D4x5 
Manual, 03/2007 Edition 
73 
ESD guidelines 
B
B.1  ESD definition 
What does ESD mean?  
All electronic modules are equipped with highly integrated modules or components. Because 
of the technology used, these electronic components are very sensitive to overvoltages and 
thus to discharge of static electricity.  
The acronym ESD has become the established designation for such Electrostatic Sensitive 
Devices. The ESD designation is used internationally to refer to electrostatic sensitive 
devices. 
Electrostatic sensitive devices are identified by the following symbol: 
 
Figure B-1  Symbol for identification of electrostatic sensitive devices 
 
 
 
Caution 
Electrostatic sensitive devices can be irreparably damaged by voltages that are far lower 
than anything a person can perceive. These voltages occur if you touch a component or the 
electrical connection of a module without having previously discharged any static from your 
body. Any damage that occurs to a module as a result of overvoltage is generally not 
recognized immediately and only comes to light after the equipment has been operating for 
some time.