Alternate wrist strap verification methods

In lieu of using a commercial ESD wrist strap checker to verify the functionality of an ESD
wrist strap assembly (wrist strap and cord), a volt-ohm meter (VOM) with > 0.5 volt output on
the Ohms setting may be used.
The following steps, along with Figures 1 and 2 describe the process for using a VOM as an
ESD wrist strap checker. The steps shown were established using a Model 42 Fluke meter.
An equivalent VOM may be used to perform the check.

Alternate Method
(1)

Connect the wrist strap, cord, VOM, and person as shown in

Figures 1 and 2.

Figure 1

Figure 2

(1) Place the VOM on the ohms auto scale.

(2) The reading should be within the approved range of > 750K ohms and
< 10 Meg ohms (ESD Control Handbook Issue 8 Section 7.1).
(3) If the readings fall in the stated range STOP. (The wrist strap/cord and
connection are good.)
(4) If the reading is >10 Meg ohms then remove the wrist strap and apply
ESD lotion to the skin in the contact area of the wrist strap and fingers
that hold the Ohmmeter return wire, reattach the test setup as in
Figures 1 & 2 and re-test.
(5) If the readings fall in the stated range STOP. (The wrist strap/cord
and connection are good.)
(6) If the readings are outside the approved range replace the wrist strap
cord only and re-test.

(7) If the readings fall in the stated range STOP. (The wrist strap/cord and
connection are good.)
(8) If the readings are outside the approved range replace the wrist strap
only and re-test.
(9) If the readings fall in the stated range STOP the wrist strap/cord is
good.
(10) If the readings are outside the approved range go back to step 1 or
reject the ESD wrist strap.
(11) Record results of test as described in LWI or in accordance with this
procedure.
(12) Record results of test as described in LWI or in accordance with this
procedure.