I have built a large number of kits recently, probably dozens, often containing some kind of ic, often 555's for the early kits, but also little opamps, rdm5087 variants, lcd drivers, etc. over time I have also handled a number of logic ics, and always build my own computer.


I believe I have damaged a few very used ram boards with esd (an audible spark during installation followed by no longer working being my clue, and after was working before audible spark) , but never before have I damaged any component in any kit, and cpu, or any other component I've purchased.

The first time I try to build a switch mode power supply kit, I appear to have determined that two of the ic's responsible for switching to their corresponding voltages are not working. This kit is the pemenol breadboard kit: DIY Breadboard Power Supply Soldering Kit, PEMENOL Multi-Output LM2596 Power Module with 3.3V / 5V / 12V and Adjustable Output, Built-in Display and Switch for Electronics Projects, Labs and Makers - Amazon.com

12v and 5v never worked, I reflowed and reflowed to ensure good soldering, and no part is incorrectly installed. Following the voltages while on, I can trace 3.3v and var in a way that shows consistency, and on 12v I just get nothing from it ic output pin, and the same goes for the 5v (which I have also noticed gets so hot that there appears to be smoke, although it also seems a bit like an illusion. It is nevertheless very hot to the touch.)

Are these components particularly vulnerable to esd? I ate loads of pizza beforehand, which is always a bad idea if esd is a concern, you sort of don't want to be fully juiced with free carbs. I feel pretty confident at this point that the bad components are the controller ics. I am not confident that i damaged them, although I am open to the idea, I am also open to them having been damaged before, and arrived to me in the state they are in, and honestly think this is more likely.

I know that cpu's should be more fragile, but a lot of engineering has been done to protect them. In this case I am talking about lm2596-t-12 and tps5430 (esop-8) being doa (suspect) or perhaps damaged by me while soldering it all on. I did have to spend some time on the tps5430 to put those tiny pins on without bridging, although the lm2596-t-12 is a beast with huge long pins going through hole, so I did NOT heat this chip at all.

edit:::: funny .. it says right in the datasheet they have limited esd protection. hardly a smoking gun but still funny

 

All semiconductor devices are vulnerable to ESD.
Hence, there are standard handling procedures when manufacturing, storing, transporting, handling, assembling, all semiconductor components and assembled products.

 

All semiconductor devices are vulnerable to ESD.
Hence, there are standard handling procedures when manufacturing, storing, transporting, handling, assembling, all semiconductor components and assembled products.

right but some will be more than others. I have been extremely not careful often with lots and lots of components to no ill effect.

 

right but some will be more than others. I have been extremely not careful often with lots and lots of components to no ill effect.

That is a huge and dangerous misconception. Semiconductor structures can be compromised by ESD and still function properly. It could just be the origin of a catastrophic failure that results in millions of dollars in damage when the device fails out in the field.