Electrostatic Discharges (ESD): Rate of Rise of Currents and Radiated Electric Fields

Abstract

Electrostatic Discharge (ESD) is a major concern in Microelectromechanical Systems (MEMS) as well as in large systems such as in atmospheric electricity. We focus on ESD rate of rise of currents and the radiated electric fields, since both are directly connected to each other in that the radiated electric field is proportional to the rate of rise of ESD currents. In this paper we investigate two factors related to ESD and its indirect effects on electrical and electronic equipment and systems: (i) the shorter ESDs produce higher peak currents, while the waveshapes do not change much, and (ii) whether the ESD originates from the ground electrode, or from the live conductor, can make a significant difference to the resonances produced. Furthermore, we show that ESDs that emanate from the ungrounded electrode may produce bipolar electric ¯elds, and could pose a greater threat in indirect effects on electronic equipment.