Grounding Practices
Proper grounding is necessary for these characteristics of the system operation: optimum performance, reliability and safety. Improper grounding will result in the formation of uncontrolled electrical circuit paths and in unreliable electrical circuit paths. The uncontrolled electrical circuit paths can cause electrical activity that may be unsafe. The uncontrolled electrical circuit paths can degrade the electronics and the communications. Ensure that all grounds are secure and that all grounds are free of corrosion.
Electronic equipment is sensitive to static. Some components are more sensitive than other components. The electronic equipment has components that are sensitive to electrostatic discharge. In order to protect these components from static damage, you must take special precautions.
Use the following precautions to help reduce static electricity when you work with the electronic equipment.
- Synthetic fibers tend to build up static electricity. Avoid wearing synthetic clothing. Wear cotton or cotton blended materials as much as possible because these materials do not store electric charges as much as synthetic fibers.
- Before you work on the electronic equipment, discharge the static electricity from your person. Touch a grounded metal object or hold onto a grounded metal object in order to discharge static electricity.
- Keep synthetic materials away from the electronic equipment and keep synthetic materials away from the work area. The following items are examples of products that need to be avoided: plastic cups, styrofoam cups, cup holder, cellophane wrappers, books with vinyl, folders with vinyl, plastic bottles and plastic ashtrays.
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Electrostatic discharge can damage integrated circuits or semiconductors if you touch circuit board connector pins. When not in use, keep the equipment in its static-shield bag. Follow these guidelines when you handle any electronic equipment: Touch a grounded object to discharge static potential. Wear an approved Conductive Wrist Strap that is properly grounded in order to avoid electrostatic discharge damage. Do not touch the bus connector or connector pins. Do not touch circuit components inside the equipment. If available, use a static-safe work station. |