[sdiy] Storing ICs (and static sensitivity) - how much to worry? (Products)

[Seb Francis]

I've always kept my ICs in normal cheap plastic drawers and never had a 
problem.  True I do usually keep them pushed into black antistatic foam 
cut to fit the drawers (especially more expensive ICs and anyway it 
helps make finding the right IC easier).  Some of the cheaper ICs are 
just chucked in the drawers loose and even with these I've never had a 
problem .. maybe I've just been lucky?  I do make a point of touching 
earth to ground myself before handling ICs.

Seb


Julian wrote:
> Right,
>
> So ive been convinced now that its probably a good idea to pay attention to problems with static...
>
> This -
>
> http://www.rapidonline.com/Tools-Fasteners-Production-Equipment/Storage-Packing-Equipment/Storage-Cabinets/ESD-safe-storage-cabinets/60601/kw/
>
> is actually what got me onto the subject (as i was thinking of emptying the bags of ICs into one of the "standard issue" non ESD 
> safe cabinates...
>
> Theyre silly money, i know, but, i guess, not close to as much as the ICs themselves are worth, and, more to the point, not as much 
> as my time is worth putting dud chips into repairs, and going arround in circles because of it...
>
> I was wondering if the cabinates should specifically be earthed themselves, but the talk of farraday cadges has explained that, 
> whilst probably better earthing them, its not essential (it would be difficult for me to earth them in my situation)
>
> Not that ill buy one tommorow, but im guessing noone objects? ; )
>
> (and, yeah, i know itlld be cheaper to just use bags, but when i have to search each time, re-order the duplicates, etc.etc. - in 
> short i just want things organised!)
>
> Julian
>
>
>
>