Using Anti-static wrist band

[DarkKnight]

I just got an Anti-static wrist band and I was wondering where I should attach the clip

 

[Cogman]

If I remember correctly you should clip it onto the case you are using for the system.

 

[hjo3]

Ideally, you should connect it to a grounded conductor. Hence the term "grounding strap." If you're not afraid to, you could cut open an old power cable (preferably before you plug it in) and splice the lead from your wrist band into the green wire, then plug it into the wall.

 

[KenGr]

Deleted

 

[KenGr]

In general, all you need to do is keep yourself at the same potential as the computer chassis so that there will be no surge of static through a device. That is why you will see the advice to touch the frame of the computer before you handle the electronic components to discharge any static. The strap keeps you in constant contact if you clip it to the computer frame. If you are concerned about large potential buildups, you might want to keep the whole system grounded to a true ground but that generally isn't necessary.

To do this cheaply, just get an old grounded (three prong) power cord. Cut the cord open and cut out and insulate the power leads, leaving only the ground wire. Then (assuming you have a modern grounded electrical system) you can just plug in the power supply using this modified cord and have the system grounded. (You still need the ground strap, of course.)

 

[MedicBob]

UImmm, I probably wouldn't plug anything into an electrical outlet attached to me. The idea is to ground yourself to the item you are working on and also to ground(Earth). I know it was posted to cut off the white and black wires, but I still wouldn't do it.


I personally haven't had any problems by not using one, but I don't handle very static sensitive equipment very often. I usually just ground myself to the case.

 

[altonb1]

Originally posted by: KenGr
In general, all you need to do is keep yourself at the same potential as the computer chassis so that there will be no surge of static through a device. That is why you will see the advice to touch the frame of the computer before you handle the electronic components to discharge any static. The strap keeps you in constant contact if you clip it to the computer frame.

<snip>

This is true, but ONLY if the case itself if still grounded. Your best bet, if you choose to follow this path, is to make sure you leave the power cable plugged in to both the PSU AND the wall.