When assembling a PC, which situation requires a student to be cautious about ESD?

When installing RAM, it is crucial to be cautious about electrostatic discharge (ESD) because RAM modules are sensitive electronic components that can easily be damaged by static electricity. Human bodies can generate significant static charges, especially in environments with low humidity or when wearing certain types of clothing.

During the installation process, if a student were to neglect proper ESD precautions, such as grounding themselves or using an ESD wrist strap, the static charge could discharge into the RAM module upon contact, potentially leading to malfunction or failure of the component. This makes it essential for individuals handling RAM to take protective measures to prevent ESD damage.

In contrast, while situations like installing a cooling system or adding storage drives also involve handling components, the sensitivity of RAM to static electricity and the possible irreversible damage makes it more critical to exercise caution specifically during RAM installation. Connecting the monitor does not involve sensitive internal components and is generally not a concern for ESD in the same way as RAM installation.