3
790 Static Monitor
In our ever-changing high tech world, a company’s
reputation for providing dependable products of excellent
quality is the one constant. Attention to fine detail is the key
to ensuring that a high tech company here today will be
enjoying the rewards of tomorrow. Among the many details
of meeting these demanding specifications is the control of
electrostatic discharge (ESD).
The High Cost of Static Discharge
Static is generated all around us through simple movements,
such as walking from one workstation to another, or pulling
tape from a dispenser. A static charge builds up, causing a
discharge, often called a static shock. Even a small
discharge can measure several hundred volts and damage
microelectronic components, which can cause these
components to fail when installed in computers, cell phones
and other devices. Semi-conductor devices damaged by
static electricity can impact yield rates and product
reliability if not properly handled. However, more costly
than the damaged goods a company distributes is the
damaged reputation it suffers with its customer base. The
fact is most ESD damage can be prevented through a static
control program which emphasizes constant monitoring to
assure peak performance. To help achieve that goal of
constant vigilance, 3M is pleased to announce the
development of the 3M™Model 790 Static Monitor.
Cost-effective Static Monitor
3M recognizes that while high tech companies have to act
quickly and wisely in their endeavor to establish a plan for
constant monitoring, they must do so with an eye toward the
bottom line. The 790 Monitor is a cost efficient unit that is
small, compact and versatile in its usage, and may be
mounted directly onto device handling equipment, testers,
and auto insertion equipment. An operator simply inserts a
dual conductor ground cord into one of the input jacks
located on the monitor while working on an integrated
circuit device handler. The 790 may also be mounted at
individual workstations, and at auto insertion equipment
used in contract manufacturing facilities.
Housed in static dissipative plastic, the 790 works by
measuring the voltage potential on a person referenced to
earth ground. The 790 uses a slide switch allowing the user
to select the voltage level necessary for the specific job
function being performed. For example, the 1V and 3V
levels are used for highly critical applications in disk dri ve
and wafer fabrication manufacturing, while the 6V and 9V
levels can be used for less sensitive work areas such as PCB
assembly. Included with the 790 is a mounting plate that
allows it to be permanently mounted at an ESD workstation
or directly to a device handler, tester, or auto insertion
equipment. Power is supplied to the 790 through an AC
adapter.
The 790 has two wrist strap input jacks located on its
front, which allows two operators to use one 790 monitor
unit at a workstation simultaneously. A green light indicates
that the unit is “on” and that all monitored connections are
within set limits. Two red lights and an audible alarm flash
and beep at different rates to indicate 3 separate alarm
conditions:
• Exceeding voltage level set limit
• Loss of contact between arm and wristband
• 790 disconnected from ground
These distinct alarms make it easy to identify which
operator and the type of fault condition. The audible alarm
can be adjusted to a low or high level to overcome
background noise from other equipment that may be in use
in the area. Ring terminals on the end of the 790’s ground
and chassis cords provide a permanent connection.
Product Features
• Audible and visible alarms
• Compact system
• Pre-select test voltages 1V, 3V, 6V, & 9V
• Static-dissipative plastic housing
• Mounts easily to ESD worksurface
• Regulatory Compliance: UL & CE
The 3M 790 Static Monitor system includes a mounting
plate with adhesive, an AC adapter, and two ground cords
with a two-wire connector.