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Electrostatic discharge (ESD)

Electrostatic discharge (ESD) is the flow of an electric current as a result of potential differences, which causes a short, high electric voltage pulse and can, under certain circumstances, permanently damage components sensitive to overvoltage. Materials with defined electrically conductive properties can discharge electrostatic charges in a controlled, permanent manner within a defined time. To protect against electrostatic discharge, these materials are classified according to their resistance properties and are designated as electrostatically dissipative or dissipative if their specific surface resistance lies between ≥ 105 and < 1011 Ω (DIN EN 61340-5-1).

In order to protect sensitive components from damage caused by ESD, especially during testing, our test fixtures, exchangeable kits, inline interchangeable kits and customising accessories use specialised ESD-compatible materials and paint to safely dissipate electrostatic charges.