ESD Safety in PC Repair: Preventing Static Damage What is the most reliable routine practice to avoid electrostatic discharge (ESD) damage when working inside a PC?

Introduction / Context:
Electrostatic discharge can silently destroy or weaken sensitive ICs (CPUs, RAM, chipsets, SSD controllers). Effective ESD control is essential during assembly and service. This question identifies the most reliable practice for consistently preventing ESD damage in the field or workshop.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Technician is opening a PC case and handling components.
• ESD-safe practices and equipment are available.
• Grounding points are properly connected to protective earth.

Concept / Approach:

An ESD wrist strap connected to a known good ground maintains the technician and the system at the same potential, preventing a sudden discharge. While touching ground occasionally helps, it is not continuous or reliable. Footwear or mats may contribute but are not sufficient alone. Denying the risk is dangerous: ESD failures may be latent and appear later as intermittent faults.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:

Use an ESD tester to confirm strap integrity. Monitor field failures: shops enforcing strict ESD procedures report fewer DOA and intermittent returns.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

Rubber mats and leather soles do not guarantee equipotential with the PC. Touching ground periodically is inconsistent. Saying ESD does not hurt PCs is false; ESD is a well-documented failure mode.

Common Pitfalls:

Clipping the strap to painted or insulated surfaces, or forgetting to ground the mat and strap together. Always verify a bare-metal, grounded connection.

Final Answer:

wear an ESD wrist strap