euromicron subsidiary develops first EPA-certified workbench system
Special protected areas are established in the electrical and electronics production industry in order to prevent damage to sensitive components as a result of electrostatic discharge (ESD). However, the applicable regulations there are not always heeded. The workbench system Primus One from euromicron’s subsidiary ELABO eliminates multiple sources of error thanks to a means of self-control to protect against ESD and is the first system of its type to be awarded EPA certification.
Electrostatic discharge (ESD) is one of the biggest problems in the electrical and electronics production industry. Even discharges as low as 100 volts can destroy sensitive components or inflict enough preliminary damage to slash their service life. That means the only solution at places where ESD-sensitive components are produced and tested is to establish electrostatic protected areas (EPAs). There are strict standards relating to flooring, work aids and clothing in these protected zones; for example, only conductive and grounded materials are permitted. However, these regulations are not always observed, in most cases due to carelessness. The upshot: Products that have a short life and dissatisfied customers.
euromicron’s subsidiary ELABO, a leading vendor of networked workbench systems, is committed to eliminating a number of typical sources of error. It has therefore developed Primus One, the first workbench system that makes it impossible to circumvent regulations to prevent ESD. Unlike conventional workbench systems, Primus One cannot be put into operation if its user is not integrated correctly in the grounding circuit by means of an earthing wristband that is in working order or if there are faults on the workbench system itself. A warning indicates that it could not be put into operation. If faults occur on the wristband or bench during operation, a warning signal is likewise issued and the bench automatically switches itself off. The workbench system’s means of self-control to avoid damage by EPA is made possible by a monitoring unit between the earth leakage circuit-breaker and main switch. It detects whether the current flow complies with protection standards and the grounding circuit is closed and prevents the system from being connected to the network or shuts the connection down. Since that also means the working order of the earthing wristband is permanently monitored, the otherwise obligatory control by external testing equipment is no longer required.
Primus One is the first-ever workbench system to be awarded EPA certification for this innovative and unique solution to protect against ESD. Thomas Hoffmann from euromicron AG’s Executive Board was delighted: „Primus One is a fine example of the fact that we design our products and solutions precisely with the requirements of the respective industry in mind at all times and so offer our customers maximum security, convenience and service,” said Hoffmann. “Seals of quality like EPA certification confirm we’re on the right path.”
ELABO will present Primus One at electronica in Munich from November 11 to 14, 2014. Location: Hall A1, Stand 424.
About euromicron
euromicron AG is an all-round solution provider for communications, transport, data and security networks. euromicron’s network infrastructures integrate voice, video and data transport wirelessly, via copper cable and by means of fiber-optic technologies. euromicron builds leading applications, such as security, control, healthcare or surveillance systems, on the basis of these cutting-edge network infrastructures.
Founded on its expertise as a developer and producer of fiber-optic components, euromicron AG is a strongly growing, highly profitable group that is listed on the stock market, has a medium-sized character and focuses on operational growth, integration and further market penetration, internationalization and expansion. www.euromicron.de
About ELABO
Elabo is the innovative force in electrical engineering. We are the technology leader in developing and manufacturing intelligent measurement and test equipment. High-quality equipment, software, test systems and furniture are used by customers in education and training, research and development, production, quality assurance and service.
We demand the very highest standard of every product. Simple use, powerful application and great user benefits. The mission of Elabo’s products is to make everyday life easier so that people have time and space for their own ideas. www.elabo.de