ESD Test

TAKO since 1979: ESD Test Bad Impact & Ruin To Yield Profit?

Introduction

Malaysia is one of Southeast Asia’s leading countries when it comes to industry development. It is particularly in the fields of electronics, electrical equipment, vehicles and medicine. For the quality and reliability, these sectors rely upon electronics products and components. In which, they are at great risk of damage or deterioration as a result of electrostatic discharge ESD.

ESD is a phenomenon in which two objects, with different electrical potentials, interact or near each other. It will cause an abrupt surge of electricity between them. ESD may be able to cause spark, overheating and short circuits that could have an effect on the performance or functionality of electronic devices. The worst, ESD may also be able to completely destroy them. To this end, it is essential to test electronic products and components for ESD immunity in Malaysia’s industry. This ensures that they are resistant to the effects of electrostatic discharge in their intended environment.

However, ESD testing is not a simple or straightforward task. It requires proper Electromagnetic Susceptibility (ESD) testing, specialized tools, techniques, and knowledgeable professionals. ESD assessments cannot be a generic or single-solution approach due to variances in products, components, applications, and environments. As such, relying on an experienced and competent partner is crucial.

In this blog post, we will identify if ESD test help to increase the manufacturing profit or will give a bad impact to profit.

ESD Test: What It Is?

ESD testing is an electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) test. The test simulates various electrostatic impacts that electronic products or components might experience either during transit or operation. ESD test determines whether a product is in compliance with its ESD protective area and procedures. Also, to determine whether it can operate without deterioration or degradation when exposed to ESD events. ESD testing is done both at the component/device level and at the system level, depending on the product and its field of use.

There are two main methods for ESD testing:

Contact discharge:
 is when the ESD simulator (also known as an ESD gun) directly touches the product or component under test (EUT or DUT). It delivers a predefined voltage pulse.

Air discharge:
 is when the ESD simulator is moved towards the EUT or DUT until the distance is small enough to cause a discharge through the air gap. Contact discharge is often preferred. It is more reproducible and less dependent on environmental factors. However, air discharge is more realistic, as it mimics the natural way that ESD occurs.

Which industries need an ESD Test?

Electrostatic discharge is a challenge for sectors. It is caused by a sudden transfer of electric current between two objects with different potentials. Examples of this include touching metal surfaces, lightning strikes or spark from a switch. This phenomenon may have a detrimental impact on the functionality and reliability of electricity and electronics components. It also poses a risk of fire, explosion and electrical shock to both workers’ safety and the sustainability of the environment.

Some of the industries or sectors in Malaysia that need ESD testing are:

  • Electronics and electrical: This sector is involved in the production and supply of a variety of electronics and energy devices. Example: computers, smartphones, television sets, cameras and appliances. ESD testing, which is carried out in accordance with internationally recognised ESD immunity standards. For example, IEC 610004-2. It may help to ensure the quality, safety and function of the vulnerable devices to ESD damage or failure.

  • Automotive: Various types of road vehicles are manufactured and assembled in this sector. It’s about vehicles, motorcycles, buses and trucks. This includes electronic components like engine control units, airbags, sensors and navigation systems. During the development, testing and manufacture of such components they are susceptible to electrical disturbance. Conducting ESD tests helps assess the performance and dependability of these modules and systems. Also ensuring compliance with internationally recognized standards for ESD resistance, such as ISO 106051.

  • Medical: This industry develops and provides various medical devices and equipment. For example, such as pacemakers, defibrillators, monitors, and scanners, that use electronic components and circuits. They are sensitive to ESD effects or errors. ESD testing can help to ensure the accuracy and safety of these devices and equipment. Also to comply with the international standards for ESD immunity, such as IEC 60601.

Why ESD Test Matters

The Cost of ESD Incidents

Financial Implications:
ESD-related damage can be financially crippling for businesses. The cost of replacing damaged electronic components, downtime, and potential loss of data can add up swiftly. Moreover, the impact may extend beyond immediate costs, affecting customer trust and brand reputation.

Operational Disruptions:
Imagine a manufacturing facility suddenly halting operations due to ESD-induced equipment failures. The downtime not only results in lost productivity. It also disrupts supply chains, leading to delayed deliveries and dissatisfied customers. Avoiding such disruptions is imperative for maintaining a competitive edge.

Benefits of ESD Test Implementation

ESD testing matters because it helps to ensure the quality, safety, and functionality of electronic products and components. ESD testing can help to:

  • Prevent costly damage or failure of electronic devices due to ESD
  • Reduce warranty claims, customer complaints, and product recalls due to ESD issues
  • Improve customer satisfaction and trust by delivering reliable and robust products
  • Meet regulatory requirements and standards for ESD immunity
  • Gain competitive advantage and market recognition by demonstrating ESD compliance

The Role of ESD Testing in Business

Identifying Vulnerabilities

ESD test is a process that simulates real-life situations by exposing electronic components and devices to carefully managed electrical discharges. Through this evaluation, organizations can pinpoint potential weaknesses in their gear and take preventative actions. This will help to minimize hazards before they become significant problems.

Demonstrate a Commitment

Adherence to industry standards and regulations is critical for businesses. Especially in sectors like electronics manufacturing and healthcare. ESD testing ensures compliance with these standards, demonstrating a commitment to quality and reliability.

ESD Test Standard & Compliance

ESD test is performed according to relevant product standards and ESD standards. It specifies the test levels, test methods, test equipment, and test procedures for different ESD testing scenarios. There are various ESD test standards and methods that businesses can follow, depending on their industry, application, and market.

 Some of the most common standards for ESD testing are:

  • IEC 61000-4-2: specifies requirements on the assessment of ESD resistance to a broad range of products. The products are widely marketed in domestic, business and industrial applications. It establishes four test levels for direct contact discharges and four test levels for air discharges. There are guidelines on how to set up and perform these tests. Also, on how to identify relevant test points, adhere to specific test sequences, and determine pass or fail criteria.
  • ISO 10605: This standard applies to all types of road vehicles, regardless of the propulsion system. It describes test procedures for evaluating both electronic modules on the bench and complete vehicles. In order to carry out the contact discharge tests; five voltage levels are specified in this document. It includes five levels for air discharge tests. It also sets out detailed specifications for the electrostatic discharge; testing setup, test points, test sequences and test criteria.

  • ANSI/ESDA/JEDEC JS-001: This standard establishes the procedure for testing, evaluating, and classifying components and microcircuits. The procedure is established according to their susceptibility to damage or degradation by exposure to a defined human body model (HBM) ESD. It defines six test levels for contact discharge (250 V, 500 V, 1 kV, 2 kV, 4 kV, and 8 kV). It also specifies the test setup, test points, test sequence, and test criteria for ESD testing.
  • ANSI/ESDA/JEDEC JS-002: This standard establishes the procedure for testing, evaluating, and classifying devices and microcircuits. The procedure is established according to their susceptibility to damage or degradation by exposure to a defined field-induced charged device model (CDM) ESD. It defines six test levels for contact discharge. This shall include the specification of specific test equipment and its configurations to be applied. It shall also provide for precise test points, sequence and evaluation criteria to be used in the testing process.

Meanwhile, some of the common ESD test methods are:

  • human body model (HBM)
  • machine model (MM)
  • charged device model (CDM)
  • system level test.

These standards and methods specify the parameters, procedures, and equipment for conducting ESD test. Such as the voltage level, discharge mode, test point, and test environment.

Importance of ESD Test

ESD testing is important for avoiding losses in profit’s factory. ESD can cause significant economic losses due to product damage, repair costs, warranty claims, customer dissatisfaction, and reputation damage. There is research conducted by the Electrostatic Discharge Association (ESDA). It is found, approximate yearly financial burden on the electronics industry globally due to ESD damage amounts to around $5 billion.

Conducting ESD tests during product development can minimize or mitigate these losses. It helps to guarantee that goods are manufactured to adhere to ESD resistance standards. Also, it guarantees the goods function dependably within their designated settings. Additionally, ESD testing can enhance both product quality and safety while meeting regulatory and consumer expectations.

Advantages of ESD test for businesses in Malaysia are:

1)ESD test can help businesses improve their product quality, customer satisfaction, and competitive advantage. It is done by ensuring that their electrical and electronic equipment can withstand ESD events and operate without deterioration or failure.

2) ESD test can help businesses reduce the costs of repair, replacement, and warranty. Also, enhance the safety, efficiency, and productivity of their operations.

3)ESD test can help businesses comply with the ESD test standards and methods that are required by their industry, application, and market. The standard examples such as IEC 61000-4-2, ISO 10605, MIL-STD-461G, and ANSI/ESD S20.201.

4)ESD test can help businesses gain recognition and trust from their customers, suppliers, and regulators. It is done by demonstrating their commitment to quality and reliability.

5)ESD test can help businesses access new markets and opportunities by meeting the ESD test requirements of different countries and regions.

ESD Test by TAKO Astatic Technology

To prevent or minimize the effects of ESD, it is important to conduct ESD test. One of the leading providers of ESD test products, services, and consultation in Malaysia is TAKO Astatic technology. TAKO has specializes in ESD, medical packaging, and cleanroom products since 1979.


ESD Test

TAKO Astatic technology offers a comprehensive range of ESD test solutions, such as:
– surface resistivity meter
– wrist strap and footwear tester
– electrostatic voltmeter
– nanocoulomb meter

TAKO Astatic technology also provides ESD test training, audit, and evaluation, as well as ESD project management and consultancy.

ESD Test
ESD Wrist Strap
ESD Test
ESD Test

TAKO’s ESD Test Projects

Some examples of manufacturing businesses that use ESD test from TAKO Astatic technology are:

  • Sony EMCS, Bangi: This is a manufacturing plant of Sony Corporation. It is a Japanese multinational conglomerate that produces various electrical and electronic products. For example, cameras, televisions, headphones, and gaming consoles. Sony EMCS, Bangi uses ESD test from TAKO Astatic technology to ensure the quality and reliability of their products. Also, to prevent ESD damage to their equipment and workers.

  • Honda Alor Gajah Plant: This is a manufacturing plant of Honda Malaysia. A subsidiary of Honda Motor Company, a Japanese multinational corporation that produces automobiles, motorcycles, and power equipment. Honda Alor Gajah Plant uses ESD test to comply with the ESD test standards and methods that are required by industry and market.
ESD Test
  • Petronas HQ Tower, Kota Kinabalu, Petronas I.N.S.T.E.P, Terengganu & Petronas Research Center, Gurun: These are some of the facilities of Petronas, a Malaysian state-owned oil and gas company that operates in various sectors. Such as exploration and production, refining and marketing, gas and power, and petrochemicals. Petronas uses ESD test from TAKO Astatic technology to improve the safety, efficiency, and productivity of their operations. Also, to reduce the costs of repair, replacement, and warranty.

Conclusion

Electrostatic discharge ESD testing is an essential assessment procedure, which assesses a product’s ability to resist electrical phenomena in operation. This important test evaluates whether a device is able to operate properly after exposure to static currents which are common in daily life.

Consequently, ESD testing should be carried out at a timely stage during the product development cycle. This must be conducted by trained and qualified professionals using specially designed and precise calibration equipment. For further information on TAKO Astatic Technology’s offerings and how they can benefit your business through ESD testing, refer to the provided resources.: