TECH BRIEF ESD Protection Audio Input and Output Lines Background created by the electronic system. Sources include switching high Electronic systems are sensitive to both external and internal sources of overvoltage transients. This can be in the form of external Electro- Static Discharge (ESD) or internally generated Electrical Fast Transients (EFT). The purpose of this applica- tion brief is to detail Audio port protection. current loads (such as the fly back transformer), pump lasers or other harsh environments. The EFT can be introduced via the power supply or inductively coupled onto a signal line. Regardless of the method of introduction, the results may be soft or hard failures similar to ESD failures. The Solution The Problem In order to provide the IC with protection against ESD and EFT transients, the use of suppression Externally generated ESD pulses are introduced through the Audio jacks (headphone, microphone, RCA-type plugs, etc.) and travel through the connector onto the system board. Once on the board, they will propagate down the signal lines toward the integrated circuits(IC). Most ICs are designed with 2,000V of internal ESD protection. It is not uncommon to measure ESD transients in consumer environments over 8,000V.Without sufficient protec- tion, the Audio system can experience visual distortion or corrupted data. In addition, the IC could be permanently damaged rendering the whole system inoperable. products is recommended. The suppressors are installed between the signal line and the powe