● Use a wired ESD wrist strap that is properly grounded. Wireless anti-static straps do not provide adequate protection.
Touching the chassis before handling parts does not ensure adequate ESD protection on parts with increased sensitivity to
ESD damage.
●
Handle all static-sensitive components in a static-safe area. If possible, use anti-static floor pads and workbench pads.
● When unpacking a static-sensitive component from its shipping carton, do not remove the component from the anti-static
packing material until you are ready to install the component. Before unwrapping the anti-static packaging, use the anti-
static wrist strap to discharge the static electricity from your body.
● Before transporting a static-sensitive component, place it in an anti-static container or packaging.
ESD Field Service kit
The unmonitored Field Service kit is the most commonly used service kit. Each Field Service kit includes three main components:
anti-static mat, wrist strap, and bonding wire.
CAUTION: It is critical to keep ESD-sensitive devices away from internal parts that are insulators and often
highly charged, such as plastic heat sink casings.
Working Environment
Before deploying the ESD Field Service kit, assess the situation at the customer location. For example, deploying the kit for a
server environment is different than for a desktop or laptop environment. Servers are typically installed in a rack within a data
center; desktops or laptops are typically placed on office desks or cubicles. Always look for a large open flat work area that is
free of clutter and large enough to deploy the ESD kit with additional space to accommodate the type of computer that is being
repaired. The workspace should also be free of insulators that can cause an ESD event. On the work area, insulators such as
Styrofoam and other plastics should always be moved at least 12 inches or 30 centimeters away from sensitive parts before
physically handling any hardware components.
ESD Packaging
All ESD-sensitive devices must be shipped and received in static-safe packaging. Metal, static-shielded bags are preferred.
However, you should always return the damaged part using the same ESD bag and packaging that the new part arrived in. The
ESD bag should be folded over and taped shut and all the same foam packing material should be used in the original box that the
new part arrived in. ESD-sensitive devices should be removed from packaging only at an ESD-protected work surface, and parts
should never be placed on top of the ESD bag because only the inside of the bag is shielded. Always place parts in your hand, on
the ESD mat, in the computer, or inside an anti-static bag.
Components of an ESD Field Service kit
The components of an ESD Field Service kit are:
● Anti-Static Mat – The anti-static mat is dissipative and parts can be placed on it during service procedures. When using an
anti-static mat, your wrist strap should be snug and the bonding wire should be connected to the anti-static mat and to any
bare metal on the computer being worked on. Once deployed properly, service parts can be removed from the ESD bag and
placed directly on the anti-static mat. ESD-sensitive items are safe in your hand, on the anti-static mat, in the computer, or
inside an ESD bag.
● Wrist Strap and Bonding Wire – The wrist strap and bonding wire can be either directly connected between your wrist
and bare metal on the hardware if the ESD mat is not required, or connected to the anti-static mat to protect hardware that
is temporarily placed on the mat. The physical connection of the wrist strap and bonding wire between your skin, the ESD
mat, and the hardware is known as bonding. Use only Field Service kits with a wrist strap, anti-static mat, and bonding wire.
Never use wireless wrist straps. Always be aware that the internal wires of a wrist strap are prone to damage from normal
wear and tear, and must be checked regularly with a wrist strap tester in order to avoid accidental ESD hardware damage. It
is recommended to test the wrist strap and bonding wire at least once per week.
● ESD Wrist Strap Tester – The wires inside an ESD strap are prone to damage over time. When using an unmonitored kit,
it is a best practice to regularly test the strap prior to each service call, and at a minimum, test once per week. A wrist strap
tester is the best method for doing this test. If you do not have your own wrist strap tester, check with your regional office
to find out if they have one. To perform the test, plug the bonding-wire of the wrist-strap into the tester while it is strapped
to your wrist and push the button to test. A green LED is lit if the test is successful; a red LED is lit and an alarm sounds if
the test fails.
28
Working inside your computer
To Next Page
Loading...
