What condition allows the electrical assembly equipment to be effective in ESD-controlled environments?

For electrical assembly equipment to be effective in ESD (Electrostatic Discharge)-controlled environments, it is essential that it must be grounded or ionized. Grounding the equipment helps to ensure that any electrostatic charges are safely directed away from sensitive components, thereby preventing potential damage caused by ESD. Grounding eliminates static charge buildup and allows the equipment to dissipate any accumulated charge. On the other hand, ionization works to neutralize static charges in the air, making it less likely for electrostatic discharge to occur when handling sensitive electronic components.

These measures are critical in environments where sensitive electronic components are handled, as even small amounts of static electricity can cause significant damage or failure in electronic devices. By using properly grounded or ionized equipment, the risks associated with ESD are effectively mitigated, creating a safer working environment for assembling electronic components.