Electrostatic Discharge (ESD) is a major threat to electronic circuitry. ESD can be built-up and delivered to electronics through direct contact with people performing every day activities such as those listed in the table in this slide. The amount electrostatic voltage is dependent on the relative humidity of the air in that larger voltages are built-up when the humidity is low, which is typically during winter months. Integrated Circuits (IC) contained within the electronic circuitry are the most susceptible to being degraded or destroyed. Even internal ESD protection may not be enough, warranting supplemental protection that can be provided by Panasonic’s multi-layer ceramic varistors or ESD suppressors.

