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View Full Version : Stupid question of the day - ESD

BerksWebGuy
12-2-04, 04:24 PM
Everytime I get out of my car and go to shut the door, I get shocked.

It doesn't matter on the weather outside (not humidity related), and doesn't matter how long the trip is (only 3 minutes to work).

What could be causing this constant ESD (ElectroStatic Discharge)?? Its constant and sometimes it really hits hard. I guess it could be the seat fabric, but it doesn't really happen in other cars I ride in.
tbonekkt
12-2-04, 04:25 PM
rubbing/dragging your feet on the car's carpet :D
Dabrowski
12-2-04, 05:03 PM
Everytime I get out of my car and go to shut the door, I get shocked.

It doesn't matter on the weather outside (not humidity related), and doesn't matter how long the trip is (only 3 minutes to work).

What could be causing this constant ESD (ElectroStatic Discharge)?? Its constant and sometimes it really hits hard. I guess it could be the seat fabric, but it doesn't really happen in other cars I ride in.

I've typically been one to get consistent shocks, but lately, I haven't noticed as much. I guess I've become less electric. The only advice I can give you as be ready for it. Sometimes if I'm not thinking about it, and I get hit, it's worse. I'm now in the habit of touching things pretty hard (mostly the car door), as in when I'm going to grab it and I am preparing not to get shocked, I'll end up kind of punching it first, although it's not really a punch.

Hate those that really make your body sore.
satis
12-2-04, 06:34 PM
I do the same thing. I always tap things with a less-sensitive part of my body (ie, palm, back of my hand, arm) before touching something with my the more-sensitive tip of my fingers.

I get shocked all the damn time too. I blame Bush and his mind-controlling satellite.
(jj)
12-2-04, 06:54 PM
Get yourself 2 alligator clips, attach them to a length of 20 gauge wire, after you get in the drivers seat attach one clip to something metal and the other to your left ear lobe Just remember to remove the clip from your ear after you've taken hold of the door handle to get out. :D
Vanja
12-2-04, 07:14 PM
I have the same strange problem.

I only get shocked when I'm closing the door though, because then I'm shutting it pushing the upper right corner which is of black metal..
Shocking doesn't occur when I'm opening it touching the door-handle because it's made of plastic.

These strange things didn't occur all the time.. I think they started a year ago...

Are you driving a Toyota?
B&T
12-2-04, 08:17 PM
I guess it could be the seat fabric . . . Yes, it is.
NoPots
12-3-04, 11:27 PM
Yes, it is.

Yep, sliding your rear over it is the generator. Diffrent materials are better generators than others. The relitive humidity is a major factor in how fast the charge leaks off. Above 50% humdity the charge will "usually" leak off fast enought to prevent a discharge.
mjp
12-7-04, 06:02 PM
Yep, sliding your rear over it is the generator. Diffrent materials are better generators than others. The relitive humidity is a major factor in how fast the charge leaks off. Above 50% humdity the charge will "usually" leak off fast enought to prevent a discharge.Now, on what other hosting company's forum can you post a question about static electric shocks and receive answers like these?

Ha ha, I am continually amazed!
B&T
12-7-04, 06:21 PM
Now, on what other hosting company's forum can you post a question about static electric shocks and receive answers like these?

Ha ha, I am continually amazed!
This is a great forum. Why else would I have so many posts here (that and way too much time on my hands)?