[Elecraft] Looking for static dissipative bench pad

[Bill Tippett]

WB2SRF:

 >Using a conductor for a ESD ground pad is not a good idea.

 >Besides the obvious short circuit or electric shock hazard that could
occur.

 >I learned from taking ESD courses at Lucent Technology  and Motorola
where I was employed. that  slow gradient discharge of the static
electric buildup is required otherwise a high peak current can destroy
semiconductors. That is why it is called  (ESD) electrostatic dissipative

         Which is why the 1M series resistor is inserted
between the foil and ground.  I like a dead short between
my body and the foil (to absolutely eliminate any potential
difference) and then 1M from the foil to ground for the
reasons you stated above.  I usually even touch one hand
to the foil before touching extremely ESD sensitive devices
just in case my wrist strap is faulty!  I never apply power
to anything (except my ESD-safe soldering iron) when I work
on the surface to prevent shorts or shocks.  I've burned my
fingers many times but haven't killed myself (yet).  :-)
I've also never zapped any semiconductors in several SMD
projects, although I've found less exotic ways to destroy
parts, such as mounting them in the wrong place!

         As I said before, you can certainly spend more but
IMHO it's unnecessary.  I use the $35 CSI clone of the
Hakko 936 for the same reason.  I would rather spend my
money on other things, but that's an individual choice.

                                 73,  Bill  W4ZV