Technical White Paper: Basics Of ESD Safety And Data Tracking

An ESD event occurs when an electrostatic charge rapidly transfers between two objects. This transfer is usually caused when two objects with a notable potential difference in electrical charge contact each other. However, ESD events can also happen when two objects close to one another create a highly-charged electrostatic field.

Static charges can accumulate at almost any stage of a manufacturing process. Any object that moves and is not a perfect conductor is susceptible. For example, imagine a line of parts moving past a plastic window during the manufacturing process. As the parts move, a static charge builds up on the window; when the charge reaches a certain level, it can arc and discharge to a grounded point. If the arc is intense enough, components may be damaged in the process.

Bar code readers are a vital tool in efficient manufacturing. Components can be labeled with bar codes for process and inventory tracking, and then the bar codes can be decoded and logged for automated updates. Printed circuit boards, integrated circuits, and other electrically sensitive components are often marked with very small bar codes and labels, making it difficult for readers to decode from a distance. When decoding at a distance is impossible, a new ESD risk element is introduced. Readers frequently collect static charge, and if they are brought into close proximity with a sensitive component, an ESD event could occur, potentially damaging the component.