Figure 12. Anti-Static Mat
The wrist strap and bonding wire can be either directly connected between your wrist and bare metal on the hardware if the ESD mat is
not required, or connected to the anti-static mat to protect hardware that is temporarily placed on the mat. The physical connection of the
wrist strap and bonding wire between your skin, the ESD mat, and the hardware is known as bonding. Use only Field Service kits with a
wrist strap, mat, and bonding wire. Never use wireless wrist straps.
Always be aware that the internal wires of a wrist strap are prone to damage from normal wear and tear, and must be checked regularly
with a wrist strap tester in order to avoid accidental ESD hardware damage. It is recommended to test the wrist strap and bonding wire a
minimum of once per week.
Table 54. Wrist Straps
Wrist Strap and Bonding Wire
Wireless ESD Strap (Unacceptable)
ESD Wrist Strap Tester
The wires inside of an ESD strap are prone to damage over time. When using an unmonitored kit, it is best practice to regularly test the
strap prior to each service call, and at a minimum, test once per week. A wrist strap tester is the best method for doing this test. If you do
not have your own wrist strap tester, check with your regional office to find out if they have one. To perform the test, plug the wrist-strap’s
bonding-wire into the tester while it is strapped to your wrist and push the button to test. A green LED is lit if the test is successful; a red
LED is lit and an alarm sounds if the test fails.
Removing and installing components
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