On the theory that an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure, I
try to minimize the static generation in the first place. Long before I
had an anti-static mat I practiced static minimization.
For example:
1) Don't wear insulated sole shoes when working on your equipment. And
avoid nylon, wool, or other material in your clothing that might
encourage static generation if it is accidentally rubbed (i.e., you
shift your weight while seated).
2) If your work area floor is carpeted, spray Downy or some other fabric
softener, diluted, using a spray bottle (like an old Windex sprayer) and
lightly spray the area under your workbench and where your chair will
be. Fabric softener is conductive and will help bleed away carpet
static under reasonable conditions for a few hours.
3) Sit quietly in your chair while working, with your feet on the floor
(no rubber soles). Don't shuffle your feet - especially if a carpeted
area - and don't wiggle in your chair.
4) I have no pets, but many people have static-generators (aka cats)
that wander freely through their work area. Induce the cat to not be
anywhere near you when you are working, and in such a way that does not
require you to move in your chair to keep it away from you.
5) Touch the frame of the equipment, then touch the ground area of the
PC board, then assemble. This will equalize any charge differential
between them.
6) If you are being handed a PC board, or handing it to someone, *first*
touch their hand, *then* place the PC board in their hand. This will
equalize the charge differential between your bodies.
7) Don't even think about using a plastic-based table as your K3
assembly area! I have some excellent 4' and 6' folding tables from
Costco, but I don't use them for work areas. If I do have to use one
for parts sorting or some similar activity, I use the static mat even if
there is high relative humidity in the workspace!
8) Dry air is your enemy. Cold weather outside and forced-air heat
inside are a recipe for static. If you don't have a humidifier, all is
not lost, but you must be especially aware of static avoidance!
Enjoy!
73,
Lyle KK7P
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