is external protection still necessary?==> IC withstands verified 2kV !!!

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cross mob
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Hi,

according to its spec. the IC we intend to use has an internal chip rated to withstand 2kV ESD.
Shouldn’t this be enough to safeguard it against ESD?

thanks
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1 Reply
AntonG
Employee
Employee
Hi Flashlight,

short answer: most likely it's not enough.

long answer:
I guess 2kV you refer to was measured according to ANSI/ESDA/JEDEC JS-001 HBM (Human Body Model). This standard describes ESD events that can occur in controlled environment like lab. Basically, 2kV according to HBM says that your chip will survive assembly process.

For system level testing IEC61000-4-2 is generally used. The waveforms described by this standard have much faster rise times and higher currents at the same voltage levels. 2kV pulse according to IEC61000-4-2 bears 7.5 times as much energy as 2kV HBM. Well protected systems are able to withstand 15kV, or at least 8kV strike according to IEC61000-4-2. After all, just standing up from an office chair can get you charged to 18kV, and walking across a carpet in dry room to 35kV.

If ESD can be an issue in your system, you should consider using additional protection. If you need further assistance in choosing suitable device, feel free to ask here.

Regards,
Anton
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