Which statement is true regarding equipment that comes in contact with MOS devices?

Which statement is true regarding equipment that comes in contact with MOS devices?

• A. It must be grounded
• B. It must be insulated
• C. It must be painted
• D. It must be shielded

Answer: (A)

MOS devices are extremely sensitive to electrostatic discharge. If equipment touching them isn’t at the same electrical potential, a static charge can jump into the device and cause immediate or latent damage. Grounding the equipment provides a low-impedance path for any charge to flow to earth, keeping the contact surfaces and the device at the same potential and preventing discharge during handling. Insulation or painting doesn’t reliably stop charge buildup, and shielding alone doesn’t guarantee a proper discharge path. Grounded equipment is the reliable protection for MOS devices touching.

MOS devices are extremely sensitive to electrostatic discharge. If equipment touching them isn’t at the same electrical potential, a static charge can jump into the device and cause immediate or latent damage. Grounding the equipment provides a low-impedance path for any charge to flow to earth, keeping the contact surfaces and the device at the same potential and preventing discharge during handling. Insulation or painting doesn’t reliably stop charge buildup, and shielding alone doesn’t guarantee a proper discharge path. Grounded equipment is the reliable protection for MOS devices touching.