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.< >