This document explains how STMicroelectronics protection devices are tested according to the IEC 61000-4-2 standard, which is used to test electrostatic discharge immunity. The document also answers frequently asked questions and describes the features and characteristics of the products.
This document is an application note addressed to technical engineers and designers, detailing how STMicroelectronics protection devices are tested against the IEC 61000-4-2 standard. It clarifies that while contact discharge is the preferred test method, air discharge is used for insulating surfaces, with specified levels typically reaching 8 kV for contact and 15 kV for air discharge.
The note describes the specific test benches adapted by STMicroelectronics for standalone protection devices, including the use of dedicated PCBs with SMA plugs for clamping voltage measurements. It outlines procedures for both air and contact discharge tests using rounded or sharp ESD gun tips, respectively, and details the equipment used to measure clamping voltage waveforms in contact mode at +8 kV.
According to the standard, contact discharge is the preferred test method.
The specified levels are most of the time 8 kV for contact discharge and 15 kV for air discharge.
The clamping voltage measurement is done in contact mode at +8 kV.