Anti-Static, Dissipative and Conductive: What to Specify

Confirm the requirements for your actual component and process before ordering.

ESD packaging descriptions refer to different properties. A useful purchase specification identifies the property, test method and acceptance criteria instead of relying only on a marketing label.

Do not combine different properties into one number

Low charging describes charge generation during contact and separation. Conductive and dissipative classifications concern electrical resistance under a defined method. Discharge shielding concerns protection of the contents from an external discharge. Resistance alone does not establish every property.

Questions for a quotation

• Which property is required by the component-handling plan?
• Which method, units and acceptance criteria apply?
• Does the report cover the proposed material and finished configuration?
• Are conditioning, sampling and retesting requirements specified?

Avoid appearance-based substitution

Do not approve a substitute simply because its color or resin name matches an existing part. Send the existing specification and ask the supplier to document any differences for review. This applies to both packaging tubes and carrier tape.

Reference: EOS/ESD Association fundamentals. Classification limits should be taken from the applicable method and revision, not from this introductory article.