Effect of ESD
It is a known fact that ESD is an invisible destructive force that disrupts the normal functioning of electronic devices. It reduces the reliability and life of systems. ESD causes electronic shocks that are harmless and invisible to humans. However, only this has the potential to render electronic devices and parts unusable suddenly or over time. Basically, there are two types of ESD-induced damage or defect. In the case of catastrophic damage, the device or component fails immediately and the damage is permanent. The second type of damage is the latent defect, in which case the electronic device continues to function after an ESD related event, but the damage is a delayed process and the effectiveness of the components degrades over time. In such cases, since the parts continue to perform for a certain period of time, it is not easy to detect damaged areas.
The importance of ESD products
Any electronic device or component is prone to breakdown due to exposure to ESD, which is the sudden flow of electricity between two electrically charged objects. This happens when differently charged objects rub against each other, often producing a visible spark. Even a simple movement on the bench is sufficient to generate ESD, which can damage the sensitive electronic components of the device. It can also affect the functionality and quality of electronic products and components. For this reason, ESD protection products are of great importance to prevent static electricity build-up in electronic items. Their main function is to reduce the risk of damage to ESD sensitive devices. These protection products are very effective in reducing device failure and increase the reliability and lifetime of sensitive electronics.
Tips for controlling and preventing ESD
Listed below are some precautionary measures that will help reduce as much as possible the damage caused by ESD during the manufacture, assembly and repair of electronic devices.
Wearing a grounded wrist strap is highly recommended to reduce the risk of generating an ESD event. It must be worn correctly with proper skin contact to reduce contact resistance. Because it is connected to the ground, the wrist strap will quickly protect any load generated by the body. It greatly protects sensitive components from ESD damage.
Repair or manufacture of components must be done in an ESD safe and clean room environment.
The use of ESD-protected mats on desks or workbenches will dissipate static electricity. These mats are designed with carbon fibers that conduct electricity. As a result, ESD is not very active on the surface of the mat, which neutralizes it.
For very sensitive EPAs, you may want workers to wear anti-static clothing to prevent ESD shock and protect sensitive components. Such garments include t-shirts, sweatshirts, conductive shoes, soles, high-visibility jackets, etc.
It is best not to use jewelry and other static generating accessories in this area. This precaution will help reduce the accumulation of ESD.
The use of anti-static tools and equipment prevents the conduction of electric charge.
Avoid working on electronic devices during an electrical storm as this can increase the risks of ESD.
Anti-static bags are effective in storing equipment in a safe environment. These bags are also used to pack PCBs in transit.
ESD air ionizers remove static charge and particulate matter from the air that cannot be grounded from the workstation.
