Fundamentals of Electrostatic Discharge-SUMMARY

For the electronics community, the rapid propagation of ESD standards and continuing change in the standards environment mean greater availability of the technical references that will help improve ESD Control Programs. There will be recommendations to help set up effective programs. There will also be test methods and specifications to help users of ESD control materials evaluate and select ESD control products that are applicable to their specific needs. Additionally, there will be guidelines for suppliers of ESD control products and materials to help them develop products that meet the real needs of their customers.

Standards will continue to fuel change in the international ESD community.

Principal ESD Standards

U.S. Military/Department of Defense
MIL-STD-1686: Electrostatic Discharge Control Program for Protection of Electrical and Electronic Parts, Assemblies and Equipment (Excluding Electrically Initiated Explosive Devices)

This military standard establishes requirements for ESD Control Programs. It applies to U.S. military agencies, contractors, subcontractors, suppliers, and vendors. It requires the establishment, implementation, and documentation of ESD control programs for static sensitive devices, but does NOT mandate or preclude the use of any specific ESD control materials, products, or procedures. It is being updated and converted to a commercial standard by the ESD Association. Although DOD has accepted the new ANSI/ESD S20.20 document as a successor, it has not yet taken action to cancel STD-1686

MIL-HBDK-263: Electrostatic Discharge Control Handbook for Protection of Electrical and Electronic Parts, Assemblies and Equipment (Excluding Electrically Initiated Explosive Devices) This document provides guidance, but NOT mandatory requirements, for the establishment and implementation of an electrostatic discharge control program in accordance with the requirements of MIL-STD-1686.

MIL-PRF 87893 — Workstation, Electrostatic Discharge (ESD) Control This document defines the requirements for ESD protective workstations.

MIL-PRF-81705—Barrier Materials, Flexible, Electrostatic Protective, Heat Sealable This document defines requirements for ESD protective flexible packaging materials.

MIL-STD-129—Marking for Shipment and Storage Covers procedures for marketing and labeling ESD sensitive items.