
If you're working with a 32-bit microcontroller such as an ARM or a TMS, ESD can be a very serious problem. What components are not ESD-tolerant then? The most commonly-damaged components I've personally seen are higher-end digital components. When you're ready to come back later, remember where this guide is. If your idea of electronics is an 8/16-bit micro, a 555 timer, and a 7805 for power, you're fine. While it's rarely enough protection that they will survive if you go out of your way to try and damage them, it's sufficient for casual handling.

Nowadays msot components are designed to take a good bit of ESD abuse. Well, some of this is true sometimes, sometimes not. The usual justification is that components are cheap, ESD problems are rare, etc. I've seen the above argument from hobbyists more than I care to mention. Finally, I'm a college student with an insatiable curiosity and desire to build things, but without the extra income to spend on non-essential items.
Run the trap snowtape professional#
On a somewhat related note, I am a certified IPC Specialist (sounds fancier than it is), which basically means I had professional training in soldering, including surface mount work. I have also held a job for about a year at a military contractor where ESD training and compliance inspections were required. As of the present time while this guide is being written I am a Master's student in electrical engineering, showing I have the knowledge, or at least research skills, to talk about an electrical topic.

I will attempt to always begin my guides with a bit of background information to let you know why I'm qualified to speak on the topic.

The ESD (Electro-Static Discharge) Guide for the Hobbyist
