Basically:No I'm not really geared up for dealing with electronics to be honest. Is there any diy method of preventing static damage? I had read warnings about damaging MOSFETs all right but it was actually the NPN that was the problem.
- Don't handle static sensitive parts by their leads.
- Wear a grounded grounding strap or, minimally, ground yourself before touching components.
- Use a conductive work surface
- Store/transport devices in approved containers
Static can be generated from unexpected sources. Try removing some cellophane tape from it's roll in the dark.