What types of damage can electrostatic discharge cause?

Electrostatic discharge (ESD) can cause a wide range of damage to electronic devices, making the recognition of the potential harm it poses very important for technicians. When an electrostatic charge is released, it can induce a very high voltage that can damage electronic components in several ways.

Total catastrophic failure refers to instances where the device is permanently rendered inoperable due to the discharge. Delayed failure indicates that the immediate effects of ESD may not present until later when the component degrades over time, leading to eventual malfunction. Furthermore, ESD can lead to degradation, which means that the device may continue to function, but its performance and reliability will be significantly compromised.

Understanding these effects emphasizes the importance of proper handling and protective measures, such as using antistatic wrist straps, mats, and proper storage procedures to mitigate the risk of ESD. This knowledge equips technicians with a fuller understanding of how to safeguard electronic components during handling and assembly, reinforcing the critical nature of preventing ESD in aerospace and other sensitive environments.