How do I protect myself when testing a PCB that involves an AC line?

I have received PCB samples containing AC line. Test is indispensable process on my side to ensure its quality and function. But is AC line dangerous? How do I protect myself during testing?

PCB Design, PCB Testing
November 30, 2023

Use residual current device. You will still get a large jolt if you touch the wires, but the RCD will protect your life.
Usepower tools outside: it did trip several times, and it turned out the extension cords had water inside the sockets, that kind of thing. It’s a nice safety feature.
Tape some insulating plastic sheet on the back of the PCB over the high voltage bits, if you only want to probe the low voltage side of the PCB.
Put some heatshrink over wires when they’re soldered to pins and other connectors. Make sure the amount of live exposed metal is kept to a minimum.

Oliver Smith

Oliver is an experienced electronics engineer skilled in PCB design, analog circuits, embedded systems, and prototyping. His deep knowledge spans schematic capture, firmware coding, simulation, layout, testing, and troubleshooting. Oliver excels at taking projects from concept to mass production using his electrical design talents and mechanical aptitude.

Oliver Smith

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