Verification of snapback model by transient I-V measurement for circuit simulation of ESD response

It is demonstrated that if the compact model of a snapback-type device is calibrated using only pulsed I-V data, it may not correctly reproduce the device response to arbitrary electrostatic discharge (ESD) waveforms. Transient I-V measurements are demonstrated to improve the completeness of the device characterization and model verification. Given an accurately calibrated ESD compact model, circuit simulations may be used to identify device-tester interactions that have been reported to cause unexpected damage during ESD testing. The interaction between a snapback device and an ESD tester can be understood in the context of a relaxation oscillator.