3 Reasons You Need to Pay More Attention to Static Control

No one likes to get shocked, least of all when handling electronics. However, too many people dismiss it as an occasional, minor inconvenience. If work with soldering for your business or your hobby, it’s important you do everything you can to prevent static shock. If you don’t take proper precautions, you could deal with expensive and dangerous consequences.

1. The Cost

The cost of replacing any parts or equipment fried by static shock is far greater than the cost of soldering accessories that will help prevent static and minimize static damage. There are anti-static mats, static shield bags, grounding straps and accessories and other products proven to keep soldering projects virtually free of static incidents. 

If you don’t purchase these items, you’ll not only have to replace damaged equipment and parts, but you’ll also have to factor in the cost of lost time redoing the project and possibly the cost of medical treatment as well.

2. The Risk to Safety

Static seems like a minor jolt of pain, but when you’re dealing with electronic and soldering equipment, there’s more power for static electricity to draw upon. This means that you or your employees can get really hurt — closer to how hurt they’d be if electrocuted through other means. Protect your staff and enact safe static practices in the employee handbook.

3. The Hazard to Your Building

Sparks from static electricity coursing through electronics and soldering equipment can start fires, especially if there are electrical outlets nearby. A fire puts your employees at greater risk and could lead to the destruction not only of your equipment, but of your entire building.

Static safety is something businesses owe to their employees — and to the well-being of the company. Invest in anti-static equipment now, before you embark on any more soldering projects. It’s a small, affordable price to pay considering the potential consequences.

The 3 Easiest Ways to Save Money When Soldering for Fun

Building computers, fixing electronics, and working with delicate machinery takes up many hours of an electronics enthusiast’s free time — but they love every minute of it. Unfortunately, it can be a pricey hobby, especially if you’re not charging for your services.

1. Buy the Right Supplies

The best soldering supplies businesses offer equipment both for professionals and hobbyists. There is likely to be a soldering station and all of the additional equipment you need available in a price range you can afford. For example, if you only do work on computers, there’s no need to pay for a large station that has enough power to weld large pieces of metal. If you mostly do your work on the go, you might only need a portable iron. Ask the experts to help you find the right one for your needs.

2. Start Charging a Small Amount

If you do quality work on the regular for friends and family, you might also consider asking them to reimburse you for parts at the very least. Plus, a series of small donations over time can go a long way toward buying the equipment and parts you require to keep helping them out.

3. Start a Soldering Club

Start a club and share tips with other electronics hobbyists on keeping the costs for your hobby under control. Pool together your resources. For example, if you can’t afford the soldering tools you need on your own, split the costs and keep the equipment for the entire club to use.

Working with electronics costs money, but there are absolutely ways to keep costs to a minimum. Compare different models and brands when it comes to soldering equipment and offset the cost wherever you can.