Emerson Net Safety Millennium, Reference Manual

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6 Electrostatic sensitive device
Definition: Electrostatic discharge (ESD) is the transfer, between bodies, of an electrostatic
charge caused by direct contact or induced by an electrostatic field.
The most common cause of ESD is physical contact. Touching an object can cause a
discharge of electrostatic energy. If the charge is sufficient and occurs near electronic
components, it can damage or destroy those components. In some cases, damage is
instantaneous, and an immediate malfunction occurs. However, symptoms are not always
immediate—performance may be marginal or seemingly normal for an indefinite period of
time, followed by a sudden failure.
To eliminate potential ESD damage, review the following guidelines:
• Handle boards by the sides — taking care not to touch electronic components.
• Wear grounded wrist or foot straps, ESD shoes, or heel grounders to dissipate
unwanted static energy.
• Prior to handling boards, dispel any charge in your body or equipment by touching a
grounded metal surface.
• Ensure all components are transported and stored in ESD safe packaging.
• When returning boards, carefully package in the original carton and static protective
wrapping.
• Ensure all personnel are educated and trained in ESD control procedures.
• Clean off the housing with a damp cloth only.
In general, exercise accepted and proven precautions normally observed when handling
electrostatic sensitive devices.
Electrostatic sensitive device
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