Removing EPROMS - my advice Message #5 Posted by Tom (UK) on 21 July 2003, 12:35 p.m., in response to message #4 by Meindert Kuipers
EPROMS (like most chips) can be damaged by static. Even though they may still work small static discharges can affect device life and reliability.
Before removing them get some conductive foam (this is normally 1/4 inch thick, black and doesn't spring back into shape very well). Failing that get a polystyrene ceiling tile and cover it with baking foil.
Remove the devices with a small screwdriver, working them out about 1mm at a time at each end so they come out 'square'. Do this on a (dry and clean) metal kitchen sink as this will act as a good ground. Touch the metal of the sink often to discharge your body.
After removal, immediatly press into the conductive foam / baking foil. You could also simply wrap them in the baking foil but this would mean you can see what's inside.
I would certainly put something over the window to stop the data being erased (note that a flash may have alot of uv energy - so don't photograph them again unless you cover the windows up!)
There is a funny story about flash photography and telephone exchanges. Ask if you want to know.
AFN - Tom.
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