[Elecraft] Static - a true story

[Dave G.]

I was working with a large scale scientific computer in a 
temperature and humidity controlled environment (68F 
and 50%H).
We were encountering quasi random errors which were 
(eventually) traced to coincide with console operations 
with a particular operator. There were no input errors on 
the key strokes!!
We called in the local University's research department 
to try to help us. 
Even though we had anti-static mats, grounding tabs, 
and we were using carpets with a copper strand content, 
it was found that this particular operator would carry a 
charge of ~18KV when walking from the tape drives to 
the console. Big "zap" on the keyboard, microsecond 
duration...
Long story made short -- The operator (female - no bias 
intended) was requested to refrain from wearing 
nylon/polyester clothing, she agreed and the problem 
was solved.
Moral: If you are nor going to take anti-static 
precautions, then sit *very* still in your chair and don't 
shuffle your feet !!

Dave