Selecting an ESD Simulator
Selecting an ESD Simulator
There are many choices on the market when selecting an ESD Simulator. With different form factors, sizes, test levels, and requirements. These choices, many times, come at different costs. Selecting the best value is critical to saving money and time. So what is the best value for your application? There are some key specifications and some nice to have items that save you time and money.
What is involved with testing?
It is a mostly manual test where the user sets test levels and picks test points with some evaluation of the Equipment Under Test (EUT). Each point is tested for contact or air discharge applied as needed. Some ESD simulators can setup test routines to run through the test. But the routine needs to be set up first. If you are not testing the same EUT every time, this needs to be customized each time to the number of points. I find this slows down the testing process and does not add much value when a check-off sheet can have the same value and saves time. The actual test is not complex and does not take much time. ESD testing is an important test and needs to be set up and executed correctly to have valid results. Take your time.
- Does the simulator meet my minimum test requirements?
- Is it easy to use or require training?
- System Check for everyday use?
- Can fatigue set in from heavy use?
- Is control software needed or available?
- Battery operated or mains powered?
- Does it fit in my budget?
Test levels – ESD simulators regularly come in 2 different level outputs ~16kV or ~30kV. The 30kV simulator will meet all lower levels and gives you more flexibility for over-testing and meeting other standards. Most commercial (IEC/EN) testing requires 8kV or less. MIL is 15kV, and Automotive is 20kV. An additional margin is always suggested. The pulse integrity must also be considered to match the requirements of the standard. Not all ESD simulators are equal when it comes to pulse output.
Ease of use – it goes without saying that the instrument should be easily used. But how easy and intuitive is it? Key features should be single button toggles. Polarity +/-, test level; step through standard levels or scroll, repetition rate, and air/contact discharge all should be an easy goto button and nob. And if using a predefined program, this should easily be called up and executed. Touchpanel displays are nice in theory but do not help in ease of use for this application.
System Check – when using any instrument, it is vitally important for users to check the system and make sure it is functioning correctly. There are numerous ways this can be done. Ideally, it should be an easy and low cost. Having an internal check where all functions and levels are verified before use is the quickest and easiest. An alternative to this would be to test all levels into a target to make sure it is functioning correctly. Requiring expensive external equipment (target and O’scope) and takes time to evaluate.
Form Factor - one of the major designs of the simulator is how it will sit in your hand when performing testing. The pistol shape is the most common for a good reason. The center of gravity is over top of the hand, making it comfortable to use. The wand type or stick type has many drawbacks. The center of gravity is forward, making the user tend to droop the tip down when applying the test. Also, the grip is normally large, making it difficult to hold and easy to drop.
Weight – is another concern if your testing requires hours and hours of holding the ESD Simulator. This is not normal, but in this case, it is best to use a counterbalance tool pully. The counterbalance offsets the weight and allows for free movement. A system can easily be offered.
Handheld or Base unit – some units have a base unit where the handheld portion is tether too. Having an all in one simulator in hand does add an advantage of easily moving around the EUT and not having to move the base around. Reducing test time and making life easier.
Software – is an option on many systems; it can be useful for automated setups that allow for direct control of the simulator during the test. In normal testing, manual control at the ESD simulator in the user's hand is the only ideal solution. Having the option is good.
Power Source – Simulators can come in 2 different configurations with battery-powered or mains powered. And then the third option for battery-powered systems also can run off the mains power when needed. Battery power does have a lot of advantages for ease of use and mobility. But the batteries do eventually reduce their capacity over time and will require replacement. This is normally a minimum charge and can be easily replaced by the user or manufacture during calibration.
Budget – this, of course, is a major concern. Always one must find the best value for the application. Does it check off all the major concerns and is the price of value compared to others.
Conclusion:
We feel The Schlöder GmbH: SESD 216 and SESD 230 are offered as the best value on the market checking all the boxes for best performance and cost.
- Well-proven pulse repetition and performance
- Easy single-button parameter changes for quick-stepping through the test
- programing test routine possible
- using standard test routine
- Multi-point self-check system can be run quickly before each use
- Pistol form factor, well balanced
- Low weight
- Handheld, no base unit
- Software available as an option
- Battery-powered and can operate when plugged in
