A new design for complete on-chip ESD protection

Abstract

The design of a novel compact Electrostatic Discharge (ESD) protection structure is reported. It provides complete ESD protection in all directions, i.e. positive/negative from I/O to power supply V/sub DD/, positive/negative from I/O to ground, and from V/sub DD/ to ground. This ultra-fast (t/sub 1//spl sim/0.16 nS) structure operates symmetrically. Measurements showed low holding voltage (/spl sim/2 V), low discharging impedance (/spl sim//spl Omega/), and adjustable triggering voltages. ESD tests passed 14 kV (HBM). Design prediction was achieved by comprehensive ESD simulation. It is particularly good for RF ICs.