This final section provides the objective criteria for judging the outcome of the ESD stress test. A device’s performance against these criteria is not subjective; it is a clear pass/fail determination that dictates its official ESD sensitivity classification.

Definition of Failure

A part is defined as a failure if, after exposure to ESD pulses, it no longer meets the device data sheet requirements. This determination is made by performing post-stress parametric and functional testing and comparing the results to the pre-stress baseline data.

ESD Sensitivity Classification

All samples used must meet the test requirements of section 4, up to a particular voltage level, in order for the part to be classified as meeting a particular sensitivity classification. Based on the highest voltage level passed, devices shall be classified according to the following levels:

• CLASS A: Any part that fails after exposure to an ESD pulse of 200 volts or less.
• CLASS B: Any part that passes after exposure to an ESD pulse of 200 volts, but fails after exposure to an ESD pulse of 400 volts.
• CLASS C: Any part that passes after exposure to an ESD pulse of 400 volts.

Adherence to these criteria is mandatory for ensuring the interchangeability and reliability of ESD sensitivity classifications across the industry.