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Electrostatic DischargeElectrostatic Discharge
Electro-
Static
Discharge
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Electrostatic DischargeElectrostatic Discharge
You may notice it as a spark:
 from your finger to the door frame when you get out of
the car
 from your finger to any earthed metalwork - e.g.
copier
 when stroking a cat
Electro-
Static
Discharge

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Electrostatic DischargeElectrostatic Discharge
Causes:
 Charge builds up when certain
materials rub together
 e.g. between your body and your clothes, and
between one item and another
 man-made fibres (e.g. Nylon) are worse than cotton
 Damp air is slightly conductive, so the
charge leaks away
 Dry air is an insulator, so the charge
builds up

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Electrostatic DischargeElectrostatic Discharge
 Electronic components have tiny
elements, so they are VERY easily
damaged by electrical discharges.
 Damage can occur even when there
isn’t a spark.

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Electrostatic DischargeElectrostatic Discharge
 NEVER touch electronic components or
printed circuit boards.
 NEVER open boxes or bags which have
the ESD warning sign.
 Anyone who needs to touch or work
with electronic components MUST use
an approved safety wristband
and
an earthed work-mat.

6. 5
Electrostatic DischargeElectrostatic Discharge
 NEVER touch electronic components or
printed circuit boards.
 NEVER open boxes or bags which have
the ESD warning sign.
 Anyone who needs to touch or work
with electronic components MUST use
an approved safety wristband
and
an earthed work-mat.