by Andy on October 31, 2011
When working with ESD sensitive products you need to know exactly what protection is needed. To help let workers know how sensitive certain devices are there are several classifications that are used. The three ESD classifications are the human body model (HBM), charge device model (CDM) and the machine model (MM). Each has its own standards for different situations in ESD-safe rooms and products. In this article we will be looking at the human body model classification.
The human body model is the most common classification system for ESD-safe products. When preparing a room with HBM concerns you are trying to stop static buildup on humans from discharging to a conductor. The various classifications for this model tell the user what level of voltage will damage the parts being made.
To the right is a chart of the various classifications for the human body model. The lowest class is Class 0 which requires very stringent regulation. In order to meet this classification you need to make sure that you have the best systems in place possible for dissipating charge on human operators.
HBM classification deals with direct, short bursts of current, so products are typically put into various classes through a rather simple process. The tester will normally hook up the device to a positive and negative lead and given a pulse of a specific voltage level. The voltage of the pulse is increased until the product is damaged and that level designates the class of the project.
If you want to make sure your work area is ESD-safe there are a number of products that you can use. Surface resistivity meters allow you to test any ESD-safe mats or flooring that you have to make sure they are as conductive as they should be. Having conductive, dissipative, or anti-static mats and flooring can help reduce the amount of charge generated from the operator moving around. To directly check the operator you can use workstation monitors. These can check that the workstation, worker, and wrist strap are properly grounded to protect your products.
If you have any further questions about the human body model classification leave a comment below or check out Electrostatic Discharge Association’s website.
Make sure to check back in next Monday, November 7 for another blog post on the charge device model ESD classification system!
Read Part 3 of “What are the ESD Classifications? Machine Model”
by Andy on October 25, 2011
We really are amazed at how quickly the front of our building is coming together and how great it continues to look everyday! It’s been just about three weeks since we last updated you on our “new-look” building and wanted to share what we currently have going on around here at All-Spec!
With the last update, our building was not yet painted a brand new color and just in the beginning stages. As of today, we have added some color and this is what the front of our building is looking like:
Notice those beautiful stone pillars? In addition, we have also started the landscaping process and are in the middle of adding some terrific pieces to the outside of our building and surrounding areas:
This last one borders our parking lot and faces the front of our building. Nature makes a huge difference we think!
Be sure to check back when we are completely done and have an official brand new looking building to show off!
by Andy on October 20, 2011
The Kasp EMS6101 portable motion sensor alarm is wire free and a convenient and effective security device available at All-Spec! It is battery operated, easy installed and detects even the slightest movement while attracting fast attention through the ultra loud alarm.
Other features include:
- Can be free standing or wall mounted
- Easily armed and disarmed by coded key
- Alarm delay feature for disarming alarm
- Loud 110 dB alarm
- Ready to use-no wiring needed!
- Requires 2 AAA batteries (not included)
This is also a great product for communication workers and electricians that have their tools stolen on the job. What are some other uses that you think this item would be perfect for? Tell us below!
by Angie A. on October 18, 2011
“Using a thermal imaging camera for building diagnostics?” You might not have heard of this concept, but it is of benefit on different aspects.
First, when performing building inspections, the inspector is mostly limited to a visual inspection of the property. The issue is that problems may not be visible to the naked eye. In order to discover building problems, an inspector would have to “guess” the location, and then open up walls to try to pinpoint a possible problem.
Second, an inspector cannot possibly detect or predict a future problem, such as mold. But, the use of an infrared camera can help detect problems that otherwise would have gone unnoticed until the damage is greater. All-Spec Industries now carries the FLIR B-series thermal imaging cameras (B200, B300, B360 and B400) which, among other things, feature a “dew point alarm” that displays areas with risk of surface condensation where mold growth could occur.
All-Spec is now also offering the FLIR T-series infrared cameras (T200, T300, T360, T400 and T620) which are excellent choices for inspecting electrical and mechanical systems. The use of a thermal imaging camera can detect abnormal patterns of heat in electrical circuits, in motors or other mechanical equipment, or indicate pipe temperatures or identify line blockages in fluid systems. Mechanical inspections can be challenging, but they don’t have to be with use of a FLIR infrared camera. Also, adding an infrared camera to your toolbox can save you money! Detecting problems before they turn into mechanical failures can prevent costly equipment repairs, production downtime, even a dangerous electrical fire.
by Andy on October 14, 2011
While we are running our contest to find the oldest working Weller soldering tool you may find yourself in need of a more modern replacement. Weller is currently producing a line of soldering stations that are not only top of the line products, but also can help save money on energy costs.
The Weller WX series soldering station monitors and controls the use of the equipment attached to constantly change the energy output as needed. This allows the unit to automatically put items on stand-by or turn them off when not in use, saving energy and money for the operator. By constantly monitoring the power output this station can also increase the life of the attached products, giving you even more use with the already long lasting Weller products.
Weller WX soldering stations can be used with the WXP series soldering irons, WFE series fume extraction units, and WHP series preheating plates.
Have you used these or any other green soldering systems? Let us know your thoughts and experience with them in the comments!
