactPCI boards.

Caution - The system is sensitive to static electricity. To prevent damage, always connect an antistatic wrist strap between you and the system.

Caution - Do not flex the CompactPCI boards; the surface-mounted components can break.

To minimize the amount of flexing, observe the following precautions:

When removing a board from an electrostatic discharge bag, keep it vertical until you lay it on the electrostatic discharge mat.

Do not place a board on a hard surface. Use a cushioned antistatic mat. The connectors and components have very thin pins that bend easily.

Be careful of small parts located on the component side of a board.

Do not use an oscilloscope probe on the components. The soldered pins are easily damaged or shorted by the probe point.

Transport a board in an antistatic bag.

Caution - The heat sinks on a board can be damaged by incorrect handling. Do not touch the heat sinks while installing or removing a board. Hold a board only by the edges. If a heat sink is loose or broken, obtain a replacement board.

Caution - The heat sinks on a board can be damaged by improper packaging. When storing or shipping a board, ensure that the heat sinks have sufficient protection.

Caution - The system controller board and its modules have surface-mount components that can be broken by flexing the board.

3.2 Handling Assemblies

Assemblies have their own set of handling requirements, similar to the requirements for CompactPCI boards.

Caution - The system is sensitive to static electricity. To prevent damage to the board, always connect an antistatic wrist strap between you and the system.