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components commonly are called Electrostatically Sensitive (ES) Devices. Examples of typical
ES devices are integrated circuits, some field-effect transistorsand semiconductor "chip"
components. The following techniques should be used to help reduce the incidence of
component damage caused by electrostatic 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 remove electrostatic charge 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 aluminum
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 antistatic solder removal device. Some solder
removal devices not classified as "antistatic (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, aluminum 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 harmless motion such as the brushing
together of your clothes fabric or the lifting of your foot from a
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