If memory serves, there are two classes of protective wrap which are
SUPPOSED to be used. One, the "primary" packaging layer, is supposed to be
moderately conductive so that it forms a protective layer around the entire
perpiphery of the card, thereby protecting it (the card) from spot chrges
transferred to it by handling. The other, the "secondary" packaging layer,
is intended to provide mechanical protection for the card and its primary
packaging. Common examples of the primary packaging include the black
conductive bags we commonly see used for this purpose. The pink-poly bags
and bubble wrap, etc, are anti-static but not conductive, and are
consequently qualified as "secondary" packaging, as they create no static
charge on their own, but don't do anything to dissipate it. Aluminum foil,
properly applied will qualify as primary packaging, though it's not ideal
due to its fragility. The fact that it will discharge batteries and other
things likely to be found on a board causes other concerns, but, PROPERLY
applied, it will serve as primary ESD-protective packaging.
Dick
-----Original Message-----
From: Zane H. Healy <healyzh_at_aracnet.com>
To: Discussion re-collecting of classic computers
<classiccmp_at_u.washington.edu>
Date: Wednesday, May 12, 1999 12:27 AM
Subject: Re: static bags
>>I've pretty well run out of my supply of PCB antistatic bags (appropriated
>>from inbound work shipments) for storing spare cards.
>>
>>Does anyone know of a cheap source for antistatic ziplocks for storing
cards
>>in? I have heard of just using aluminum foil, etc. Any words of wisdom
from
>>the list?
>>
>>Jay West
>
>Sadly our new servers are using different hard drive sleds, the ones we'd
>been using were perfect for dual and quad height DEC boards, and I'm about
>out also.
>
>I've a question along this line, what about newspaper? I've used that, but
>I've heard recently that's not a good idea.
>
>I've gotten boards wrapped in foil, not sure if they worked, don't remember
>if I tested them (scares the H*** out of me having them wrapped that way
>even though I hear it's safe)
>
> Zane
>| Zane H. Healy | UNIX Systems Adminstrator |
>| healyzh_at_aracnet.com (primary) | Linux Enthusiast |
>| healyzh_at_holonet.net (alternate) | Classic Computer Collector |
>+----------------------------------+----------------------------+
>| Empire of the Petal Throne and Traveller Role Playing, |
>| and Zane's Computer Museum. |
>| http://www.aracnet.com/~healyzh/ |
Received on Wed May 12 1999 - 07:55:33 BST