ESD protection techniques for semiconductor devices

Abstract

Electrostatic discharges (ESD) are everywhere-in our homes, businesses and even at the manufacturers of the electronics we buy. The discharges cause failure of these electronic components. Presented here is a two pronged approach for ESD protection: reduce the likelihood of having an ESD event and improving the robustness of the devices. The first approach focuses on reducing the charge developed and controlling the redistribution of any charges that are developed. The second approach looks at ways to improve both the processes used to build electronics as well as the devices themselves.