Safe test bench material?
 

It's generally easier to test a system, and especially a new build, outside of the case. In the past I have just used the motherboard box however I'm not exactly a veteran when it comes to this. So what material do you guys lay your boards on when testing them? The motherboard box seems pretty safe. I thought about using the motherboard anti static bag as well or even a rubber mat. Any suggestions?

rubber mat or cardboard is the best as it can't build any static.

static bags are bad cause it can hold static which could damage something.

Thanks for the reply. I thought I had read somewhere that a static bag was a bad idea but I couldn't quite remember.

The static bag discharges static on the outside of the bag, which leaves your motherboard danger. I use an anti-static mat underneath my motherboard and I also have the motherboard stands screwed in place to elevate it.

I've always just used the motherboard box or the static bag the MB came in on top of the MB box. I always ground myself on the computer case before working and have never had an issue.:thumb:

I prefer to lay things out on a shag carpet covered with balloons. jk- but In my opinion, if you're in a room without alot of carpet, and it's not the winter time, all you should need to do is touch a computer case before you start. There isn't much static electricity around the house in the humid summer.

I always just used a mb box or mdf, never had an issue.

Alright thanks guys. I've never had a problem before or anything, I always do ground myself beforehand. The room has linonelum flooring so there isn't much to cause static electricity. Do any of you recommend acutally using an anti static band? Seems a little overkill to me. I know it's better to be sorry than safe I guess.

I wouldnt worry about it, Ive been running caseless for 3 over years and Ive never had an issue no matter what the what the board was lying on.

I have always used the MB Box, I wouldn't go to the trouble of a anti-static band, just ground your self and you should be fine. While you could still bork something, I never have and thats quite a few times.
But you never know:ph34r:

One of us will probably take something out now since we posted here:bleh: