Static shocks

[stigpepper]

Hi,

I keeping getting static shocks from my equipment especially the volume control on the amp. It is a wake up call each time it happens but is it something I should be worried about.

Cheers

[Derek]

A static charge is normally transferred from you to the device and can be large enough cause damage.
Several years ago anything metal I touched gave me a static shock, door handles, the car, Hi-Fi system...
I traced it back to a specific pair of shoes, they got binned, I haven't had a problem since.
It might just be a case of changing your footwear, or similar, did you get a new carpet?

But if it’s not, then I would be sure to check the system has a sufficient earth.

[Fran]

If you have a multimeter you should check for continuity between the knob and the earth pin of the plug, and between the case and earth pin. If there is, then your amp is earthed properly and the problem is probably you being earthed through the amp - like in dereks case.


Fran

[Ivor]

A static charge is normally transferred from you to the device and can be large enough cause damage.
Several years ago anything metal I touched gave me a static shock, door handles, the car, Hi-Fi system...
I traced it back to a specific pair of shoes, they got binned, I haven't had a problem since.
It might just be a case of changing your footwear, or similar, did you get a new carpet?

But if it’s not, then I would be sure to check the system has a sufficient earth.

I have that with a particular pair of Hush Puppies. I don't use the hifi if I'm wearing them!

[stigpepper]

Unfortunately I do not have a multimeter to test the amp but I will keep an eye on my footwear. It could be the Liverpool slippers I got for my birthday.

Thanks again for the advice lads.

[Rocker]

Liverpool slippers?????

[stigpepper]

Don't knock them rocker, they may blow up my hifi but at least I'll never walk alone while I'm wearing them.