ESD, Magnetism etc.... - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Noidzoid
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: December 09, 2019, 02:02:12 pm
content: I started off researching small screwdrivers as I wanted to adjust some pots and read that I should be careful about which drivers are used.I really like the offerings from Wera as I have many of their other types of driver and find them comfortable and well made. They have sets that are sold as ESD safe which I assume is good however I didn't see anything in the description regarding magnetism, which I'm assuming is also important.As I understand only certain tools (or tools with/without certain properties) should be used when dealing with delicate electronic parts. With this in mind, what should I be watching out for in a tool intended for use on such components.When should I useESD safe toolsNon magnetic toolsCeramic toolsPlastic toolsAlso when using any of the above, what protocols (if any) should be followed.

author: Jeroen3
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 09, 2019, 02:24:27 pm
content: For trimpot adjustment you need a special Trimmer Adjustment Tool.https://octopart.com/search?currency=EUR&q=ACCTRITOB308-T000Which is non-conductive and ESD safe, and can fit around the wheel on the multiturn pot.For trimmer capacitors you need a fully plastic tool, as included with your oscilloscope probes for example.

author: RoGeorge
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 09, 2019, 02:30:21 pm
content: I'm using normal screwdrivers.For coils and magnetics, a plastic screwdriver. Sometimes even a sliced toothpick could do it.

author: Noidzoid
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: December 09, 2019, 09:18:06 pm
content: Quote from: RoGeorge on December 09, 2019, 02:30:21 pmDo you have to be careful in general in case your normal screwdrivers get magnetised. What damage could be done to what type of parts if they did?What do you mean by magnetics?Thanks

author: RoGeorge
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 09, 2019, 09:46:07 pm
content: Coils with a ferrite core can remain magnetized from screwdrivers with magnetic head. Other than that, be careful not to touch other parts of the circuit with the metal of the screwdriver, and make no short-circuit.Against ESD, you can discharge any static electricity by touching the metallic case of the circuit or the GND before making an adjustment.Never adjust high voltage circuits under power.

author: Electro Detective
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 09, 2019, 10:20:38 pm
content: Wouldbutcheredcustomized Stainless Steel objects work as screwdrivers in sensitive circuit adjustments?i.e. for adjusting stiff/stubborn'don't magnetize me, dude!'pots etcthat may/will bend or break plastic and ceramic adjustment tools.Does anyone even make stainless steel screwdrivers ? Never seen em..or didn't notice

author: Noidzoid
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: December 09, 2019, 10:36:17 pm
content: Quote from: Electro Detective on December 09, 2019, 10:20:38 pmhttps://products.wera.de/en/screwdrivers_series_kraftform_screwdrivers_stainless_steel.html

author: Noidzoid
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: December 10, 2019, 01:32:33 am
content: I do have an excellent no name brand set of precision screwdrivers with plastic handles that have had a lot of use over many years and are as good as the day I got them.Ideally I thought I needed special ones for working with electronics?If I make sure they were demagnetised and ground them on the metal casework of whatever I am working on, would these be as safe for the delicate components I may come across?Obviously I understand these could still arc or short if put in the wrong place.Or should I really be looking for stainless steel/plastic/ceramic/esd safe specialist ones?