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General discussion

wrist strap info?

Aug 12, 2004 2:54PM PDT

I have decided it's time to invest in an anti-static wrist strap, as I have probably fried more than one computer by not having one. I assumed they were expensive but i see them with little alligator clips
for $5 at microcenter. i thought they cost more than that. is this a mickey mouse version or do they work? any advice on which one to buy? thanks - fj

Discussion is locked

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Re: wrist strap info?
Aug 12, 2004 5:58PM PDT

The standard wrist strap has the little alligator clip on it yes. Basically anything that keeps you in contact with the system or a ground connection will work. Even physically grabbing the case works. Also avoid working in area with carpet and don't ever work with socks on. HA!

Hope this helps...

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Re: wrist strap info?
Aug 12, 2004 9:16PM PDT

This all any of the ESD kits maybe made of, as most are now disposable. Others become more reusable or frequent techie enviroment usage, thus it maybe more durable. All you need is to discharge or route yourself to ground path, thus only a wriststrap and simple alligator clip is all that's required. The only other possible needs is a work mat which itself can be grounded, plus a floor mat for further protection.

good luck -----Willy Happy

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Note that there is a difference between a wrist strap and
Aug 12, 2004 11:18PM PDT

touching the chassis. The wrist strap has a multimegohm resistance in series and thus the current flow from any electrostatic discharge is extremely small and not enough current to damage components.

A moot point most times when touching the chassis. The only difference would be without the strap you might get a zap that you can feel whereas with a wrist strap you won't.

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Re: wrist strap info?
Aug 13, 2004 12:30AM PDT

It's a nice tool but if your going to rely on one of those things you might want to check it.

I had one that measured a dead open, it felt nice to wear it but I doubt it was of much value.

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What did you meaure with???
Aug 13, 2004 12:46AM PDT

It should be multimegohms. Some limited range ohmeter scales will show it as infinite.

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Re: What did you meaure with???
Aug 13, 2004 4:51AM PDT

It was a dvm made by FLUKE, kind of expensive back in those days.

Today you can get a Radio Shack model for 15 bucks.

Before you think the dvm had a problem I had two other wrist straps which measured ok.

Bottom line...don't assume that wrist bracelet is of any value,,,,,check it.

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Re: wrist strap info?
Sep 7, 2004 10:08AM PDT

Some times the best protection is not always the most expensive option. I work as an aircraft technician and have to handle aircraft electronics the size of a shoebox sometimes costing $800 000 and more ! And guess what kind of anti static protection we are all trained and required to use ? Yup...the $5 wrist strap...

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Re: wrist strap info?
Sep 8, 2004 4:51AM PDT

Ive seen a several people who work on computers professionally (various puter repair shops}, and they cant seem to be bothered with this stuff. Sad