System Level Testing for ESD Susceptibility

This chapter provides an overview of system level testing for immunity to electrostatic discharge (ESD), as performed in manufacturing facilities and independent test laboratories. A system is a completed unit, module, or subsystem that may be affected by an ESD event. The purpose of ESD testing electronic and electronically controlled products is to ensure survivability and continued operation of electronic products when exposed to static discharges in the environment. System level ESD testing can be divided into two main areas: testing for compliance and testing for product reliability. The world's most widely used standard for testing systems is IEC 61000-4-2. Contact mode testing is the preferred test method since it eliminates some of the variables that are inherent in air discharge testing. For compliance purposes, ESD testing is performed to all surfaces of a product that are accessible to the operator.