2
PREPARATION FOR USE
Electrostatic Discharge (ESD) Protection
2-44 TP04300 Series Interface & Applications Manual
Electrostatic Discharge (ESD) Protection
Component damaging static electricity can be generated in the normal course of handling
sensitive electronic products, principally when two non-conductive surfaces are either rubbed
together or separated. Such an electrostatic discharge (ESD) can also be generated by the
discharge of compressed air on inert gases over a surface. Although ESD can be generated at
low air jet velocity, ESD is more likely to be generated increasingly at higher, sustained air jet
velocities.
The airflows through Temptronic ThermoStream pneumatic systems have been extensively
researched and designed to provide ionically neutral air (free of static charge) at the head air
nozzle output onto the DUT test fixture, so long as the guidelines presented in this manual are
implemented.
When evaluated with field meters and probes, the electric field, in the vicinity of the
temperature controlled gas discharged from the ThermoStream nozzle, does not indicate the
presence of significant or measurable number of charged particles in the jet.
The air flows through the TP04300 are fully grounded: from the air inlet to its air nozzle
output. Also, when the optional conductive shroud kit (for interfacing to the DUT) is used with
the standard (factory supplied) conductive metal thermal cap, an “ESD Protected Test
Environment” is assured.
It is not normally necessary to add air ionizer equipment to the fixture site to provide ionically
neutral air.
Note, however, that relative humidity has a significant impact on the generation of static
electricity, and that the next topic, “Moisture Protection” is a factor directly related to ESD
control.
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