Possible anti-static prolem?

[Mr Doovde]

After asking and reading about anti-static precautions on Ocuk, I was aiming to ground myself on a radiator in my bedroom; and luckily, I don't receive all my components for my first build until tomorrow.

The strange thing is (and I've never had a problem before) is that when I walked to the window and back again to to my computer desk, I passed on an electrostatic discharge to my new case. Now I'm thinking that this may be a problem as I will ground myself on the radiator and have to walk back across the carpet tomorrow. Unfortunately, I also can't use another room. I know the chances of it happening again are minuscule, but I'm a little bit paranoid now (as if I wasn't already ). I've also been told that other people have had an occasional problem with this carpet .

I'm thinking of using the power supply, when fitted in the case, to ground myself when dealing with components outside the case. I understand that I have to have the psu in the 'off position', and I'm assuming the mains plug that the psu is fitted to also has to be switched off??? Though I must admit I'm a little bit paranoid about the whole psu thing. Someone has given me an anti-static wrist strap, which I figured I might as well use when working in the case.

Any advice is greatly appreciated.

 

[Mr Doovde]

Thanks for all the advice guys, it's really appreciated. I would purchase a mat, but I really don't want to spend more money unless I absolutely have to. I think I will ground myself to the the earth pin on a normal wall socket with the wrist strap, as that is what this particular one seems to be designed for. Although I won't be the same electrical potential as the case, by alternatively attaching the wrist strap to it, I'm guessing I should discharge/prevent any build-up of static?

One last thing, Is it ok to put/build the components on a wooden table, even though it is connected to that dreaded floor? Or should I just fiddle with them on the anti static-bags? Right. that should be my paranoia over with, though it's great enough at the moment to momentarily make me consider the 'naked building idea' .

 

[Mr Doovde]

Oops, I was still typing when you posted Jakstaar2007.

 

[Mr Doovde]

Thanks again guys, I will report back.