Latch-up free RC-based NMOS ESD power clamp in HV use

摘要

An RC-based electrostatic discharge protection device provides an extended snapback trigger voltage range, thereby avoiding latch-up. Two parallel current discharge paths are provided between supply terminals during an electrostatic discharge event by virtue of an added external resistor. The first current discharge path includes body resistance of the protection device and the second current discharge path includes the external resistor.