ESD precaution question.

[gamerguy2]

I was wondering if attaching the antistatic wristrap to a power supply would have any benefits when taking precautions for a homebuilt/repaired pc?

I have a spare generic 350 watt PSU. I thought that it might make for a good ground. The alligator clip often slips off the case while working.

So keeping this old PSU on the floor nearby with the clip attached to it while working on a pc sounded like an interesting option. Anyone see any benefits or problems associated with using a separate PSU to ground an antistatic strap or mat?

 

[Uncle Bob]

If it was the type of PSU that has an on/off switch so you can isolate it from AC power while working and you can measure decent continuity between the ground pin and the PSU case (obviously painted cases wouldn't be very useful) then that seems a reasonable setup to me.

I personally use an ESD ground plug adaptor - something similar to this

http://www.desco.com/DescoCatalog/W...e/GroundingHardware/BananaPlugAdapters/09838/

 

[sm625]

You only need to ground yourself periodically, to release any built up esd. Anytime you touch yourself or move, especially on carpet, that is when you discharge yourself simply by touching a grounded steel computer case. There is no need for a wriststrap unless you got a General Dynamics or a Raytheon staring over your shoulder.

 

[mcsman]

Just having the spare power supply on the floor nearby does not make it a ground source. If it is plugged in, then maybe. But then, there are better grounds.

 

[paul878]

You only need to ground yourself periodically, to release any built up esd. Anytime you touch yourself or move, especially on carpet, that is when you discharge yourself simply by touching a grounded steel computer case. There is no need for a wriststrap unless you got a General Dynamics or a Raytheon staring over your shoulder.

He going to have to move as he work on his computer!

 

[gamerguy2]

So using an unplugged spare power supply isnt a great idea. Its on par with using a case (unpainted). The desco option looks pretty good.

Thanks.

 

[VirtualLarry]

I wouldn't plug anything into a wall socket, if you are working on the PC. The only important thing, is that you are at the same potential voltage as what you are working on, so that there are no discharges. You and the things you are working on, do NOT have to be at earth ground.