Electronic Workbench Key Terms

Become aware of electronic workbench key terms

By Amy Lynn

Electronic workbenches are used by companies and individuals who work with electronics on a daily basis. Electrostatic discharge (ESD) must be avoided when working with electronics, because they can cause damage to the highly sensitive parts. Electronic workbenches have anti-static properties that allow workers to do their jobs without the threat of static electricity interfering. If you are in the market to buy electonic workbenches, it is best that you brush up on your electronic workbench key terms before making your purchase.

Technical electronic workbench

Technical electronic workbenches are used by businesses who need static-free work surfaces. These workbenches come with electrostatic discharge (ESD) grounding capabilities.
Try: Lista International offers photos of technical electronic workbenches organized in different ways to accomodate any work environment.

ESD

Electrostatic discharge, otherwise known as ESD, happens when electricity is passed through a body or some other type of conductor. Companies that work with electronics need to have workbenches for their employees that eliminates this electrical discharge so that sensitive equipment is not damaged or destroyed.
Try: SiliconFarEast.com has a detailed description of ESD. They describe how ESD happens, who it affects and what type of electronic failures can be attributed to ESD.

Anti-static workbench

An anti-static workbench is one that is grounded so that static electricity and ESD does not affect the products being worked on. They have worksurfaces that help to eliminate ESD and come in different shapes and sizes to accomodate the type of electronic work that is being done, as well as the employeess doing the work.
Try: There are a variety of anti-static work stations available at All-Spec Industries, with detailed descriptions for each.

ESD chairs

Electronic workbenches that require anti-static properties need to be coupled with chair with chairs that eliminate ESD, as well.
Try: TDI International has ESD chairs in different shapes and sizes to accomodate different work benches and employees.

Ground cords

A ground cord is used in ESD workstations to prevent static electricity. They can be used to ground wrist straps, table mats, floor mats and shelf liners.
Try: ESDProduct has several lines of grounding products, including ground cords.

Table mat

Table mats are used on electonic workbenches to help reduce ESD and static electricity, and also to provide workers with glare-free work surfaces.
Try: There are several anti-static table mats to view at Stanley Supply & Services.