61 35... Notes on ESD protection (Electro Static Discharge)

NOTE: Electrical components which are particularly sensitive to electrostatic discharge (electronic control units, sensors, etc.) are marked with the ESD warning symbol.

E -Electro

S -Static

D -Discharge

Statically charged persons can discharge by touching electrical components.

NOTE: Humans can only detect a discharge starting from a level of approx. 3000 V.

The danger threshold for electrical components already starts from a level of approx. 100 V.

Fig 1: Identifying Touching Electrical Components

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Example: Mechatronic control unit.

Fig 2: Identifying Mechatronic Control Unit

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

IMPORTANT: Do not touch pins or multi-pin connectors directly!

Touch electrical components by their housings only.

Fig 3: Identifying Danger Threshold For Electrical Components Already Starts

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

IMPORTANT: To prevent electrical components from being damaged or destroyed by electrostatic discharge, it is absolutely essential to comply with the following instructions:

When replacing electrical components, leave the replacement components in their original packaging until immediately before they are to be installed
If necessary, always return a removed component in its original packaging (always pack the component away immediately)
Read and comply with user information on using the associated ESD special tool 12 7 060 (anti-static mat)

Personal protective equipment:

Electrically conducting clothing (high wool content, antistatic shoes required).

These can primarily be identified by the logo on the side.

Fig 4: Identifying Electrically Conducting Antistatic Shoes

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.