IEC 61000-4-2:2008

Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) - Part 4-2: Testing and measurement techniques - Electrostatic discharge immunity test

IEC 61000-4-2:2008 relates to the immunity requirements and test methods for electrical and electronic equipment subjected to static electricity discharges, from operators directly, and from personnel to adjacent objects. It additionally defines ranges of test levels which relate to different environmental and installation conditions and establishes test procedures. The object of IEC 61000-4-2:2008 is to establish a common and reproducible basis for evaluating the performance of electrical and electronic equipment when subjected to electrostatic discharges. In addition, it includes electrostatic discharges which may occur frompersonnel to objects near vital equipment. IEC 61000-4-2:2008 defines typical waveform of the discharge current, range of test levels, test equipment, test setup, test procedure, calibration procedure and measurement uncertainty. IEC 61000-4-2:2008 gives specifications for test performed in ;laboratories; and ;post-installation tests; performed on equipment in the final installation. This second edition cancels and replaces the first edition published in 1995, its amendment 1 (1998) and its amendment 2 (2000) and constitutes a technical revision. It has the status of a basic EMC publication in accordance with IEC Guide 107. The main changes with respect to the first edition of this standard and its amendments are the following:
- the specifications of the target have been extended up to 4 GHz. An example of target matching these requirements is also provided;
- information on radiated fields from human-metal discharge and from ESD generators is provided;
- measurement uncertainty considerations with examples of uncertainty budgets are given too.

Compatibilité électromagnétique (CEM) - Partie 4-2: Techniques d'essai et de mesure - Essai d'immunité aux décharges électrostatiques

La CEI 61000-4-2:2008 présente norme internationale se rapporte aux exigences et méthodes d'essais relatives à l'immunité des matériels électriques et électroniques, soumis à des décharges d'électricité statique produites directement par les opérateurs, et entre le personnel et des objets situés à proximité. Elle définit en outre des gammes de niveaux d'essais, qui correspondent à différentes conditions d'environnement et d'installation et elle établit des procédures d'essai. La CEI 61000-4-2:2008 a pour objet d'établir une base commune et reproductible pour l'évaluation des performances des matériels électriques et électroniques lorsqu'ils sont soumis à des décharges électrostatiques. Elle intègre également les décharges électrostatiques qui peuvent apparaître entre le personnel et des objets situés à proximité de matériels vitaux. La CEI 61000-4-2:2008 définit la forme d'onde type du courant de décharge, la gamme des niveaux d'essais, le matériel d'essai, le montage d'essai, la procédure d'essai, la procédure d'étalonnage et l'incertitude de mesure. La CEI 61000-4-2:2008 donne des spécifications pour les essais menés en "laboratoires" et "les essais après installation" réalisés sur le matériel dans l'installation finale. Cette deuxième édition annule et remplace la première édition publiée en 1995, son amendement 1 (1998) et son amendement 2 (2000) et constitue une révision technique. Elle a le statut d'une publication fondamentale en CEM conformément au Guide 107 de la CEI. Les modifications principales par rapport à la première édition de cette norme et ses amendements sont les suivantes:
- les spécifications de la cible ont été étendues jusqu'à 4 GHz. Un exemple de cible satisfaisant ces exigences est également fourni;
- de l'information sur les champs rayonnés par une décharge homme-métal et par les générateurs de DES est donnée;
- des considérations concernant les incertitudes de mesure avec des exemples de budgets d'incertitudes sont également données.

General Information

• Status: Published
• Publication Date: 08-Dec-2008
• ICS: 33.100.20 - Immunity
• Technical Committee: SC 77B - High frequency phenomena
• Drafting Committee: MT 12 - TC 77/SC 77B/MT 12
• Current Stage: DELPUB - Deleted Publication
• Start Date: 07-Mar-2025
• Completion Date: 04-May-2021

Relations

• Revises: IEC 61000-4-2:1995 - Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) - Part 4: Testing and measurement techniques - Section 2: Electrostatic discharge immunity test. Basic EMC Publication
• Effective Date: 05-Sep-2023
• Revises: IEC 61000-4-2:1995/AMD2:2000 - Amendment 2 - Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) - Part 4: Testing and measurement techniques - Section 2: Electrostatic discharge immunity test. Basic EMC Publication
• Effective Date: 05-Sep-2023
• Revised: IEC 61000-4-2:2025 - Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) - Part 4-2: Testing and measurement techniques - Electrostatic discharge immunity test
• Effective Date: 05-Sep-2023
• Revises: IEC 61000-4-2:1995/AMD1:1998 - Amendment 1 - Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) - Part 4: Testing and measurement techniques - Section 2: Electrostatic discharge immunity test. Basic EMC Publication
• Effective Date: 05-Sep-2023

Overview

IEC 61000-4-2:2008 is an internationally recognized standard published by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) that focuses on electromagnetic compatibility (EMC). Specifically, it addresses electrostatic discharge (ESD) immunity testing and measurement techniques for electrical and electronic equipment. This standard establishes the immunity requirements and test methods to evaluate equipment performance against static electricity discharges arising from direct contact by operators or nearby personnel.

As a comprehensive technical revision of the 1995 edition, IEC 61000-4-2:2008 introduces enhanced specifications, including extension of test targets up to 4 GHz and new guidance on measurement uncertainty. It serves as a fundamental EMC publication involved in ensuring equipment reliability and safety in varied environmental and installation conditions.

Key Topics

• Scope and Purpose
  Defines the immunity requirements against static discharge events and standardizes reproducible test procedures to assess the robustness of electronic devices when subjected to ESD.

• Test Levels
  Specifies different ranges of electrostatic discharge levels to simulate various real-world scenarios depending on environment and equipment usage.

• ESD Generator and Test Setup
  Details the characteristics, performance, and calibration of ESD generators used to apply controlled discharges during testing. Defines laboratory and post-installation test arrangements for both table-top and floor-standing equipment, including grounded and ungrounded configurations.

• Test Procedures
  Covers execution of contact and air discharge tests on equipment under test (EUT), including environmental and electromagnetic conditions for laboratory reference, and exercise routines for the EUT to simulate operational conditions.

• Evaluation and Reporting
  Provides guidelines for assessing the impact of ESD on equipment functionality and generating standardized test reports to document results and compliance.

• Measurement Uncertainty and Calibration
  Introduces examples of uncertainty budgets and calibration targets necessary for ensuring accuracy and repeatability of ESD testing.

• Radiated Fields from Discharges
  Discusses radiated electromagnetic fields arising from human-metal contacts and ESD generators, aiding in understanding secondary effects of static discharges.

Applications

IEC 61000-4-2:2008 is widely applicable across multiple industries where electrical and electronic components require reliable immunity to electrostatic discharges. Practical uses include:

• Consumer Electronics
  Ensuring smartphones, computers, and household appliances maintain functionality despite potential static shocks.

• Industrial Equipment
  Validating robustness of control systems, automation hardware, and instrumentation in manufacturing environments.

• Medical Devices
  Confirming immunity levels to protect sensitive medical instrumentation from malfunctions due to ESD events.

• Telecommunications
  Testing network devices and communication infrastructure components against electrostatic stress to prevent service interruptions.

• Automotive Electronics
  Assessing electronic control units (ECUs), infotainment systems, and sensor components for resilience to static discharges encountered during maintenance or use.

• Post-Installation Testing
  Provides procedures for verifying systems after installation in the actual operational environment, ensuring ongoing EMC compliance.

Related Standards

IEC 61000-4-2:2008 is part of the IEC 61000 series on electromagnetic compatibility, which includes:

• IEC 61000-4-3: Testing and measurement techniques – Radiated, radio-frequency, electromagnetic field immunity test
• IEC 61000-4-4: Testing and measurement techniques – Electrical fast transient/burst immunity test
• IEC 61000-4-6: Testing and measurement techniques – Immunity to conducted disturbances
• IEC 61000-4-11: Testing and measurement techniques – Voltage dips, short interruptions, and voltage variations immunity tests

These standards collectively provide a broad framework for EMC testing, ensuring electronic equipment meets regulatory and industry requirements for electromagnetic disturbance immunity.

---

By following IEC 61000-4-2:2008 guidelines, manufacturers and testing laboratories can reliably assess and enhance the ESD immunity of equipment, thereby improving product durability, safety, and regulatory compliance in a world increasingly reliant on sensitive electronic technologies.

Standards Content (Sample)

IEC 61000-4-2
Edition 2.0 2008-12
INTERNATIONAL
STANDARD
NORME
INTERNATIONALE
BASIC EMC PUBLICATION
PUBLICATION FONDAMENTALE EN CEM
Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) –
Part 4-2: Testing and measurement techniques – Electrostatic discharge
immunity test
Compatibilité électromagnétique (CEM) –
Partie 4-2: Techniques d'essai et de mesure – Essai d'immunité aux décharges
électrostatiques
All rights reserved. Unless otherwise specified, no part of this publication may be reproduced or utilized in any form or by
any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying and microfilm, without permission in writing from either IEC or
IEC's member National Committee in the country of the requester.
If you have any questions about IEC copyright or have an enquiry about obtaining additional rights to this publication,
please contact the address below or your local IEC member National Committee for further information.

Droits de reproduction réservés. Sauf indication contraire, aucune partie de cette publication ne peut être reproduite
ni utilisée sous quelque forme que ce soit et par aucun procédé, électronique ou mécanique, y compris la photocopie
et les microfilms, sans l'accord écrit de la CEI ou du Comité national de la CEI du pays du demandeur.
Si vous avez des questions sur le copyright de la CEI ou si vous désirez obtenir des droits supplémentaires sur cette
publication, utilisez les coordonnées ci-après ou contactez le Comité national de la CEI de votre pays de résidence.

IEC Central Office
3, rue de Varembé
CH-1211 Geneva 20
Switzerland
Email: [e-mail]
Web: www.iec.ch
About the IEC
The International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) is the leading global organization that prepares and publishes
International Standards for all electrical, electronic and related technologies.

About IEC publications
The technical content of IEC publications is kept under constant review by the IEC. Please make sure that you have the
latest edition, a corrigenda or an amendment might have been published.
ƒ Catalogue of IEC publications: www.iec.ch/searchpub
The IEC on-line Catalogue enables you to search by a variety of criteria (reference number, text, technical committee,…).
It also gives information on projects, withdrawn and replaced publications.
ƒ IEC Just Published: www.iec.ch/online_news/justpub
Stay up to date on all new IEC publications. Just Published details twice a month all new publications released. Available
on-line and also by email.
ƒ Electropedia: www.electropedia.org
The world's leading online dictionary of electronic and electrical terms containing more than 20 000 terms and definitions
in English and French, with equivalent terms in additional languages. Also known as the International Electrotechnical
Vocabulary online.
ƒ Customer Service Centre: www.iec.ch/webstore/custserv
If you wish to give us your feedback on this publication or need further assistance, please visit the Customer Service
Centre FAQ or contact us:
Email: [e-mail]
Tel.: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
A propos de la CEI
La Commission Electrotechnique Internationale (CEI) est la première organisation mondiale qui élabore et publie des
normes internationales pour tout ce qui a trait à l'électricité, à l'électronique et aux technologies apparentées.

A propos des publications CEI
Le contenu technique des publications de la CEI est constamment revu. Veuillez vous assurer que vous possédez
l’édition la plus récente, un corrigendum ou amendement peut avoir été publié.
ƒ Catalogue des publications de la CEI: www.iec.ch/searchpub/cur_fut-f.htm
Le Catalogue en-ligne de la CEI vous permet d’effectuer des recherches en utilisant différents critères (numéro de référence,
texte, comité d’études,…). Il donne aussi des informations sur les projets et les publications retirées ou remplacées.
ƒ Just Published CEI: www.iec.ch/online_news/justpub
Restez informé sur les nouvelles publications de la CEI. Just Published détaille deux fois par mois les nouvelles
publications parues. Disponible en-ligne et aussi par email.
ƒ Electropedia: www.electropedia.org
Le premier dictionnaire en ligne au monde de termes électroniques et électriques. Il contient plus de 20 000 termes et
définitions en anglais et en français, ainsi que les termes équivalents dans les langues additionnelles. Egalement appelé
Vocabulaire Electrotechnique International en ligne.
ƒ Service Clients: www.iec.ch/webstore/custserv/custserv_entry-f.htm
Si vous désirez nous donner des commentaires sur cette publication ou si vous avez des questions, visitez le FAQ du
Service clients ou contactez-nous:
Email: [e-mail]
Tél.: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
IEC 61000-4-2
Edition 2.0 2008-12
INTERNATIONAL
STANDARD
NORME
INTERNATIONALE
BASIC EMC PUBLICATION
PUBLICATION FONDAMENTALE EN CEM
Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) –
Part 4-2: Testing and measurement techniques – Electrostatic discharge
immunity test
Compatibilité électromagnétique (CEM) –
Partie 4-2: Techniques d'essai et de mesure – Essai d'immunité aux décharges
électrostatiques
INTERNATIONAL
ELECTROTECHNICAL
COMMISSION
COMMISSION
ELECTROTECHNIQUE
PRICE CODE
INTERNATIONALE
XB
CODE PRIX
ICS 33.100.20 ISBN 978-2-88910-372-0
– 2 – 61000-4-2 © IEC:2008
CONTENTS
FOREWORD.4
INTRODUCTION.6
1 Scope.7
2 Normative references .7
3 Terms and definitions .8
4 General .10
5 Test levels.10
6 Test generator.10
6.1 General .10
6.2 Characteristics and performance of the ESD generator .11
6.3 Verification of the ESD setup.14
7 Test setup .15
7.1 Test equipment .15
7.2 Test setup for tests performed in laboratories.15
7.2.1 Test requirements.15
7.2.2 Table-top equipment.16
7.2.3 Floor-standing equipment .17
7.2.4 Ungrounded equipment .18
7.3 Test setup for post-installation tests .22
8 Test procedure .23
8.1 Laboratory reference conditions .23
8.1.1 Environmental parameters.23
8.1.2 Climatic conditions .23
8.1.3 Electromagnetic conditions .24
8.2 EUT exercising.24
8.3 Execution of the test.24
8.3.1 Discharges to the EUT.24
8.3.2 Direct application of discharges to the EUT .24
8.3.3 Indirect application of the discharge .26
9 Evaluation of test results .27
10 Test report.27
Annex A (informative) Explanatory notes .28
Annex B (normative) Calibration of the current measurement system and
measurement of discharge current.33
Annex C (informative) Example of a calibration target meeting the requirements
of Annex B.39
Annex D (informative) Radiated fields from human metal discharge and ESD
generators .45
Annex E (informative) Measurement uncertainty (MU) considerations .55
Annex F (informative) Variation in test results and escalation strategy.62
Bibliography.63

Figure 1 – Simplified diagram of the ESD generator.11
Figure 2 – Ideal contact discharge current waveform at 4 kV .13
Figure 3 – Discharge electrodes of the ESD generator.14

61000-4-2 © IEC:2008 – 3 –
Figure 4 – Example of test set-up for table-top equipment, laboratory tests .17
Figure 5 – Example of test setup for floor-standing equipment, laboratory tests .18
Figure 6 – Example of a test setup for ungrounded table-top equipment .20
Figure 7 – Example of a test setup for ungrounded floor-standing equipment.21
Figure 8 – Example of test setup for floor-standing equipment, post-installation tests .23
Figure A.1 – Maximum values of electrostatic voltages to which operators may be
charged while in contact with the materials mentioned in Clause A.2 .29
Figure B.1 – Example of a target adapter line attached to current target .34
Figure B.2 – Example of a front side of a current target .34
Figure B.3 – Example of measurement of the insertion loss of a current target-
attenuator-cable chain .35
Figure B.4 – Circuit diagram to determine the low-frequency system transfer
impedance .36
Figure B.5 – Typical arrangement for calibration of ESD generator performance.38
Figure C.1 – Mechanical drawing of a coaxial target (drawing 1 of 5) .40
Figure C.2 – Mechanical drawing of a coaxial target (drawing 2 of 5) .41
Figure C.3 – Mechanical drawing of a coaxial target (drawing 3 of 5) .42
Figure C.4 – Mechanical drawing of a coaxial target (drawing 4 of 5) .43
Figure C.5 – Mechanical drawing of a coaxial target (drawing 5 of 5) .44
Figure D.1 – Electric field of a real human, holding metal, charged at 5 kV measured
at 0,1 m distance and for an arc length of 0,7 mm.48
Figure D.2 – Magnetic field of a real human, holding metal, charged at 5 kV, measured
at 0,1 m distance and for an arc length of approximately 0,5 mm .48
Figure D.3 – Semi-circle loop on the ground plane.49
Figure D.4 – Voltages induced in a semi-loop .50
Figure D.5 – Example of test setup to measure radiated ESD fields.50
Figure D.6 – Comparison between measured (solid line) and calculated numerically
(dot line) voltage drop on the loop for a distance of 45 cm .52
Figure D.7 – Comparison between calculated H field from measured data (solid line)
and H field calculated by numerical simulation (dotted line) for a distance of 45 cm .52
Figure D.8 – Structure illuminated by radiated fields and equivalent circuit .53
Figure D.9 – Radiated H fields .54

Table 1 – Test levels.10
Table 2 – General specifications .12
Table 3 – Contact discharge current waveform parameters .12
Table 4 – Cases for application of ESD on connectors .25
Table A.1 – Guideline for the selection of the test levels .30
Table B.1 – Contact discharge calibration procedure .37
Table E.1 – Example of uncertainty budget for ESD rise time calibration .59
Table E.2 – Example of uncertainty budget for ESD peak current calibration .60
Table E.3 – Example of uncertainty budget for ESD I , I calibration.61
30 60
– 4 – 61000-4-2 © IEC:2008
INTERNATIONAL ELECTROTECHNICAL COMMISSION
____________
ELECTROMAGNETIC COMPATIBILITY (EMC) –

Part 4-2: Testing and measurement techniques –
Electrostatic discharge immunity test

FOREWORD
1) The International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) is a worldwide organization for standardization comprising
all national electrotechnical committees (IEC National Committees). The object of IEC is to promote
international co-operation on all questions concerning standardization in the electrical and electronic fields. To
this end and in addition to other activities, IEC publishes International Standards, Technical Specifications,
Technical Reports, Publicly Available Specifications (PAS) and Guides (hereafter referred to as “IEC
Publication(s)”). Their preparation is entrusted to technical committees; any IEC National Committee interested
in the subject dealt with may participate in this preparatory work. International, governmental and non-
governmental organizations liaising with the IEC also participate in this preparation. IEC collaborates closely
with the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) in accordance with conditions determined by
agreement between the two organizations.
2) The formal decisions or agreements of IEC on technical matters express, as nearly as possible, an international
consensus of opinion on the relevant subjects since each technical committee has representation from all
interested IEC National Committees.
3) IEC Publications have the form of recommendations for international use and are accepted by IEC National
Committees in that sense. While all reasonable efforts are made to ensure that the technical content of IEC
Publications is accurate, IEC cannot be held responsible for the way in which they are used or for any
misinterpretation by any end user.
4) In order to promote international uniformity, IEC National Committees undertake to apply IEC Publications
transparently to the maximum extent possible in their national and regional publications. Any divergence
between any IEC Publication and the corresponding national or regional publication shall be clearly indicated in
the latter.
5) IEC provides no marking procedure to indicate its approval and cannot be rendered responsible for any
equipment declared to be in conformity with an IEC Publication.
6) All users should ensure that they have the latest edition of this publication.
7) No liability shall attach to IEC or its directors, employees, servants or agents including individual experts and
members of its technical committees and IEC National Committees for any personal injury, property damage or
other damage of any nature whatsoever, whether direct or indirect, or for costs (including legal fees) and
expenses arising out of the publication, use of, or reliance upon, this IEC Publication or any other IEC
Publications.
8) Attention is drawn to the Normative references cited in this publication. Use of the referenced publications is
indispensable for the correct application of this publication.
9) Attention is drawn to the possibility that some of the elements of this IEC Publication may be the subject of
patent rights. IEC shall not be held responsible for identifying any or all such patent rights.
International Standard IEC 61000-4-2 has been prepared by subcommittee 77B: High-
frequency phenomena, of IEC technical committee 77: Electromagnetic compatibility.
This second edition cancels and replaces the first edition published in 1995, its amendment 1
(1998) and its amendment 2 (2000) and constitutes a technical revision.
It forms Part 4-2 of IEC 61000. It has the status of a basic EMC publication in accordance
with IEC Guide 107.
The main changes with respect to the first edition of this standard and its amendments are the
following:
• the specifications of the target have been extended up to 4 GHz. An example of target
matching these requirements is also provided;

61000-4-2 © IEC:2008 – 5 –
• information on radiated fields from human-metal discharge and from ESD generators
is provided;
• measurement uncertainty considerations with examples of uncertainty budgets are
given too.
The text of this standard is based on the following documents:
FDIS Report on voting
77B/574/FDIS 77B/584/RVD
Full information on the voting for the approval of this standard can be found in the report on
voting indicated in the above table.
This publication has been drafted in accordance with the ISO/IEC Directives, Part 2.
A list of all parts of the IEC 61000 series, published under the general title Electromagnetic
compatibility (EMC), can be found on the IEC website.
The committee has decided that the contents of this publication will remain unchanged until
the maintenance result date indicated on the IEC web site under "http://webstore.iec.ch" in
the data related to the specific publication. At this date, the publication will be
• reconfirmed,
• withdrawn,
• replaced by a revised edition, or
• amended.
– 6 – 61000-4-2 © IEC:2008
INTRODUCTION
IEC 61000-4 is a part of the IEC 61000 series, according to the following structure:
Part 1: General
General consideration (introduction, fundamental principles)
Definitions, terminology
Part 2: Environment
Description of the environment
Classification of the environment
Compatibility levels
Part 3: Limits
Emission limits
Immunity limits (in so far as they do not fall under the responsibility of the product
committees)
Part 4: Testing and measurement techniques
Measurement techniques
Testing techniques
Part 5: Installation and mitigation guidelines
Installation guidelines
Mitigation methods and devices
Part 6: Generic standards
Part 9: Miscellaneous
Each part is further subdivided into several parts, published either as international standards
or as technical specifications or technical reports, some of which have already been published
as sections. Others will be published with the part number followed by a dash and a second
number identifying the subdivision (example: IEC 61000-6-1).
This part of IEC 61000 is an International Standard which gives immunity requirements and
test procedures related to electrostatic discharge.

61000-4-2 © IEC:2008 – 7 –
ELECTROMAGNETIC COMPATIBILITY (EMC) –

Part 4-2: Testing and measurement techniques –
Electrostatic discharge immunity test

1 Scope
This part of IEC 61000 relates to the immunity requirements and test methods for electrical
and electronic equipment subjected to static electricity discharges, from operators directly,
and from personnel to adjacent objects. It additionally defines ranges of test levels which
relate to different environmental and installation conditions and establishes test procedures.
The object of this standard is to establish a common and reproducible basis for evaluating the
performance of electrical and electronic equipment when subjected to electrostatic
discharges. In addition, it includes electrostatic discharges which may occur from personnel to
objects near vital equipment.
This standard defines:
– typical waveform of the discharge current;
– range of test levels;
– test equipment;
– test setup;
– test procedure;
– calibration procedure;
– measurement uncertainty.
This standard gives specifications for test performed in "laboratories" and "post-installation
tests" performed on equipment in the final installation.
This standard does not intend to specify the tests to be applied to particular apparatus or
systems. Its main aim is to give a general basic reference to all concerned product
committees of the IEC. The product committees (or users and manufacturers of equipment)
remain responsible for the appropriate choice of the tests and the severity level to be applied
to their equipment.
In order not to impede the task of coordination and standardization, the product committees or
users and manufacturers are strongly recommended to consider (in their future work or
revision of old standards) the adoption of the relevant immunity tests specified in this
standard.
2 Normative references
The following referenced documents are indispensable for the application of this document.
For dated references, only the edition cited applies. For undated references, the latest edition
of the referenced document (including any amendments) applies.
IEC 60050(161), International Electrotechnical Vocabulary (IEV) – Chapter 161:
Electromagnetic compatibility
IEC 60068-1, Environmental testing – Part 1: General and guidance

– 8 – 61000-4-2 © IEC:2008
3 Terms and definitions
For the purposes of this part of IEC 61000, the following terms and definitions apply and are
applicable to the restricted field of electrostatic discharge; not all of them are included in
IEC 60050(161) [IEV].
3.1
air discharge method
method of testing in which the charged electrode of the test generator is moved towards the
EUT until it touches the EUT
3.2
antistatic material
material exhibiting properties which minimize charge generation when rubbed against or
separated from the same or other similar materials
3.3
calibration
set of operations which establishes, by reference to standards, the relationship which exists,
under specified conditions, between an indication and a result of a measurement
NOTE 1 This term is based on the "uncertainty" approach.
NOTE 2 The relationship between the indications and the results of measurement can be expressed, in principle,
by a calibration diagram.
[IEV 311-01-09]
3.4
conformance test
test on a representative sample of the equipment with the objective of determining whether
the equipment, as designed and manufactured, can meet the requirements of this standard
3.5
contact discharge method
method of testing in which the electrode of the test generator is kept in contact with the EUT
or coupling plane and the discharge is actuated by the discharge switch within the generator
3.6
coupling plane
metal sheet or plate, to which discharges are applied to simulate electrostatic discharge to
objects adjacent to the EUT; HCP: Horizontal Coupling Plane; VCP: Vertical Coupling Plane
3.7
degradation (of performance)
undesired departure in the operational performance of any device, equipment or system from
its intended performance
NOTE The term "degradation" can apply to temporary or permanent malfunction.
[IEV 161-01-19]
3.8
direct application
application of the discharge directly to the EUT
3.9
electromagnetic compatibility (EMC)
ability of an equipment or system to function satisfactorily in its electromagnetic environment
without introducing intolerable electromagnetic disturbances to anything in that environment
[IEV 161-01-07]
61000-4-2 © IEC:2008 – 9 –
3.10
electrostatic discharge (ESD)
transfer of electric charge between bodies of different electrostatic potential in proximity or
through direct contact
[IEV 161-01-22]
3.11
energy storage capacitor
capacitor of the ESD-generator representing the capacity of a human body charged to the test
voltage value
NOTE This element may be provided as a discrete component or a distributed capacitance.
3.12
EUT
equipment under test
3.13
ground reference plane (GRP)
flat conductive surface whose potential is used as a common reference
[IEV 161-04-36]
3.14
holding time
interval of time within which the decrease of the test voltage due to leakage, prior to the
discharge, is not greater than 10 %
3.15
immunity (to a disturbance)
ability of a device, equipment or system to perform without degradation in the presence of an
electromagnetic disturbance
[IEV 161-01-20]
3.16
indirect application
application of the discharge to a coupling plane in the vicinity of the EUT to simulate
personnel discharge to objects which are adjacent to the EUT
3.17
rise time
interval of time between the instants at which the instantaneous value of a pulse first reaches
the specified lower and upper limits
NOTE Unless otherwise specified, the lower and upper values are fixed at 10 % and 90 % of the pulse magnitude.
[IEV 161-02-05, modified]
3.18
verification
set of operations which are used to check the test equipment system (e.g., the test generator
and the interconnecting cables) and to demonstrate that the test system is functioning
NOTE 1 The methods used for verification can be different from those used for calibration.
NOTE 2 For the purpose of this basic EMC standard this definition is different from the definition given in
IEV 311-01-13.
– 10 – 61000-4-2 © IEC:2008
4 General
This standard relates to equipment, systems, subsystems and peripherals which may be
involved in static electricity discharges owing to environmental and installation conditions,
such as low relative humidity, use of low-conductivity (artificial-fiber) carpets, vinyl garments,
etc., which may exist in all locations classified in standards relevant to electrical and
electronic equipment (for more detailed information, see Clause A.1).
NOTE From the technical point of view, the precise term for the phenomenon would be static electricity discharge.
However, the term electrostatic discharge (ESD) is widely used in the technical world and in technical literature.
Therefore, it has been decided to retain the term electrostatic discharge in the title of this standard.
5 Test levels
The preferred range of test levels for the ESD test is given in Table 1.
Contact discharge is the preferred test method. Air discharges shall be used where contact
discharge cannot be applied. Voltages for each test method are given in Table 1. The
voltages shown are different for each method due to the differing methods of test. This does
not imply that the test severity is equivalent between test methods.
Details concerning the various parameters which may influence the voltage to which the
human body may be charged are given in Clause A.2. Clause A.4 also contains examples of
the application of the test levels related to environmental (installation) classes.
For air discharge testing, the test shall be applied at all test levels in Table 1 up to and
including the specified test level. For contact discharge testing, the test shall be applied at the
specified test level only unless otherwise specified by product committees.
Further information is given in Clauses A.3, A.4 and A.5.
Table 1 – Test levels
Contact discharge Air discharge
Test voltage Test voltage
Level Level
kV kV
1 2 1 2
2 4 2 4
3 6 3 8
4 8 4 15
a
a
x Special x Special
a
"x" can be any level, above, below or in between the others. The level shall be specified in the
dedicated equipment specification. If higher voltages than those shown are specified, special test
equipment may be needed.
6 Test generator
6.1 General
The test generator consists, in its main parts, of
– charging resistor R ;
c
– energy-storage capacitor C ;
s
– distributed capacitance C ;
d
– discharge resistor R ;
d
– voltage indicator;
61000-4-2 © IEC:2008 – 11 –
– discharge switch;
– charge switch;
– interchangeable tips of the discharge electrode (see Figure 3);
– discharge return cable;
– power supply unit.
A simplified diagram of the ESD generator is given in Figure 1. Constructional details are not
given.
R R
d
c
Discharge tip
Charge switch
Discharge switch
DC HV
supply
C + C
s d
Discharge return
connection
NOTE 1 C is a distributed capacitance which exists between the generator and its surroundings.
d
NOTE 2 C + C has a typical value of 150 pF.
d s
NOTE 3 R has a typical value of 330 Ω.
d
Figure 1 – Simplified diagram of the ESD generator
The generator shall meet the requirements given in 6.2 when evaluated according to the
procedures in Annex B. Therefore, neither the diagram in Figure 1, nor the element values are
specified in detail.
6.2 Characteristics and performance of the ESD generator
The test generator shall meet the specifications given in Tables 2 and 3. Figure 2 shows an
ideal current waveform and the measurement points referred to in Tables 2 and 3.
Conformance with these specifications shall be demonstrated according to the methods
described in Annex B.
– 12 – 61000-4-2 © IEC:2008
Table 2 – General specifications
Parameters Values
Output voltage, contact discharge
At least 1 kV to 8 kV, nominal
mode (see NOTE 1)
Output voltage, air discharge mode At least 2 kV to 15 kV, nominal (see
(see NOTE 1) NOTE 3)
Tolerance of output voltage ±5 %
Polarity of output voltage Positive and negative
Holding time ≥5 s
Discharge mode of operation Single discharges (see NOTE 2)
NOTE 1 Open circuit voltage measured at the discharge electrode of the ESD
generator.
NOTE 2 The generator should be able to generate at a repetition rate of at
least 20 discharges per second for exploratory purposes.
NOTE 3 It is not necessary to use a generator with 15 kV air discharge
capability if the maximum test voltage to be used is lower.

Table 3 – Contact discharge current waveform parameters
First peak Rise time t Current Current
r
Indicated
current of discharge (±25 %) (±30 %) (±30 %)
Level
voltage
±15 % at 30 ns at 60 ns
ns
kV A A A
1 2 7,5 0,8 4 2
2 4 15 0,8 8 4
3 6 22,5 0,8 12 6
4 8 30 0,8 16 8
The reference point for measuring the time for the current at 30 ns and 60 ns is the instant when the current
st
first reaches 10 % of the 1 peak of the discharge current.
st
NOTE The rise time, t , is the time interval between 10 % and 90 % value of 1 peak current.
r
61000-4-2 © IEC:2008 – 13 –
I
p
10 % I
p
90 % I
p
I
I
10 % I
p
10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 100
t
r
Time  (ns)
IEC  2206/08
Figure 2 – Ideal contact discharge current waveform at 4 kV
The equation for the idealized waveform of Figure 2, I(t), is as follows:
n n
⎛ ⎞
⎛ t ⎞ t
⎜ ⎟ ⎜ ⎟
⎜ ⎟ ⎜ ⎟
τ ⎛ ⎞ τ ⎛ ⎞
I − t I − t
⎝ 1⎠ ⎝ 3⎠
1 2
⎜ ⎟ ⎜ ⎟
I()t = × × exp + × × exp
⎜ ⎟ ⎜ ⎟
n n
k τ k τ
1 ⎝ 2⎠ 2 ⎝ 4⎠
⎛ ⎞ ⎛ ⎞
t t
1+⎜ ⎟ ⎜ ⎟
1+
⎜ ⎟ ⎜ ⎟
τ τ
⎝ 1⎠ ⎝ 3⎠
where
⎛ 1/ n⎞
⎛ ⎞
⎜ τ nτ ⎟
1 2
⎜ ⎟
k = exp −
1 ⎜ ⎟
⎜ ⎟
τ τ
⎜ ⎟
2 ⎝ 1 ⎠
⎝ ⎠
⎛ 1/ n⎞
τ ⎛ nτ ⎞
⎜ ⎟
3 4
⎜ ⎟
k = exp −
⎜ ⎟
2 ⎜ ⎟
τ τ
⎜ ⎟
4 ⎝ ⎠
⎝ ⎠
and
τ = 1,1 ns; τ = 2 ns; τ = 12 ns; τ = 37 ns;

1 2 3 4
I = 16,6 A (at 4 kV); I = 9,3 A (at 4 kV);

1 2
n = 1,8.
The generator should be provided with means of preventing unintended radiated or conducted
emissions, either of pulse or continuous type, so as not to disturb the EUT or auxiliary test
equipment by parasitic effects (see Annex D).
The discharge electrodes shall conform to the shapes and dimensions shown in Figure 3. The
electrodes may be covered with insulated coatings, provided the discharge current waveform
specifications are met.
Current  (A)
– 14 – 61000-4-2 © IEC:2008
Body of the generator
∅12 ± 1
Interchangeable part (tip)
∅8 ± 1
50 ± 1
IEC  2207/08
3a) – Discharge electrode for air discharges
25° to 40°
∅12 ± 1
Sharp point
IEC  2208/08
3b) – Discharge electrode for contact discharges
Figure 3 – Discharge electrodes of the ESD generator
For the air discharge test method the same generator is used and the discharge switch has to
be closed. The generator shall be fitted with the round tip shown in Figure 3a). Because the
same ESD generator is used no further specifications for the air discharge method exist.
The discharge return cable of the test generator shall be (2 ± 0,05) m long, and constructed to
allow the generator to meet the waveform specification. The length of the discharge return
cable is measured from the ESD generator body to the end of the connecting point. It shall be
sufficiently insulated to prevent the flow of the discharge current to personnel or conducting
surfaces other than via its termination, during the ESD test.
The discharge return cable used for testing shall be the same or identical with the cable used
during calibration.
In cases where a 2 m length of the discharge return cable is insufficient, (e.g. for tall EUTs), a
length up to 3 m may be used. The waveform specification shall be met with the cable(s) used
during testing.
6.3 Verification of the ESD setup
The purpose of verification is to ensure that the ESD test setup is operating. The ESD test
setup includes:
– the ESD generator;
– the discharge return cable;
– the 470 kΩ bleeder resistors;
– the ground reference plane, and,
– all of the connections that form the discharge path.

61000-4-2 © IEC:2008 – 15 –
Examples for the ESD test setup are given in Figure 4 for table-top equipment and in Figure 5
for floor-mounted equipment.
To verify the proper ESD test setup, one verification method may be to observe that at low
voltage settings, a small spark is created during air discharge to the coupling plane and a
larger spark is created at higher settings. It is essential to verify the ground strip connection
and location prior to this verification.
Rationale: Since waveforms from ESD generators do not typically change in subtle ways (for
example, the rise time and duration of the waveform do not drift), the most likely ESD
generator failures would be that no voltage was delivered to the discharge electrode or that
no voltage control was present. Any of the cables, resistors or connections along the
discharge path may be damaged, loose or missing, resulting in no discharge.
It is recommended that the ESD test setup is verified prior to testing.
7 Test setup
7.1 Test equipment
The test setup consists of the test generator, EUT and auxiliary instrumentation necessary to
perform direct and indirect application of discharges to the EUT in the following manner:
a) contact discharge to the conductive surfaces and to coupling planes;
b) air discharge at insulating surfaces.
Two different types of tests can be distinguished:
– type (conformance) tests performed in laboratories;
– post installation tests performed on equipment in its final installed conditions.
The preferred test method is that of type tests performed in laboratories.
The EUT shall be arranged in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions for installation
(if any).
7.2 Test setup for tests performed in laboratories
7.2.1 Test requirements
The following requirements apply to tests performed in laboratories under environmental
reference conditions outlined in 8.1.
A ground reference plane (GRP) shall be provided on the floor of the laboratory. It shall be a
metallic sheet (copper or aluminum) of 0,25 mm minimum thickness; other metallic materials
may be used but they shall have at least 0,65 mm minimum thickness.
The ground reference plane (GRP) shall project beyond the EUT or the horizontal coupling
plane (when applicable) by at least 0,5 m on all sides, and shall be connected to the
protective grounding system.
Local safety regulations shall always be met.
The EUT shall be arranged and connected according to its functional requirements.
A distance of 0,8 m minimum shall be provided between the EUT and the walls of the
laboratory and any other metallic structure.

– 16 – 61000-4-2 © IEC:2008
The EUT and ESD generator (including any external power supply) shall be grounded in
accordance with their installation specifications. No additional grounding connections are
allowed.
The positioning of the power and signal cables shall be representative of installation practice.
The discharge return cable of the ESD generator shall be connected to the ground reference
plane. Only in cases where the length of the cable exceeds the length necessary to apply the
discharges to the selected points, the excess length shall, where possible, be placed non-
inductively off the ground reference plane. The discharge return cable shall not come closer
than 0,2 m to other conductive parts in the test setup except the ground reference plane.
NOTE 1 It is allowed to connect the discharge return cable to the metallic wall of the test laboratory provided that
wall is electrically bonded to the GRP.
The connection of the earth cables to the ground reference plane and all bondings shall be of
low impedance, for example by using mechanical clamping devices for high frequency
applications.
Where coupling planes are specified, for example to allow indirect application of the
discharge, they shall be constructed from a metallic sheet (copper or aluminum) of 0,25 mm
minimum in thickness (other metallic materials may be used but they shall have at least
0,65 mm minimum in thickness) and shall be connected to the GRP via a cable with a 470 kΩ
resistor located at each end. These resistors shall be capable of withstanding the discharge
voltage. The resistors and cables shall be insulated to avoid short circuits to the GRP when
the cable lies on the GRP.
NOTE 2 The 470 kΩ bleeder resistors which are contained in the grounding cables of the HCP and VCP (see
Figures 4 to 8) are used to prevent the charge applied to the planes disappearing instantly after the discharge of
the ESD generator to the plane. This increases the impact of the ESD event to the EUT. The resistors should be
capable of withstanding the maximum discharge voltage applied to the EUT plane during the test. They should be
positioned close to each end of the grounding cable in order to create a distributed resistance.
Additional specifications for the different types of equipment are given below.
7.2.2 Table-top equipment
The test setup shall consist of a non-conductive table, (0,8 ± 0,08) m high, standing on the
ground reference plane.
A horizontal coupling plane (HCP), (1,6 ± 0,02) m × (0,8 ± 0,02) m, shall be placed on the
table. The EUT and its cables shall be isolated from the coupling plane by an insulating
support (0,5 ± 0,05) mm in thickness.
NOTE It is recommended that the insulating properties are maintained.
If the EUT is too large to be located 0,1 m minimum from all sides of the HCP, an additional,
identical HCP shall be used, placed (0,3 ± 0,02) m from the first HCP. The table has to be
enlarged or two tables may be used. The HCPs shall not be bonded together, other than via
resistive cables to the GRP.
Any mounting feet associated with the EUT shall remain in place.
An example of the test setup for table-top equipment is given in Figure 4.

61000-4-2 © IEC:2008 – 17 –
Typical position for direct
discharge to EUT
Power supply
Typical position for indirect
Insulating
discharge to VCP
Typical position for indirect
support
discharge to HCP
Horizontal coupling plane
(HCP) 1,6 m × 0,8 m
Protective conductor
VCP
0,5 m × 0,5 m
0,1 m
Insulating
support
470 kΩ
0,1 m
470 kΩ
Power
supply
Ground reference
plane (GRP)
470 kΩ
470 kΩ
Non-conducting table
IEC  2209/08
Figure 4 – Example of test set-up for table-top equipment, laboratory tests
7.2.3 Floor-standing equipment
The EUT shall be isolated from the ground reference plane by an insulating support of 0,05 m
to 0,15 m thick. The EUT cables shall be isolated from the ground reference plane by an
insulating support of (0,5 ± 0,05) mm. This cable isolation shall extend beyond the edge of the
EUT isolation.
An example of the test setup for floor-standing equipment is given in Figure 5.

– 18 – 61000-4-2 © IEC:2008
Protective conductor
Indirect discharge by VCP
Typical position for
(including VCP carrier)
direct discharge
0,1 m
Typical position for indirect
discharge to VCP
VCP
Power cable
0,5 m × 0,5 m
Signal cables
470 kΩ
Power
supply
Insulating
support
470 kΩ
Power
supply
Ground reference
plane (GRP)
IEC  2210/08
Figure 5 – Example of test setup for floor-standing equipment, laboratory tests
Any mounting feet associated with the EUT shall remain in place.
7.2.4 Ungrounded equipment
7.2.4.1 General
The test setup described in this subclause is applicable to equipment or part(s) of equipment
whose installation specifications or design precludes connection to any grounding system.
This includes portable, battery-operated (internal and external) with or without charger
(ungrounded power cable) and double-insulated equipment (class II equipment).
Rationale: Ungrounded equipment, or ungrounded part(s) of equipment, cannot discharge
itself similarly to class I mains-supplied equipment. If the charge is not removed before the
next ESD pulse is applied, it is possible that the EUT or part(s) of the EUT be stressed up to

61000-4-2 © IEC:2008 – 19 –
twice the intended test voltage.
...