Introducing the Desco Mini Zero Volt Monitor

The Mini Zero Volt Monitor (ZVM) is the first single station dual-wire continuous monitor from Desco. It continuously monitors the ground integrity and charge generation of one operator as well as the ground integrity for one ESD worksurface and one optional tool. Desco continuous monitors eliminate the need for periodic testing and record keeping of wrist straps. The Desco Mini ZVM carries the fastest monitor response time on the market.

The Mini ZVM utilizes constant test voltage signals for true continuous monitoring (versus pulsed or intermittent test signals) observing path-to-ground resistances including the operator lower limit detecting the presence of 1 megohm current limiting resistor. The Mini ZVM will also alarm if voltage on the operator is greater than ±2.5 VDC.

This product utilizes Desco’s patented Zero Volt Monitoring™ resistive loop technology and is appropriate for use in all applications including critical ESD sensitive applications such as disk drive manufacturing.

For the continuous monitor to observe the resistance, it sends a test signal. The voltage of this signal will be shared being placed on the operator. Desco’s patented Zero Volt Monitoring sends two test signals which are of equal and opposite polarity. The result is near zero voltage being placed on the operator. ZVM dual-polarity technology sends a low steady state DC test signal of positive 1.25 volts one direction and a test voltage of negative 1.25 volts the other direction.

The Desco Mini Zero Volt Monitor will alarm if it detects a voltage charge > ±2.5 volts on the operator making it an excellent choice when handling very sensitive ESD susceptible items. The operator test voltage, charge detect voltage and worksurface limit are user adjustable. Whether detecting out of limit resistance to ground from operator, worksurface or tool, there will be visual and audible alarms.

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Reducing Floor Maintenance Costs while Improving ESD Performance

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by Rick Cardinale, Bird Electronic

Bird Electronic, founded in 1942 by J. Raymond Bird, soon became a leader in radio frequency instrumentation. Today, Bird also has moved into digital instrumentation test equipment.

With the development of digital instrumentation came the increased need for controls to prevent ESD events. Improving ESD protection has been an ongoing process since the late 1980s. In 1997, the company determined that an automated PCB production line would be installed and that the entire manufacturing area should be protected against ESD.

This decision led to an evaluation of ESD protective flooring. In 1998, 20,000 square feet of conductive floor tile were installed in the main production area. To help brighten the area, white tile was selected. The floor resistance measured less than 1.0 × 10^6 ohms.

High-Cost Maintenance

A bright, high-gloss appearance was part of the selection criterion for the floor. While the electrical properties were unchanging, by 1999, the floor was starting to dull. It was being maintained like a regular tile floor. No waxes or finishes were used; however, the tile manufacturer did recommend using buffing pads.

After consulting with the tile manufacturer and the installer, maintenance was increased to sweeping clean and damp mopping two times per week and buffing once per month. Monthly floor maintenance was $1,700 per month, a $20,400 annual expenditure.

In late 1999, the maintenance schedule was modified to add more buffing since this was the only way to keep the floor shiny. The floor now was swept and damp mopped weekly and buffed twice per month. The floor was clean and shiny, but the cost went up 41% to $2,400 per month, a $28,800 annual expenditure.

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