TestOut LabSim A+ Certification Practice Exam

What is a common myth regarding electrostatic discharge (ESD)?

1. If you can't see ESD, it can't harm computer components.

2. Static electricity is only a concern in humid environments.

3. If you can't feel ESD, the surge is not sufficient to harm computer components.

4. Only highly sensitive equipment can be damaged by ESD.

The correct answer is: If you can't feel ESD, the surge is not sufficient to harm computer components.

The assertion that if you can't feel electrostatic discharge (ESD), the surge is not sufficient to harm computer components is rooted in a common misunderstanding about ESD. Many individuals believe that the sensation of a static charge, often a slight shock, correlates directly with the potential for damage to electronic components. However, ESD can occur without any noticeable sensation or visible spark, yet it can still be damaging to delicate circuits. Components like microchips are particularly vulnerable to even small amounts of electrical discharge that may not be felt or seen. This is due to their sensitive nature, which can make them susceptible to damage from charges that are not strong enough to be perceived by human senses but are still capable of causing malfunctions or failures in the hardware. Therefore, it is critical to take precautions against ESD in all environments, regardless of whether a person feels a shock or not.