Getting zapped by static electricity is more than just a nuisance.
We’ve all touched a metal door handle or other metallic objects and felt the tingle of static electricity. But while it may be a small annoyance to most people, you may not be aware that this tiny current can affect your electronics in a big way.
In the industry, it’s called an electrostatic discharge and the problem is so significant that there’s even an industry association devoted to the study of this phenomenon. The ESD Association says the static shock we get from walking across a carpet can damage electronic components and even ignite flammable mixtures.
The association defines the electrostatic discharge as a result of an imbalance of electrical charges within or on the surface of a material. Some estimates of the damage of static electricity on electronics range in the billions of dollars annually.
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Your electronics at risk
According to the ESD Association, an electronic device may no longer function if it is exposed to a static-electricity event. The charge may have caused a metal melt, junction breakdown, or oxide failure. As a result, the device’s circuitry is permanently damaged causing the device to stop functioning totally or at least partially.
For example, if your cell phone keypad suddenly doesn’t work, it’s likely the result of electrostatic discharge. Similarly, if a USB or Ethernet port isn’t working it’s also probably the result of the same phenomenon, according to an article on the impact of static electricity on cell phones in ElectronicDesign magazine.
The problem is exacerbated by the increasing miniaturization of electronics. In addition, these small devices are often interconnected via cables to other devices that may conduct static electricity.
Cell phones aren’t the only devices susceptible to damage from static electricity. Computers and photocopy machines also are vulnerable at your office or home.
How to prevent shocks
Fortunately, there are ways to lower the risk of a static shock to your electronics. Here are some common ways you can do that in your home or office:
- Buy a humidifier. According to electronics manufacturer Honeywell, adding moisture to the air decreases static electricity from materials in a room. Relative humidity of 50% is the sweet spot to minimize static electricity.
- Wear shoes with leather soles. You’ve probably noticed static electricity when you walk around a carpet wearing wool socks or shoes with rubber soles. Instead, go for cotton socks or leather-soled shoes.
- Consider buying an anti-static wrist strap. These wrist straps are useful if you work on computers for long stretches because they come with a grounding wire. A recent search online showed some cost as little as $5.
- Purchase an anti-static mat for your desk chair, especially if your home or office has carpeting. These mats are specially designed for your home or office because they dissipate electrical charges.
Local Electrical Contractor
Empowered Global, Inc. is a local electrical contractor serving Estero, Bonita Springs, and Naples. We help our clients with all aspects of their electrical systems, including:
- Panel changes
- Landscape lighting
- Electrical remodeling
- Whole home generator installation and maintenance
Call us at (239) 330-4520 to schedule a free in-home consultation.