Field-induced ESD from CRT´s: its cause and cure

Electrostatic discharges have been reported at business locations where individuals wearing headsets work in front of cathode ray tubes (CRT´s). The cause has been elusive. We have investigated the problem and have demonstrated that an electric field coupling exists between the human body and the CRT´s. This coupling can elevate the electrostatic potential of personnel working near the CRT by thousands of volts. The personnel voltage can then trigger a field-induced electrostatic discharge to a nearby grounded conductor, such as a metallic component in a headset. We have devised a protection strategy for this ESD event