Kirk I use a low cost earth mat and wrist strap. In order to connect them together (and to earth) I have an aluminium bar alongside the work bench, this in turn connects via a length of "hook up" wire and crocodile clip to the station ground. At the start of each session I check there is continuity between the mains earth and the bar using a multimeter.
Obviously, some crocodile clips are better than others... 4mm plugs are fitted to the mat and strap, so if yours have these you may consider making a small box with matching sockets and then a flying earth lead to a station ground. You didn't mention an earth mat, these are very handy but I would avoid the field service types with the component and lead "pockets" as the flat rubber bench mats are generally nicer to use on a bench. Some mats can be very expensive, I use the Maplin (UK electronic supplier) part number YJ90X mat, however Maplin seem to have "discontinued" all their mats and only stock wrist straps! Maybe standards are slipping, or folks just don't understand the need for mats as well as straps. 73 Dave, G4AON K1 #1154 K2 #1892 _______________________________________________ Elecraft mailing list Post to: [email protected] You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
