61 35 ... Notes On ESD Protection (Electro Static Discharge)

Special tools required:

12 7 060

For further information on special tools, refer to GENERAL ELECTRICAL SYSTEM - SPECIAL TOOLS - 3-Series (M54/E46) .

NOTE: Electrical components which are particularly sensitive to electrostatic discharge (electronic control units, sensors, etc.) are marked with the ESD warning symbol.

E- Electro

S- Static

D- Discharge

For further information on this subject, please refer to Service Information SWZ 2 06 04 (128).

Statically charged persons can discharge by touching electrical components.

Fig 1: View Of Static Discharge

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

NOTE: Humans can only detect a discharge starting from a level of approx. 3000 V.

The danger threshold for electrical components already starts from a level of approx. 100 V.

Fig 2: Showing Correct Way Of Handling Electrical Components

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

IMPORTANT: Do not touch pins or multi-pin connectors directly!
Touch electrical components by their housings only.

IMPORTANT: To prevent electrical components from being damaged or destroyed by electrostatic discharge, it is absolutely essential to comply with the following instructions:

When replacing electrical components, leave the replacement components in their original packaging until immediately before they are to be installed
If necessary, always return a removed component in its original packaging (always pack the component away immediately)
Read and comply with user information on using the associated ESD special tool 12 7 060