ESD safety gear: What component inside an anti-static wrist strap protects the user and the device? An ESD wrist strap connects a technician to ground. What small component is placed in series so you do not become the least-resistance path to ground while still bleeding off static safely?

Introduction / Context:
Wrist straps protect sensitive electronics by slowly discharging static from the body to ground. Safety and device protection require controlling that discharge current rather than shorting the body directly.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Standard ESD wrist straps include a coiled cord and a snap to a grounded mat or point.
• The strap must bleed charge safely and protect the wearer if accidental contact with live voltage occurs.
• We need the in-line element that limits current.

Concept / Approach:

A high-value series resistor (commonly around 1 megaohm) is embedded in the wrist strap lead. It limits fault current while allowing static charges to equalize gradually, preventing sudden discharges that can damage components.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:

Commercial straps specify a built-in 1 MΩ resistor; continuity testers for ESD confirm both lead continuity and resistor value range.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• Capacitor: would store charge and can create transients; not used in series for this purpose.
• Diode: enforces polarity; not a current-limiting bleed element here.
• Transistor: active device; unnecessary and unsafe for simple grounding.
• None of the above: incorrect because a resistor is standard.

Common Pitfalls:

Bypassing the resistor (homemade straps), connecting to floating metal not tied to ground, or neglecting periodic testing. These negate ESD protection and can be hazardous.

Final Answer:

Resistor