Question about static mats (for components)

[Tom09]

Hello wonderful people. I was wondering about static, if I was to place a component on a anti static mat that is grounded then wouldn't that make static jump from me to the computer part because it is connected to ground? Also, is there a difference between static mats that you are supposed to stand on when building a computer and ones that you put your computer parts on?

Sorry if this is a stupid question I am just struggling to find an answer to the question. 

 

[tkitch]

So, here's the thing about static mats / straps:

 

Unless you're working in a high-tech lab, using exceptionally sensitive equipment?  Mats do next to fucking nothing.

 

PC Equipment is not especially static vulnerable.  Go watch the LTT / Electroboom video for evidence.

 

If you want to build a PC:  Build it on a table.  Plug in the PSU to the wall, and touch the metal case of the PSU occasionally.  (The case is grounded.)

 

Don't walk around shuffling your feet on carpet trying to build up static, and you won't have any issues.

[Heliian]

20 minutes ago, tkitch said:

Mats do next to fucking nothing.

We'll that's not true. 

 

You might not need static mats for your average computer building but they help by putting everything at the same potential and can be grounded to dissipate any static.  

 

A mat is used in conjunction with a wrist ground for yourself and grounding to earth for added safety.(at minimum you want to be at the same potential as the components). 

 

I don't work in a lab, but the high value components I work on get the mat treatment.  

 

I also live in a cold, dry climate where static can build up quickly even if you're not "dragging your feet across carpet".  

[tkitch]

6 minutes ago, Heliian said:

We'll that's not true. 

 

You might not need static mats for your average computer building but they help by putting everything at the same potential and can be grounded to dissipate any static.  

 

A mat is used in conjunction with a wrist ground for yourself and grounding to earth for added safety.(at minimum you want to be at the same potential as the components). 

 

I don't work in a lab, but the high value components I work on get the mat treatment.  

 

I also live in a cold, dry climate where static can build up quickly even if you're not "dragging your feet across carpet".  

linus disagrees:

 

[Heliian]

3 minutes ago, tkitch said:

linus disagrees

Linus doesn't work on expensive circuitry.  

 

Like I said, not for your average builder.