Some semiconductor (solid state) devices can be damaged easily by static electricity. Such components commonly are called Electrostatically Sensitive (ES) Devices.

Examples of typical ES devices are integrated circuits and some field-effect transistorsand semiconductor "chip" components. The following techniques should be

used to help reduce the incidence of component damage caused by electro static discharge (ESD).

1. Immediately before handling any semiconductor component or semiconductor-equipped assembly, drain off any ESD on your body by touching a known earth

ground. Alternatively, obtain and wear a commercially available discharging ESD wrist strap, whichshould be removed for potential shock reasons prior to

applying power to the unit under test.

2. After removing an electrical assembly equipped with ES devices, place the assembly on a conductive surface such as alminum foil, to prevent electrostatic

charge buildup or exposure of the assembly.

3. Use only a grounded-tip soldering iron to solder or unsolder ES devices.

4. Use only an anti-static solder removal device. Some solder removal devices not classified as "anti-static (ESD protected)" can generate electrical charge

sufficient to damage ES devices.

5. Do not use freon-propelled chemicals. These can generate electrical charges sufficient to damage ES devices.

6. Do not remove a replacement ES device from its protective package until immediately before you are ready to install it. (Most replacement ES devices are

packaged with leads electrically shorted together by conductive foam, alminum foil or comparableconductive material).

7. Immediately before removing the protective material from the leads of a replacement ES device, touch the protective material to the chassis or circuit assembly

into which the device will be installed.

Caution

Be sure no power is applied to the chassis or circuit, and observe all other safety precautions.

8. Minimize bodily motions when handling unpackaged replacement ES devices. (Otherwise hamless motion such as the brushing together of your clothes fabric

or the lifting of your foot from a carpeted floor can generate static electricity (ESD) sufficient todamage an ES device).

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