carrying cases and ESD

[Indy-3]

My ESD problem with the K2 and KPA followed a severe shaking over washboard roads on a voyage to remote Chaco Canyon.  The K2 was riding in a Lowes foam surround carrying case.  I can not prove, but I do not think the ESD that zapped the directional couplers came from an antenna.  It happened immediately upon reconnecting the K2 to the KPA (which had been left entirely disconnected and which worked perfectly before the trip).

for me, at least, the moral of the story, I now have static free wrapping for the K2 when it rides in the foam fitting case.  Maybe I am wrong, but can't hurt.  Maybe this report will also protect others from the frustration.

73,

Fred
KT5X
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[Stuart Rohre]

Hi,
Indeed, vibration in mobile transport creates triboelectricity, a charge
build up by friction of wires insulations against conductors.  It could be
not the foam of the box, (which usually is grey or black indicating carbon
content) but the wiring inside the radio.

It is always good practice to short a cable before connecting it to other
electronics to remove any residual charge.
73,
Stuart
K5KVH


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