AN3960 Datasheet, PDF (1/21 Pages) STMicroelectronics – ESD considerations for touch sensing applications

AN3960
Application note
ESD considerations for touch sensing applications
Introduction
Electrostatic discharge (ESD) is not a new phenomenon. It is often used to describe high
voltage that may produce permanent damage. ESD can be destructive and may leave a
sytem in an unknown state from which recovery is impossible. Fortunately, it can be
prevented by several methods. Some of these methods are cheap whilst some modify the
behavior of the equipment. The ideal situation is to balance both of these factors to obtain a
robust application which is not too expensive and which is unlikely to behave erratically.
This document describes ESD, its causes and risks. Several models and standards relating
to ESD simulation are outlined. Typical ESD protection techniques are explained. Test
results are presented for the STM8T142-EVAL evaluation board which was tested against
ESD events using some of the protection methods detailed in this application note.
October 2011
Doc ID 022082 Rev 1
1/21
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