Net Safety TL-MP-KIT, Reference Manual

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Reference Manual
September 2012 MAN-0131, Revision 2
14
Section 5 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—ESD! 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 metal shields—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.
•
Ensure all components are transported and stored in static 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
In general, exercise accepted and proven precautions normally observed when handling electrostatic
sensitive devices. A warning label is placed on the packaging, identifying product using electrostatic
sensitive semiconductor devices.