[Elecraft] Looking for static dissipative bench pad

[AJSOENKE at aol.com]

In a message dated 9/15/2007 9:51:23 A.M.  Pacific Daylight Time, 
n9vv at wowway.com writes:
_http://www.cyberguys.com/templates/searchdetail.asp?productID=451_ 
(http://www.cyberguys.com/templates/searchdetail.asp?productID=451)    

That's a nice looking package at a reasonable price. With a satisfaction  
guarantee I'd try it.
 
In my opinion:
 
Plusses: low cost, self contained, can also serve as ESD safe container  
between worksessions or transporting assembies.
 
Minuses: It'll be a little awkward working around the hem lines and handles  
- I'd hate to see the board and parts take flight if I snagged the handle 
while  turning around or standing or bending down to pick up a dropped item.  A  
wrist strap nice addition and I couldn't tell if it had extra 'snap' for wrist  
strap. W ould also be nice to know how well it handles accidental contact 
with  host soldering iron tip or solder splashes. ( You have safety glasses, I  
presume? ) You want to protect your eyes as much as your radio.
 
Comment:  I have used a variety of pads from many places and the most  often 
used are from 3M. They are often a blue color or a tan color, are  about 1/4 
inch thick with a foam like soft backing and a solid but flexible  plastic 
facing. They will melt some with  contact of solder iron tip, but  not a lot if 
you can avoid long contact.
 
Electronix Express looks like they have the same item for $14.95   didn't see 
the handles but the graphic is almost identical.
 
Check out also PC Connection, CDW, Fordham Tools, Tucker Tools. Lots of  
others - - -
 
Al, WA6VNN



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