ESD - The Scourge of Electronics

Overview

The book gives both a comprehensive introduction to ESD in electronics and an understanding of its implication

About this book

This book on electrostatic discharge phenomena is essentially a translation and update of a Swedish edition from 1992. The book is intended for people working with electronic circuits and equipments, in application and development. All personnel should be aware of the ESD-hazards, especially those responsible for quality. ESD-prevention is a part of TQM (Total Quality Management). The book is also usable for courses on the subject. Background It was soon realised that the MOS-circuits (MOS=Metal Oxide Semiconductor), which appeared in the beginning of the 1960-ties were sensitive to electrostatic discharges. But a severe accident accelerated the search for materials that do not generate electric charges. In April 1964 three people were working inside a satellite at Cape Kennedy Space Center. They suddenly screamed "we are burning". They died. The satellite incapsulation was covered with untreated plastics to protect against dust. When the plastics was pulled off both this and the metal incapsulating got charged. A discharge from the metal ignited inflammable parts of the satellite. Eleven more people were injured and the cost of the accident amounted to about 55 billions USD.

Table of contents
(12 chapters)

About the author

Sten Hellström is known for his work related to Electrostatic Discharge (ESD) and electromagnetic compatibility (EMC). He is associated with Relectronic-ESD-HB, a company based in Lidingö, Sweden, which specializes in providing services and products focused on ESD protection and management.

Hellström is recognized in the field for his expertise in ESD, having written and contributed to books, articles, and other materials aimed at helping industries manage and mitigate the risks of electrostatic discharge. His work is particularly valuable for engineers and manufacturers involved in designing electronics that must be protected from the damaging effects of ESD, which is crucial in fields like consumer electronics, automotive, and telecommunications.