ESD Association Advisory ESD ADV1.0-2017-DEFINITIONS-E2

electrostatic discharge (ESD)

The rapid, spontaneous transfer of electrostatic charge induced by a high electrostatic field. Note: Usually, the charge flows through a spark between two bodies at different electrostatic potentials as they approach one another. Details of such processes, such as the rate of the charge transfer, are described in specific electrostatic discharge models.

electrostatic discharge (ESD) control

See static control.

electrostatic discharge (ESD) ground

The point, electrodes, bus bar, metal strips, or other system of conductors that form a path from a statically charged person or object to ground.

electrostatic discharge (ESD) protective

A property of materials capable of one or more of the following: reducing the generation of static electricity, dissipating electrostatic charges over its surface or volume, or providing shielding from ESD or electrostatic fields.

electrostatic discharge (ESD) protective symbol

The graphics used to identify items that are specifically designed to provide electrostatic discharge protection.

electrostatic discharge (ESD) protective workstation

An area that is constructed and equipped with the necessary protective materials and equipment to limit damage to electrostatic discharge susceptible items handled therein.

electrostatic discharge (ESD) protective worksurface

A worksurface that dissipates electrostatic charge from materials placed on the surface or from the surface itself.

electrostatic discharge sensitivity (ESDS)

The ESD level that causes component failure.

NOTE: See also electrostatic discharge susceptibility.

electrostatic discharge (ESD) shield

A barrier or enclosure that limits the passage of current and attenuates an electromagnetic field resulting from an electrostatic discharge.

electrostatic discharge (ESD) spark testing

Testing performed with operating equipment or parts to determine their susceptibility to the transient electromagnetic fields produced by an air discharge event.

electrostatic discharge susceptibility (ESDS)

The propensity to be damaged by electrostatic discharge. (See also electrostatic discharge sensitivity).

electrostatic discharge susceptibility (ESDS) classification

The classification of items according to electrostatic discharge susceptibility voltage ranges. Note: There are various classification methods.

electrostatic discharge susceptibility (ESDS) symbol

The graphics placed on hardware, assemblies, and documentation for identification of electrostatic discharge susceptible items.

electrostatic discharge susceptible (ESDS) item

Electrical or electronic piece part, device, component, assembly, or equipment item that has some level of electrostatic discharge susceptibility.