I agree with Dean that unless you are very experienced with such things, you should never open the case with the power on. In addition, I would recommend using a wrist strap with an "alligator" clip, which you can attach to a metal part of the case.I mention "metal" since many cases contain plastic components ( I'm not familiar with E Machines) and clipping the strap to plastic would be akin to clipping it to your toe.  You can pick up one at any Office Max, Staples, Office Depot, etc., in their computer accessories section. The strap also gives you the benefit of the use of both hands to assist your installation.
Good Luck

Maurice J. Reid   
----- Original Message ----- 
From: "Dean Kukral"
" I disagree that to ground through the case (either by touching or by using a 
wrist strap) that you should have the power cord plugged in.

Just the opposite.  Unless  you know what you are doing, you should never 
have the power cord plugged in when you are working inside an electrical 
device!!!

The purpose of touching the case and/or using a wrist strap is to drain 
static electricity off of yourself so as not to damage any integrated 
circuits.  There is absolutely no need to have the case plugged in to serve 
as a ground.  Static electricity (free electrons) will tend to spread 
themselves out on the case and drain themselves off quickly at the corners 
and other sharp points.

Dean Kukral"

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