4.4 – Safety Procedures - Managing Electrostatic Discharge

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Questions and Answers

Why is maintaining a humidity level over 60% beneficial in preventing electrostatic discharge (ESD), even though it is often impractical?

It completely eliminates the possibility of ESD, providing a safe environment for working with electronics.
It significantly reduces the instances of ESD, although it doesn't eliminate them entirely. (correct)
It creates a more comfortable working environment, reducing stress that can lead to ESD.
It enhances the conductivity of electronic components, making them less susceptible to damage from ESD.

What is the primary purpose of touching exposed metal on a device before working on it, often referred to as 'self-grounding'?

To create a direct electrical ground connection to the building's grounding system.
To discharge any built-up static electricity from the device itself.
To test whether the device is properly grounded before beginning work.
To equalize the electrical potential between the technician and the device, preventing ESD. (correct)

Why is it crucial to disconnect a device from the power system before performing any internal work on it?

To comply with safety regulations, as working on a live device is illegal.
To prevent electrical shock and avoid potential damage from electrostatic discharge. (correct)
To ensure the device is completely discharged of any residual electricity.
To avoid interfering with the building's electrical grounding system.

What is the key reason for using an anti-static strap when working with electronic components?

To provide a constant ground connection between the technician and the device, preventing static buildup. (B) Signup and view all the answers

In what way does an anti-static pad help prevent electrostatic discharge (ESD) when working on electronic components?

It ensures that all items on the pad, including the technician, components, and tools, are connected to a common point, equalizing their electrical potential. (A) Signup and view all the answers

What advantage does using an anti-static mat offer compared to occasionally touching a metal part of the device you are working on?

It offers continuous protection against ESD, especially when standing or moving around. (D) Signup and view all the answers

Why is storing electronic components in an anti-static bag important during transportation?

To protect the components from electrostatic discharge (ESD) that can occur due to friction and movement. (D) Signup and view all the answers

When handling electronic components, what is the recommended practice to avoid damage from electrostatic discharge (ESD)?

Hold them around the edges and avoid touching the components themselves. (D) Signup and view all the answers

What is the recommended temperature range for storing computers and other electronic devices?

Between 50 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit (10 to 27 degrees Celsius). (D) Signup and view all the answers

Why are silica gel packs recommended when shipping or storing electronic components?

To act as a desiccant and remove moisture from the air, protecting against humidity damage. (A) Signup and view all the answers

Besides using an anti-static bag, what additional material can be used to protect electronic components during storage if the original box is unavailable?

Bubble wrap to provide physical cushioning. (D) Signup and view all the answers

What is a key difference between 'self-grounding' by touching exposed metal on a device and connecting oneself to the building's electrical grounding system?

Self-grounding equalizes electrical potential with the device, while building grounding poses a safety risk and doesn't prevent ESD. (B) Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to both unplug a device and use an anti-static strap when working on electronic components?

Unplugging isolates the device from power surges, and the anti-static strap ensures continuous grounding to prevent ESD. (B) Signup and view all the answers

You are preparing to ship a sensitive electronic component. Which combination of packaging materials would provide the best protection against both physical damage and electrostatic discharge?

Anti-static bag inside a bubble wrap-lined box. (B) Signup and view all the answers

A technician is working on a computer in a dry environment (low humidity). Which of the following actions would be MOST effective in preventing electrostatic discharge (ESD)?

Consistently touching the metal chassis of the computer while working and wearing an anti-static wrist strap connected to the chassis. (B) Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Static Electricity

Electricity that remains in one place until discharged.

Electrostatic Discharge (ESD)

The sudden flow of electricity between objects of different electrical potentials.