ESDsuoja

ESD-suoja, or electrostatic discharge protection, refers to practices, materials, and equipment that prevent electrostatic discharges from damaging electronic components during handling, assembly, and storage. Electrostatic discharge can cause immediate failures or latent defects, increasing scrap, reducing yield, and degrading reliability.

ESD protection is essential in environments where sensitive electronics are manufactured, assembled, or serviced, including integrated circuits, LEDs, and precision connectors. It also applies to transport and storage, where static charges can build on clothing or packaging and discharge when touched.

Core elements include an ESD Protected Area (EPA) with grounded work surfaces and flooring, dissipative materials, and grounding devices such as wrist straps and compatible footwear. Handling tools and packaging should be ESD-safe to avoid charge generation.

Standards guiding ESD protection include IEC 61340, ANSI/ESD S20.20, and related EN standards. They define requirements for ESD control programs, personnel grounding, material testing, and audits. Tests typically measure resistance to ground, charge generation tendencies, and compliance checks of materials and equipment.

Implementation involves risk assessment, training, labeling, and ongoing verification. Common challenges include inadequate grounding, dry or fluctuating humidity, and improper cleaning of ESD-sensitive items. A successful ESD program coordinates controls across people, processes, and products to minimize discharges and protect device reliability.