Protection device placement

Tip / Sign in to post questions, reply, level up, and achieve exciting badges. Know more

cross mob
Not applicable
Where should the ESD protection device be located in the interface link to get best system ESD protection (according IEC61000-4-2)
What is better? Close to external connector where ESD strike enters the system or close to the I/Os of the IC (which should be protected).
0 Likes
1 Reply
Frank_Bialas
Employee
Employee
Hi there,
It is always better to place the TVS diode close to the external connector. So the ESD strike is shunted to solid GND as soon the ESD pulse enters the System.
By this
1) NO secondary ESD strike into adjacent lines is generated.
2) The PCB interface line between TVS diode on PCB and IC I/O built in ESD protection provides some isolation which can reduce the ESD stress @ the IC I/Os slightly.
3) No back and forward reflection of the ESD pulse on the interface line.
0 Likes