In-situ ESD current sensing in a pick and place machine

This paper presents a method to measure current discharge directly in an assembly machine. Pre-tests with a multi-purpose current monitor are performed to show the general principle of the method. Furthermore, a novel current sensor is introduced, which can be installed directly into a manufacturing machine. Results from laboratory experiments and measurements in a state-of-the-art assembly machine show the capability of the method to improve and compare assembly machines as well as help to establish the link between voltages and currents.