[Elecraft] Antistatic mat

[Don Wilhelm]

Stan,

Try a Google search on 'anti-static mat'  I just did and found several on
the first page - sizes ranging from 24 x 24 inches to 10 x 22 inches and
prices from $38 to $8.39.  I use one of the smaller ones - sized for a
keyboard and find it adequate as long as I make certain I am working over it
when dealing with static sensitive components.

Yes, these must be connected to a ground through a 1 meg or so resistor
(many have the high value resistor built into the connection cord) in order
to drain away a static charge.  A direct ground can cause injury or death
under the right circumstances (for the same reasons, avoid doing
electronic/electrical work on a hard-grounded metal table - a non-conductive
work bench is the best for safety).

73,
Don W3FPR

----- Original Message ----- 

Can someone recommend a source for the anti-static mats? I have
looked at some in a catalog from HMC and they were pretty expensive. I am
sure that I am looking at the wrong thing. Not sure what to get and with
what type of connections, or even if they need to be connected to the ground
source.