Continuous wrist strap monitoring has long been an important part of electronics assembly and ESD-protected workstations. Traditionally, monitors verify an operator’s grounding connection and alert them when conditions fall outside acceptable limits.
But what if an ESD monitor could do more than sound an alarm? What if it could control power to workstation equipment based on proper grounding?
That’s the concept behind combining the 19330 Full-Time Continuous Monitor or 19655 Dual Operator Continuous Monitor with the 19333 Power Relay.
From Monitoring to Access Control
At an ESD workstation, proper operator grounding is essential. A continuous monitor verifies grounding conditions, but an alarm alone doesn’t prevent an operator from continuing to work without a proper ground.
With this configuration, connected equipment remains off until the required grounding conditions are met.
The 19330 and 19655 continuously monitor the operator’s grounding connection and the workstation. The 19333 Power Relay uses the monitors’ signal to control power to connected equipment.
When the required conditions are satisfied, power is supplied. If those conditions are not met, power remains off.
Making Grounding Part of the Process
The 19333 Power Relay can control power to equipment used at the workstation, including:
• Soldering irons
• Workbench and task lighting
• Fume extractors
• Ionizers
• Light towers
• Test equipment
Rather than relying solely on an audible or visual alarm, this configuration makes proper grounding a condition for operating connected equipment.
In other words, proper grounding becomes the key that unlocks the workstation.
A Different Approach to ESD Compliance
In electronics manufacturing, effective ESD control depends on consistent operator behavior. Employees must follow grounding procedures and respond appropriately to monitor alarms across shifts and workstations.
By linking grounding status to equipment power, the 19330 or 19655 and 19333 combination adds another layer of control. If an operator disconnects from ground or monitored conditions fall outside the required parameters, the system can remove power from connected equipment.
This approach helps reinforce ESD procedures by making grounding an active part of workstation operation—not simply a condition that triggers an alarm.
ESD Control with a Physical Consequence
Continuous monitoring has been available for years. The difference here is what happens when a grounding problem is detected.
The 19330 Full-Time Continuous Monitor and 19655 Dual Operator Continuous Monitor work with the 19333 Power Relay to connect grounding status with equipment operation.
The message is simple:
No proper ground. No power. No workstation access.
For manufacturers looking to reinforce consistent ESD practices, this offers a different way to approach workstation control.
See the Concept in Action
See how verified grounding status can control power to workstation equipment and help prevent operation when proper grounding is not confirmed.
Watch the video to see the concept in action:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UQuX-WhQkv8
Want to See It in Person?
Contact Desco to schedule a demonstration of the 19330 Full-Time Continuous Monitor, 19655 Dual Operator Continuous Monitor, and 19333 Power Relay.