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6
Electrostatic Discharge
6.1
Preventing Electrostatic Discharge
To prevent damage to the system, be aware of the precautions you need to follow
when setting up the system or handling parts. A discharge of static electricity from
a finger or other conductor may damage system boards or other static-sensitive
devices. This type of damage may reduce the life expectancy of the device.
To prevent electrostatic damage:
Avoid hand contact by transporting and storing products in static-safe
containers.
Keep electrostatic-sensitive parts in their containers before they arrive at
static-free workstations.
Place parts on a grounded surface before taking them out from their packages.
Avoid touching pins, leads, or circuitry.
Always be properly grounded when touching a static-sensitive component or
assembly.
6.2
Grounding Methods to Prevent Electrostatic
Discharge
Several methods are used for grounding. Use one or more of the following
methods when handling or installing electrostatic-sensitive parts:
Use a wrist strap connected by a ground cord to a grounded workstation or
computer chassis. Wrist straps are flexible straps with a minimum of 1 megohm
±10 percent resistance in the ground cords. To provide proper ground, wear
the strap snug against the skin.
Use heel straps, toe straps, or boot straps at standing workstations. Wear the
straps on both feet when standing on conductive floors or dissipating floor
mats.
Use conductive field service tools.
Use a portable field service kit with a folding static-dissipating work mat.
If you do not have any of the suggested equipment for proper grounding, have an
authorized reseller install the part.