Hi R, C, and B,
I have a new part rack screwed to the wall, which I will use for the 'fatter' comonents. For smaller ones, I bought books like this: **broken link removed** for my start in SMD PCBs, these of course are open to the elements (almost)
I also bought components for a particular project from Farnell, and as mentioned came in anti static sealed bags. This was what initiated the question, why?
I read a little about using SMDs and B has reminded me about the soldering problem. I have many old through the hole components, that I've had for a long time, and have to clean the legs before soldering.
I think I'll store the books in sealable bags with silica gel. Perhaps this is overkill, as I'm not in a production environment.
Thanks, C.