What is the ground wrist?

Grounding wrist is a device that helps to release any electric charge that has been built on a person. Such devices are commonly worn by those who work on electronics, because even a small static-electrical discharge can damage sensitive components. The ground wrist is part of a larger family of preliminary devices known as a device for protection of electrostatic discharge (ESD). This is also commonly called other names, including antistatic wrist, ESD zone and antistatic bracelet. Most basic models have bracelets that are made of conductive fabric. They are worn around the wrist of man and connect to a small metal plate. The metal plate is connected to a long cord, which is usually connected to the crocodile. The crocodile clip is then connected to the ground to make the device function properly. Any electric charge that is being built on a person wearing a strap should be released through a grab and a cord and then through the crocodile clip and into the ground.

those who work on computers and other electronic devices are often required to wear a ground wrist. This is because static electricity can be built on a person when the folds of clothing are rubbed by more and objects in the room, especially if a person does not have antistatic clothing. If static electricity is not discharged by a harmless source, such as the ground wrist, it can accumulate and then be accidentally released into the objects with which the person comes into contact.

Modern computer and electronic components are often designed to resist the ESD, but this protection is not complete. RAM ties, processors, motherboard, hard drives and graphics cards have areas that, if exposed to ESD, could be significantly damaged or disturbed.