ESD Defined:
The defination of ESD is an electrostatic discharge that is a sudden, unexpected flow of electrical currents between two points.
ESD can cause:
- a short on the circuit board or inside delicate components mounted on the circuit board
- damage to electrical components
- damage to you and other members of your team.
- a catastrophic problem on a project, causing you to replace expensive components or even scrap the job and start all over.
In addition to the monetary expense that can occur, there is also a measure of stress and even personal ramifications when ESD halts a project.
It is important to consider a two pronged approach when developing an ESD control plan:
1) Prevention
You need to use ESD-safe products in your work area to prevent and reduce ESD. This includes matting, tools, gloves, jackets, and any other items you might use on a regular basis.
2) Monitoring.
Proper monitoring is neccessary to make sure your work area remains ESD-safe.
We have collected this set of links to videos, blog articles, and more to help you learn more about ESD preventon and monitoring. Some of these links will take you away from GoKimco.com to external sites.
GoKimco ESD blog posts:
http://gokimco.com/blog/tag/esd/
Videos:
Dell Computers ESD-Safe overview
Automated Learning's Introduction to ESD-Safety Program Planning
Desco ESD Basics 1
Desco ESD Basics 2
Desco ESD Basics 3
Other sites:
Electrostatic Discharge Association
If you still have specific questions related to ESD or static control concerns, call us or email us! We can also give you guidence when developing a static control plan for your company. We are here to help.