Anyone know if this is available at local stores...

[Mrvile]

I know it's not REALLY required, but I want to take every precaution with my first build. Does anyone know where I could get an anti-static wrist strap at a local store, for example Best Buy or Radio Shack?

 

[Enectic]

I THINK I got mine from Radio Shack. Call and check. I think I've only used it a total of one times though.

 

[Mrvile]

Ok. I read in a DYI guide to building computers that they were available at Radio Shack, so that firms it up. Thanks.

 

[jpeyton]

I just touch a grounded metal object before grabbing anything sensitive. Worked for me for years.

 

[w00t]

Originally posted by: jpeyton
I just touch a grounded metal object before grabbing anything sensitive. Worked for me for years.

same

 

[MDE]

Originally posted by: w00t

Originally posted by: jpeyton
I just touch a grounded metal object before grabbing anything sensitive. Worked for me for years.

same

Yep, put the PSU in your case and plug it in (with the switch on the back OFF), then just touch any metal surface on the case or PSU and you're grounded.

 

[Drakkon]

i was cautious myself...bought mine at radio shack...its hidden away in one of the drawers though...might be on the rack

 

[bfonnes]

Originally posted by: jpeyton
I just touch a grounded metal object before grabbing anything sensitive. Worked for me for years.

same here... I live in Utah, which has a dry climate, so I don't have to worry about ESD too much. If you live in a dry climate, I'd say don't worry about it.

BFonnes

 

[Caveman]

Umm... ESD phenomenon happens WORST when it's dry. Potential for damage goes down exponentially with an increase in RH from 30 to 70%.

Dry is NOT what you want for protection against ESD!

 

[swatoke]

Yep got mine at Radio Shack too. You should be ok just to touch the case before you pick up a device, but it can't hurt to be extra cautious. I have heard that some shops that work on computers use a grounding pad to place the computer on.

 

[VirtualLarry]

Yeah, Microcenter and I think CompUSA stock them too. I recommend picking up an anti-static mat too, if you do a lot of work on computers. The good part about that is too, when you have the PC open and possibly on its side operating on things, the mat helps prevent the surface from being scratched up by the computer's case and metal parts sticking out. It's a good idea if you ever do any on-location work for clients.

Also, if you use the "touch grounding" method, unplug the PSU, the issue is relative potential voltage, not earth ground. Leaving it plugged in is risky and asking for trouble in certain circumstances. Wise techs unplug.
(Yes, I found out the hard way.)

 

[Jeff7]

Originally posted by: VirtualLarry
Yeah, Microcenter and I think CompUSA stock them too. I recommend picking up an anti-static mat too, if you do a lot of work on computers. The good part about that is too, when you have the PC open and possibly on its side operating on things, the mat helps prevent the surface from being scratched up by the computer's case and metal parts sticking out. It's a good idea if you ever do any on-location work for clients.

Also, if you use the "touch grounding" method, unplug the PSU, the issue is relative potential voltage, not earth ground. Leaving it plugged in is risky and asking for trouble in certain circumstances. Wise techs unplug.
(Yes, I found out the hard way.)

Wise techs should know when a PSU is really off, and when it's just in the soft off state, if that's what you mean.


But I'll agree here - as long as there's no difference in voltage between you and the PC, it's fine. If you and the PC have a potential of 15,000 volts, but it's not going anywhere, you've got no worries.
A thought though - what would happen though if you were touching the motherboard, and then you suddenly came in contact with earth ground? I'd think that you'd then serve to conduct that 15,000 volts, or whatever it may be, and it might flow through the motherboard.
A really good way might be to get a small banana plug, and stick it right into the ground hole on an outlet, and attach the other end to the case. The case gets an earth ground, and the power supply gets no power.

 

[SadisticOne]

My Staples had them too.