Antistatic device

An antistatic device is any device that reduces, dampens, or otherwise inhibits the buildup or discharge of static electricity, which can damage electrical components such as computer hard drives, and even ignite flammable liquids and gases.

Various symbols can be found on products, indicating that the product is electrostatically sensitive, as with sensitive electrical components, or that it offers antistatic protection, as with antistatic bags.

Most commonly seen are variations of a reaching hand in a triangle. It is detailed as ANSI/ESD standard S8.1-2007.

The symbol will often depict the hand being crossed out using negative space. It acts as a warning for the component being protected, indicating that it is ESD sensitive and is not to be touched unless antistatic precautions are taken.

Another version of the symbol has the triangle surrounded by an arc. This variant is in reference to the antistatic protective device, such as an antistatic wrist strap, rather than the component being protected. It usually does not feature the hand being crossed out, indicating that it makes contact with the component safe.

Another common symbol takes the form of a bold circle being intersected by three arrows. Originating as a U.S. military standard, it has been adopted industry-wide. It is intended as a depiction of a device or component being breached by static charges, indicated by the arrows.

Types of antistatic devices include:

An antistatic bag is a bag used for storing or shipping electronic components which are prone to damage caused by electrostatic discharge (ESD).

An antistatic bar or simply static bar is a piece of equipment used for removing static electricity from a production line, usually on webs of paper or plastic film. It is important in the manufacturing and printing industries, although it can be used in other applications as well.

Static bars are fitted so air can pass through them and they need to be grounded.

There are two types of static bars. Shockless bars will not cause an electric shock if they are touched. "Hot" bars must be placed so they will not be accidentally touched.

Antistatic garments or antistatic clothing is required to prevent damage to electrical components or to prevent fires and explosions when working with flammable liquids and gases.

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Wikipedia