1. The Two Core Testing Methods: Contact vs. Air Discharge
The standard outlines two primary methods for applying an electrostatic discharge to a device: the contact discharge method and the air discharge method. The choice between them depends on the type of surface being tested.
| Characteristic | Contact Discharge Method | Air Discharge Method |
| How it Works | The electrode of the test generator is held in direct contact with the equipment. The discharge is triggered by a switch inside the generator. | The charged electrode approaches the equipment until a spark jumps across the air gap, initiating the discharge. |
| Primary Use Case | This is the preferred method. It is applied to all accessible conductive surfaces of the equipment. Its direct application and internally-triggered discharge produce highly repeatable results, which is essential for standardized testing. | This method is used only when accessible surfaces are made of non-conducting, insulating materials. |
With the ‘how’ of testing established, the next logical question is ‘how much’ voltage is applied?