Electrostatic Discharge (ESD) Testing
Electrostatic Discharge (ESD) testing falls under Electro-Magnetic Compatibility (EMC) testing which is used to check the compatibility of any technical device under electrostatic phenomena. ESD sensitive devices are prone to circuit failure, electrostatic shock, or even explosion under an ESD event. Thus it becomes of utmost importance to test the immunity (resistance) of the devices toward ESD.
Electrostatic Discharge (ESD) Testing Services
Electrostatic Discharge (ESD) testing falls under Electro-Magnetic Compatibility (EMC) testing which is used to check the compatibility of any technical device under electrostatic phenomena. Devices with Metal Oxide Semiconductors (MOS) are most susceptible to ESDs and can result in catastrophic and latent defects. Catastrophic failures are permanent defects like metal melt, oxide failure, or junction breakdown. Contrarily the defects which partially degrade the component under working conditions and are hidden in nature are called latent defects.
An Electrostatic Discharge (ESD) simulator or an ESD Gun with a tip is used to develop ESD charges with a potential up to 8kV within the component, and check its functionality and safety. A pointed tip is used in the ESD Simulator for contact type discharges and a rounded tip for non-contact type discharges.
ESD phenomena come into action whenever two surfaces come in contact. Surface of any product is likely to be in contact with other surfaces during stages like manufacturing, packaging, handling, etc. Accordingly, the ESD Association has set standards for checking ESD under:
- Human Body Model (HBM) – transmission of ESD from human or any insulator to ESD sensitive device.
- Charge Device Model (CDM) – transmission from charged ESD sensitive device to any other surface at lower potential.
Video 01: Electrostatic Discharge (ESD) Testing
Common Uses of Electrostatic Discharge (ESD) Testing
- To check the operation of electronic devices as intended.
- To check the product life cycle against ESDs.
- To check the factor of safety while working around ESD sensitive devices.
Advantages of Electrostatic Discharge (ESD) Testing
- Ability to check the possible latent and catastrophic defects.
- Enhance customer satisfaction by reducing post delivery failures.
Limitation of Electrostatic Discharge (ESD) Testing
- Cannot find the exact location or source of a latent defect.
Industrial Applications of Electrostatic Discharge (ESD) Testing
- Most useful to semiconductor industries as semiconductors are easily damaged by ESDs.
- In testing of electrical, medical, packaging, and pharmaceutical devices.
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