ESD Standards

When developing an ESD control program and setting up ESD protected areas (EPAs – Electrostatic Discharge Protected Areas), it is essential to comply with the relevant international standards and regulations. Only by consistently implementing these guidelines can sensitive electronic components be reliably protected from electrostatic discharge damage.

In this context, the latest version of DIN EN 61340-5-1 (Edition 2017-07) is particularly important. This standard applies to all activities involving electro static discharge sensitive devices (ESDS)—components that are vulnerable to damage caused by electrostatic discharges. The standard covers processes such as manufacturing, handling, assembling, installing, packaging, labeling, servicing, testing, and any other interaction with these components.

A critical aspect of the standard is the definition of sensitivity thresholds. It applies specifically to ESDS that are sensitive to discharges of 100 volts or more (Human Body Model – HBM), 200 volts (Charged Device Model – CDM), and 35 volts in the case of isolated conductors. This means that even very low levels of electrostatic voltage can be sufficient to cause irreversible damage or significantly impair the functionality of an electronic device.

For this reason, it is crucial to plan, implement, and continuously monitor appropriate ESD protection measures as early as possible. A standard-compliant ESD control program not only ensures safety during production and handling but also plays a vital role in overall quality assurance and can be an important factor in achieving industry certifications. By aligning with these standards, companies can significantly reduce failure rates, ensure product reliability, and demonstrate a high level of responsibility in the manufacturing and handling of sensitive electronic components.