ESD Products

The Eclipse transmission line pulser (TLP) verifies ESD protection structure characteristics of semiconductors during the design phase. It provides pulses of selectable duration and very fast rise times, providing repeatable ESD event simulation. The system consists of a digital oscilloscope, pulse-current sources, and transmission-line simulators. Thermo KeyTek, Lowell, MA. 978-275-0800; www.thermokeytek.com.

An ESD simulator from Schaffner offers an elevated discharge voltage of 30 kV, exceeding the 25-kV level required by some ESD test standards. The Model NSG 438 is designed for applications that require testing with multiple R-C network values, typical for the automotive industry. The basic model comes with a 150-pF/300-V network in compliance with IEC/EN 61000-4-2. Schaffner EMC, Edison, NJ. 732-225-9533; www.schaffner.com.

By using the Process Environment Monitoring System (PEMS) software and a variety of daisy-chained sensors, you can check conditions along a production line. The PEMS software acts like a statistical process-control (SPC) monitor that collects information about EMI, ionization, grounding, humidity, temperature, and other characteristics at production workstations. You can set up the PEMS software to collect information in real time from as many as 1024 sensors and present the information in a variety of graphs and tables. Base price: $50,000 (includes sensors and system integration). Novx, San Jose, CA. 408-998-5555; www.novxcorp.com.

The 41220 Multi-Range Tester verifies outlet polarity and ground integrity in wrist straps, foot grounders, and dissipative shoes in compliance with the ANSI-Z41 standard. Its resistance ranges are 750 kΩ to 10 MΩ for wrist straps, 750 kΩ to 100 MΩ for foot grounders, and 750 kΩ to 1 GV for footwear. ESD Systems.com, Marlborough, MA. 508-485-7390; www.esdsystems.com.

A digital static meter from Electro-Tech Systems features a chopper-stabilized sensor for long-term measurements in both normal and ionized environments. With a measurement range of 0 to ±20 kV at a distance of 1 in., the 3.5-digit LCD meter provides 10-V resolution as well as polarity indication. The instrument can be connected to a strip-chart recorder or an oscilloscope with an optional molded cord assembly. Base price: $495. Electro-Tech Systems, Glenside, PA. 215-887-2196; www.electrotechsystems.com.

Designed to monitor charge accumulation during the manufacture of semiconductors, flat-panel displays, and electronic assemblies, Trek's Model 542-2 measures electrostatic voltage in the range of 0 to 20 kV. The unit identifies places where voltage has built up beyond limits you specify. It features a 5% reading accuracy, ±0.2% of full scale, over a distance of 30 to 60 mm. An RS-232 serial port permits computer-based control. Trek, Medina, NY. 585-798-3140; www.trekinc.com.

Statguard Floor Finish from Desco is now available in 2.5-gal and 5-gal bag-in-box packages. The floor finish is nontribo-charging and meets the requirements of ANSI/ESD S20.20. The company claims the boxes are lighter and easier to handle than pails. Desco, Chino, CA. 909-627-8178; www.desco.com.

3M Electrical Products has published a 12-page catalog covering its electrical, electronic, and EMI shielding tapes. The catalog lists 88 tapes and provides information about the company's adhesives and backings. 3M Electrical Products Div., Austin, TX. 800-815-6492; www.3M.com/elpd/oem.