Do i really need an anti static work mat.
Do i need an antistatic mat to build a pc.
Just plug the pc in an outlet and connect the wrist strap to the pc case.
Just take the other necessary precautions.
It is best to have it plugged up and unplug the power connector off the motherboard.
You do not need an anti static mat or wrist strap.
Make sure you have one hand or your forearm touching some metal part of the case while working.
Instead of using a wrist strap connect the chassis to earth ground roll up your sleeves to maintain contact with the chassis exposed metal.
If i handle a bare mainboard i use an esd mat too but when i just add components into an existing pc there is no point in using a mat.
Electrical outlets are normally the best ground for a mat in any building.
Since carbon is conductive if the mat is laid on top of conducting tables and floors static will travel through the mat into the table and dissipate at the floor into the ground.
The wrist strap is not necessary as long as you and the computer are grounded to a common point.
However typically you will want to connect an anti static mat for pc building to an electrical outlet.
I am a field tech and have never carried around a mat or strap.