Zinc Whiskers are conductive filaments that grow on electroplated metal surfaces such as the raised floor tiles and support structures commonly found in computer server rooms. They are tiny and can grow quickly to bridge the minute gaps in electrical circuits. Due to their conductivity they are increasingly being identified as the cause of the electrical short circuits behind costly and potential catastrophic computer system failures.
The real problems arise when the whiskers are dislodged during cleaning or maintenance and are dispersed by air cooling systems into electrical equipment.
The key to their containment is awareness and OCS Specialist Services staff are experienced in identifying and remedying potential zinc whisker problems.
