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Reference Manual
MAN-0081, Revision 4 July 2014
17
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. 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.
• Prior to touching the painted enclosure surface or non-metallic labels, dispel any charge in your
body or equipment by touching a grounded metal surface to prevent the generation of a spark.
• 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.