Creating an ESD (Or Lightning!) Detector! -- Episode 669

vijeth_ds — Fri, 13 Jun 2025 14:16:41 GMT

Current Revision posted to Documents by vijeth_ds on 6/13/2025 2:16:41 PM

Clem builds a custom ESD detector to identify electrostatic discharge events that can interfere with electronic circuits and cause unexpected glitches. Based on a proven design by Charles Wenzel, the detector outputs a logic-safe pulse that can trigger test equipment like oscilloscopes, helping correlate ESD with system faults. The video covers circuit design, case integration using EMI-shielded enclosures, and real-world testing scenarios. Download the design files and see how you can build your own low-cost debugging tool.

Watch the Episode

https://youtu.be/lWy5UBRMFgI

Understanding the ESD Detector

Electrostatic discharge (ESD) is a common issue in electronics, capable of causing unexpected glitches or disruptions in circuits. In his latest project, Clem shares a practical approach to addressing this challenge by building a custom ESD detector. The device helps identify and correlate ESD events, such as static discharges or motor firings, with system anomalies, making it a valuable tool for debugging.
Understanding the ESD Detector

The Circuit Design

The ESD detector Clem built is designed to monitor for electrostatic discharge events and output a signal when one occurs. This signal can trigger test equipment like oscilloscopes, allowing users to observe the exact behaviour of a system during an ESD event. This functionality is especially useful for identifying issues in systems where timing and signal behaviour are critical.
The Circuit Design

Clem based his ESD detector on a design by Charles Wenzel of Techlib.com. Wenzel’s circuit is known for its sensitivity and reliability, which makes it a strong foundation for detecting subtle ESD events. Clem obtained permission from Wenzel to adapt and use the design, emphasising the importance of adhering to licensing terms and respecting intellectual property. This step ensures ethical practices and fosters collaboration within the electronics community.
Demonstrating the Detector

Demonstrating the Detector

In his video, Clem tests the ESD detector in several scenarios, demonstrating its utility in real-world applications. Examples include:

Detecting static discharges from common sources.
Monitoring motor firings to identify noise-induced disruptions.
Capturing the precise timing of glitches that align with ESD events.

These demonstrations show how the detector can help isolate and address problems that might otherwise remain un-diagnosed.
Importance of Licensing and Attribution

Importance of Licensing and Attribution

Clem also discusses the broader implications of using existing designs and materials in DIY projects. By seeking permission to use Wenzel’s circuit and crediting the original creator, Clem reinforces the importance of following licensing requirements. This practice not only respects the work of others but also contributes to a more collaborative and innovative community.
Why Build an ESD Detector?

Why Build an ESD Detector?

For those working with electronics, ESD-related issues can be difficult to identify and resolve. An ESD detector provides a straightforward way to monitor and analyse these events, making it a useful tool for debugging complex systems. Clem’s project offers a clear, practical solution to a common problem, along with insights into the importance of responsible project development.

Watch the Full Build

For a detailed walk-through and demonstration, watch Clem’s video to learn more about building and using an ESD detector in your own projects.

Supporting Files and Links

Wenzel Detector Original Circuit
New Lightning Dietector by Charles Wenzel
Supporting files for Episode 669 of element14 presents

Bill of Materials

Product Name	Manufacturer	Quantity	Buy Kit
HAMMOND Metallgehäuse, S, Aluminium, stranggepresst, 54.61 mm, 103.89 mm, 120.14 mm, IP54	Hammond MFG	1	Buy Now
MULTICOMP PRO Schallwandler, Durchsteckmontage, 1V bis 2V, 10mA, 80dB, 2.048kHz	MULTICOMP PRO	1	Buy Now
PANASONIC Elektrolytkondensator, 10 µF, 63 V, ± 20%, Radial bedrahtet, 5000 Stunden bei 105°C, Polarisiert	PANASONIC	1	Buy Now
MULTICOMP PRO Chipwiderstand, Oberflächenmontage, 82 kohm, ± 5%, 100 mW, 0603 [Metrisch 1608]	MULTICOMP PRO	1	Buy Now
ONSEMI Kleinsignaldiode, Einfach, 100 V, 200 mA, 1 V, 4 ns, 4 A	ON SEMI	1	Buy Now
MULTICOMP PRO Chipwiderstand, Oberflächenmontage, 270 kohm, ± 1%, 100 mW, 0603 [Metrisch 1608]	MULTICOMP PRO	1	Buy Now
ATTINY412-SSNR	Microchip	1	Buy Now
BOURNS Induktivität, radial bedrahtet, Baureihe RLB, 10mH, 34mA, 39 Ohm, ± 10%	BOURNS	1	Buy Now
MULTICOMP PRO Keramikvielschichtkondensator, SMD, 120 pF, 50 V, 0603 [Metrisch: 1608], ± 2%, C0G / NP0	MULTICOMP PRO	1	Buy Now
MULTICOMP PRO Bipolarer Einzeltransistor (BJT), NPN, 40 V, 600 mA, 625 mW, TO-92, Durchsteckmontage	MULTICOMP PRO	1	Buy Now
MULTICOMP PRO Bipolarer Einzeltransistor (BJT), PNP, 40 V, 600 mA, 625 mW, TO-92, Durchsteckmontage	MULTICOMP PRO	1	Buy Now
MULTICOMP PRO Keramikvielschichtkondensator, SMD, 10 pF, 50 V, 0603 [Metrisch: 1608], ± 0.5pF, C0G / NP0	MULTICOMP PRO	1	Buy Now
KEMET Keramikvielschichtkondensator, SMD, AEC-Q200, 1000 pF, 50 V, 0603 [Metrisch: 1608], ± 5%	KEMET	1	Buy Now
MICROCHIP LDO-Festspannungsregler, 2.1V bis 6V, 210mV Dropout, 5Vout, 500mAout, SOT-223-3	Microchip	1	Buy Now
MULTICOMP PRO Chipwiderstand, Oberflächenmontage, 1 Mohm, ± 1%, 100 mW, 0603 [Metrisch 1608]	MULTICOMP PRO	1	Buy Now
MULTICOMP PRO Chipwiderstand, Oberflächenmontage, 3.9 kohm, ± 1%, 100 mW, 0603 [Metrisch 1608]	MULTICOMP PRO	1	Buy Now
PANASONIC Elektrolytkondensator, 100 µF, 16 V, ± 20%, Radial bedrahtet, 2000 Stunden bei 85°C, Polarisiert	PANASONIC	1	Buy Now
Additional Parts
BNC connectors Panel mount
Power switch
BNC antenna

element14 presents | About Clem | Project Videos

Tags: static electricity detector, emc testing, esd troubleshooting, esd detector, electrostatic discharge detector, esd detection circuit, esd in electronics, diy esd tester, emi shielding enclosure, element14 presents, charles wenzel esd circuit, attiny412 project, electronics debugging tool, esd oscilloscope trigger, friday_release, custom test equipment

Creating an ESD (Or Lightning!) Detector! -- Episode 669

cstanton — Fri, 13 Jun 2025 08:32:38 GMT

Revision 6 posted to Documents by cstanton on 6/13/2025 8:32:38 AM

Watch the Episode

https://youtu.be/lWy5UBRMFgI

Understanding the ESD Detector

The Circuit Design

Demonstrating the Detector

In his video, Clem tests the ESD detector in several scenarios, demonstrating its utility in real-world applications. Examples include:

Detecting static discharges from common sources.
Monitoring motor firings to identify noise-induced disruptions.
Capturing the precise timing of glitches that align with ESD events.

These demonstrations show how the detector can help isolate and address problems that might otherwise remain un-diagnosed.
Importance of Licensing and Attribution

Importance of Licensing and Attribution

Why Build an ESD Detector?

Watch the Full Build

For a detailed walk-through and demonstration, watch Clem’s video to learn more about building and using an ESD detector in your own projects.

Supporting Files and Links

Wenzel Detector Original Circuit
New Lightning Dietector by Charles Wenzel
Supporting files for Episode 669 of element14 presents

Bill of Materials

Product Name	Manufacturer	Quantity	Buy Kit
HAMMOND Metallgehäuse, S, Aluminium, stranggepresst, 54.61 mm, 103.89 mm, 120.14 mm, IP54	Hammond MFG	1	Buy Now
MULTICOMP PRO Schallwandler, Durchsteckmontage, 1V bis 2V, 10mA, 80dB, 2.048kHz	MULTICOMP PRO	1	Buy Now
PANASONIC Elektrolytkondensator, 10 µF, 63 V, ± 20%, Radial bedrahtet, 5000 Stunden bei 105°C, Polarisiert	PANASONIC	1	Buy Now
MULTICOMP PRO Chipwiderstand, Oberflächenmontage, 82 kohm, ± 5%, 100 mW, 0603 [Metrisch 1608]	MULTICOMP PRO	1	Buy Now
ONSEMI Kleinsignaldiode, Einfach, 100 V, 200 mA, 1 V, 4 ns, 4 A	ON SEMI	1	Buy Now
MULTICOMP PRO Chipwiderstand, Oberflächenmontage, 270 kohm, ± 1%, 100 mW, 0603 [Metrisch 1608]	MULTICOMP PRO	1	Buy Now
ATTINY412-SSNR	Microchip	1	Buy Now
BOURNS Induktivität, radial bedrahtet, Baureihe RLB, 10mH, 34mA, 39 Ohm, ± 10%	BOURNS	1	Buy Now
MULTICOMP PRO Keramikvielschichtkondensator, SMD, 120 pF, 50 V, 0603 [Metrisch: 1608], ± 2%, C0G / NP0	MULTICOMP PRO	1	Buy Now
MULTICOMP PRO Bipolarer Einzeltransistor (BJT), NPN, 40 V, 600 mA, 625 mW, TO-92, Durchsteckmontage	MULTICOMP PRO	1	Buy Now
MULTICOMP PRO Bipolarer Einzeltransistor (BJT), PNP, 40 V, 600 mA, 625 mW, TO-92, Durchsteckmontage	MULTICOMP PRO	1	Buy Now
MULTICOMP PRO Keramikvielschichtkondensator, SMD, 10 pF, 50 V, 0603 [Metrisch: 1608], ± 0.5pF, C0G / NP0	MULTICOMP PRO	1	Buy Now
KEMET Keramikvielschichtkondensator, SMD, AEC-Q200, 1000 pF, 50 V, 0603 [Metrisch: 1608], ± 5%	KEMET	1	Buy Now
MICROCHIP LDO-Festspannungsregler, 2.1V bis 6V, 210mV Dropout, 5Vout, 500mAout, SOT-223-3	Microchip	1	Buy Now
MULTICOMP PRO Chipwiderstand, Oberflächenmontage, 1 Mohm, ± 1%, 100 mW, 0603 [Metrisch 1608]	MULTICOMP PRO	1	Buy Now
MULTICOMP PRO Chipwiderstand, Oberflächenmontage, 3.9 kohm, ± 1%, 100 mW, 0603 [Metrisch 1608]	MULTICOMP PRO	1	Buy Now
PANASONIC Elektrolytkondensator, 100 µF, 16 V, ± 20%, Radial bedrahtet, 2000 Stunden bei 85°C, Polarisiert	PANASONIC	1	Buy Now
Additional Parts
BNC connectors Panel mount
Power switch
BNC antenna

element14 presents | About Clem | Project Videos

Creating an ESD (Or Lightning!) Detector! -- Episode 669

e14sbhargav — Fri, 13 Jun 2025 08:32:38 GMT

Revision 7 posted to Documents by e14sbhargav on 6/13/2025 8:32:38 AM

Watch the Episode

https://youtu.be/lWy5UBRMFgI

Understanding the ESD Detector

The Circuit Design

Demonstrating the Detector

In his video, Clem tests the ESD detector in several scenarios, demonstrating its utility in real-world applications. Examples include:

Detecting static discharges from common sources.
Monitoring motor firings to identify noise-induced disruptions.
Capturing the precise timing of glitches that align with ESD events.

These demonstrations show how the detector can help isolate and address problems that might otherwise remain un-diagnosed.
Importance of Licensing and Attribution

Importance of Licensing and Attribution

Why Build an ESD Detector?

Watch the Full Build

For a detailed walk-through and demonstration, watch Clem’s video to learn more about building and using an ESD detector in your own projects.

Supporting Files and Links

Wenzel Detector Original Circuit
New Lightning Dietector by Charles Wenzel
Supporting files for Episode 669 of element14 presents

Bill of Materials

Product Name	Manufacturer	Quantity	Buy Kit
HAMMOND Metallgehäuse, S, Aluminium, stranggepresst, 54.61 mm, 103.89 mm, 120.14 mm, IP54	Hammond MFG	1	Buy Now
MULTICOMP PRO Schallwandler, Durchsteckmontage, 1V bis 2V, 10mA, 80dB, 2.048kHz	MULTICOMP PRO	1	Buy Now
PANASONIC Elektrolytkondensator, 10 µF, 63 V, ± 20%, Radial bedrahtet, 5000 Stunden bei 105°C, Polarisiert	PANASONIC	1	Buy Now
MULTICOMP PRO Chipwiderstand, Oberflächenmontage, 82 kohm, ± 5%, 100 mW, 0603 [Metrisch 1608]	MULTICOMP PRO	1	Buy Now
ONSEMI Kleinsignaldiode, Einfach, 100 V, 200 mA, 1 V, 4 ns, 4 A	ON SEMI	1	Buy Now
MULTICOMP PRO Chipwiderstand, Oberflächenmontage, 270 kohm, ± 1%, 100 mW, 0603 [Metrisch 1608]	MULTICOMP PRO	1	Buy Now
ATTINY412-SSNR	Microchip	1	Buy Now
BOURNS Induktivität, radial bedrahtet, Baureihe RLB, 10mH, 34mA, 39 Ohm, ± 10%	BOURNS	1	Buy Now
MULTICOMP PRO Keramikvielschichtkondensator, SMD, 120 pF, 50 V, 0603 [Metrisch: 1608], ± 2%, C0G / NP0	MULTICOMP PRO	1	Buy Now
MULTICOMP PRO Bipolarer Einzeltransistor (BJT), NPN, 40 V, 600 mA, 625 mW, TO-92, Durchsteckmontage	MULTICOMP PRO	1	Buy Now
MULTICOMP PRO Bipolarer Einzeltransistor (BJT), PNP, 40 V, 600 mA, 625 mW, TO-92, Durchsteckmontage	MULTICOMP PRO	1	Buy Now
MULTICOMP PRO Keramikvielschichtkondensator, SMD, 10 pF, 50 V, 0603 [Metrisch: 1608], ± 0.5pF, C0G / NP0	MULTICOMP PRO	1	Buy Now
KEMET Keramikvielschichtkondensator, SMD, AEC-Q200, 1000 pF, 50 V, 0603 [Metrisch: 1608], ± 5%	KEMET	1	Buy Now
MICROCHIP LDO-Festspannungsregler, 2.1V bis 6V, 210mV Dropout, 5Vout, 500mAout, SOT-223-3	Microchip	1	Buy Now
MULTICOMP PRO Chipwiderstand, Oberflächenmontage, 1 Mohm, ± 1%, 100 mW, 0603 [Metrisch 1608]	MULTICOMP PRO	1	Buy Now
MULTICOMP PRO Chipwiderstand, Oberflächenmontage, 3.9 kohm, ± 1%, 100 mW, 0603 [Metrisch 1608]	MULTICOMP PRO	1	Buy Now
PANASONIC Elektrolytkondensator, 100 µF, 16 V, ± 20%, Radial bedrahtet, 2000 Stunden bei 85°C, Polarisiert	PANASONIC	1	Buy Now
Additional Parts
BNC connectors Panel mount
Power switch
BNC antenna

element14 presents | About Clem | Project Videos

Creating an ESD (Or Lightning!) Detector! -- Episode 669

cstanton — Thu, 12 Jun 2025 16:26:00 GMT

Revision 5 posted to Documents by cstanton on 6/12/2025 4:26:00 PM

Watch the Episode

https://youtu.be/lWy5UBRMFgI

Understanding the ESD Detector

The Circuit Design

Demonstrating the Detector

In his video, Clem tests the ESD detector in several scenarios, demonstrating its utility in real-world applications. Examples include:

Detecting static discharges from common sources.
Monitoring motor firings to identify noise-induced disruptions.
Capturing the precise timing of glitches that align with ESD events.

These demonstrations show how the detector can help isolate and address problems that might otherwise remain un-diagnosed.
Importance of Licensing and Attribution

Importance of Licensing and Attribution

Why Build an ESD Detector?

Watch the Full Build

For a detailed walk-through and demonstration, watch Clem’s video to learn more about building and using an ESD detector in your own projects.

Supporting Files and Links

Wenzel Detector Original Circuit
New Lightning Dietector by Charles Wenzel
Supporting files for Episode 669 of element14 presents

Bill of Materials

Product Name	Manufacturer	Quantity	Buy Kit
HAMMOND Metallgehäuse, S, Aluminium, stranggepresst, 54.61 mm, 103.89 mm, 120.14 mm, IP54	Hammond MFG	1	Buy Now
MULTICOMP PRO Schallwandler, Durchsteckmontage, 1V bis 2V, 10mA, 80dB, 2.048kHz	MULTICOMP PRO	1	Buy Now
PANASONIC Elektrolytkondensator, 10 µF, 63 V, ± 20%, Radial bedrahtet, 5000 Stunden bei 105°C, Polarisiert	PANASONIC	1	Buy Now
MULTICOMP PRO Chipwiderstand, Oberflächenmontage, 82 kohm, ± 5%, 100 mW, 0603 [Metrisch 1608]	MULTICOMP PRO	1	Buy Now
ONSEMI Kleinsignaldiode, Einfach, 100 V, 200 mA, 1 V, 4 ns, 4 A	ON SEMI	1	Buy Now
MULTICOMP PRO Chipwiderstand, Oberflächenmontage, 270 kohm, ± 1%, 100 mW, 0603 [Metrisch 1608]	MULTICOMP PRO	1	Buy Now
ATTINY412-SSNR	Microchip	1	Buy Now
BOURNS Induktivität, radial bedrahtet, Baureihe RLB, 10mH, 34mA, 39 Ohm, ± 10%	BOURNS	1	Buy Now
MULTICOMP PRO Keramikvielschichtkondensator, SMD, 120 pF, 50 V, 0603 [Metrisch: 1608], ± 2%, C0G / NP0	MULTICOMP PRO	1	Buy Now
MULTICOMP PRO Bipolarer Einzeltransistor (BJT), NPN, 40 V, 600 mA, 625 mW, TO-92, Durchsteckmontage	MULTICOMP PRO	1	Buy Now
MULTICOMP PRO Bipolarer Einzeltransistor (BJT), PNP, 40 V, 600 mA, 625 mW, TO-92, Durchsteckmontage	MULTICOMP PRO	1	Buy Now
MULTICOMP PRO Keramikvielschichtkondensator, SMD, 10 pF, 50 V, 0603 [Metrisch: 1608], ± 0.5pF, C0G / NP0	MULTICOMP PRO	1	Buy Now
KEMET Keramikvielschichtkondensator, SMD, AEC-Q200, 1000 pF, 50 V, 0603 [Metrisch: 1608], ± 5%	KEMET	1	Buy Now
MICROCHIP LDO-Festspannungsregler, 2.1V bis 6V, 210mV Dropout, 5Vout, 500mAout, SOT-223-3	Microchip	1	Buy Now
MULTICOMP PRO Chipwiderstand, Oberflächenmontage, 1 Mohm, ± 1%, 100 mW, 0603 [Metrisch 1608]	MULTICOMP PRO	1	Buy Now
MULTICOMP PRO Chipwiderstand, Oberflächenmontage, 3.9 kohm, ± 1%, 100 mW, 0603 [Metrisch 1608]	MULTICOMP PRO	1	Buy Now
PANASONIC Elektrolytkondensator, 100 µF, 16 V, ± 20%, Radial bedrahtet, 2000 Stunden bei 85°C, Polarisiert	PANASONIC	1	Buy Now
Additional Parts
BNC connectors Panel mount
Power switch
BNC antenna

Creating an ESD (Or Lightning!) Detector! -- Episode 669

cstanton — Thu, 12 Jun 2025 16:19:27 GMT

Revision 4 posted to Documents by cstanton on 6/12/2025 4:19:27 PM

Watch the Episode

https://youtu.be/lWy5UBRMFgI

Understanding the ESD Detector

The Circuit Design

The ESD detector Clem built is designed to monitor for electrostatic discharge events and output a signal when one occurs. This signal can trigger test equipment like oscilloscopes, allowing users to observe the exact behavior of a system during an ESD event. This functionality is especially useful for identifying issues in systems where timing and signal behavior are critical.
The Circuit Design

Clem based his ESD detector on a design by Charles Wenzel of Techlib.com. Wenzel’s circuit is known for its sensitivity and reliability, which makes it a strong foundation for detecting subtle ESD events. Clem obtained permission from Wenzel to adapt and use the design, emphasizing the importance of adhering to licensing terms and respecting intellectual property. This step ensures ethical practices and fosters collaboration within the electronics community.
Demonstrating the Detector

Demonstrating the Detector

In his video, Clem tests the ESD detector in several scenarios, demonstrating its utility in real-world applications. Examples include:

Detecting static discharges from common sources.
Monitoring motor firings to identify noise-induced disruptions.
Capturing the precise timing of glitches that align with ESD events.

These demonstrations show how the detector can help isolate and address problems that might otherwise remain undiagnosed.
Importance of Licensing and Attribution

Importance of Licensing and Attribution

Why Build an ESD Detector?

For those working with electronics, ESD-related issues can be difficult to identify and resolve. An ESD detector provides a straightforward way to monitor and analyze these events, making it a useful tool for debugging complex systems. Clem’s project offers a clear, practical solution to a common problem, along with insights into the importance of responsible project development.

Watch the Full Build

For a detailed walkthrough and demonstration, watch Clem’s video to learn more about building and using an ESD detector in your own projects.

Supporting Files and Links

Wenzel Detector Original Circuit
New Lightning Dietector by Charles Wenzel
Supporting files for Episode 669 of element14 presents

Bill of Materials

Product Name	Manufacturer	Quantity	Buy Kit
HAMMOND Metallgehäuse, S, Aluminium, stranggepresst, 54.61 mm, 103.89 mm, 120.14 mm, IP54	Hammond MFG	1	Buy Now
MULTICOMP PRO Schallwandler, Durchsteckmontage, 1V bis 2V, 10mA, 80dB, 2.048kHz	MULTICOMP PRO	1	Buy Now
PANASONIC Elektrolytkondensator, 10 µF, 63 V, ± 20%, Radial bedrahtet, 5000 Stunden bei 105°C, Polarisiert	PANASONIC	1	Buy Now
MULTICOMP PRO Chipwiderstand, Oberflächenmontage, 82 kohm, ± 5%, 100 mW, 0603 [Metrisch 1608]	MULTICOMP PRO	1	Buy Now
ONSEMI Kleinsignaldiode, Einfach, 100 V, 200 mA, 1 V, 4 ns, 4 A	ON SEMI	1	Buy Now
MULTICOMP PRO Chipwiderstand, Oberflächenmontage, 270 kohm, ± 1%, 100 mW, 0603 [Metrisch 1608]	MULTICOMP PRO	1	Buy Now
ATTINY412-SSNR	Microchip	1	Buy Now
BOURNS Induktivität, radial bedrahtet, Baureihe RLB, 10mH, 34mA, 39 Ohm, ± 10%	BOURNS	1	Buy Now
MULTICOMP PRO Keramikvielschichtkondensator, SMD, 120 pF, 50 V, 0603 [Metrisch: 1608], ± 2%, C0G / NP0	MULTICOMP PRO	1	Buy Now
MULTICOMP PRO Bipolarer Einzeltransistor (BJT), NPN, 40 V, 600 mA, 625 mW, TO-92, Durchsteckmontage	MULTICOMP PRO	1	Buy Now
MULTICOMP PRO Bipolarer Einzeltransistor (BJT), PNP, 40 V, 600 mA, 625 mW, TO-92, Durchsteckmontage	MULTICOMP PRO	1	Buy Now
MULTICOMP PRO Keramikvielschichtkondensator, SMD, 10 pF, 50 V, 0603 [Metrisch: 1608], ± 0.5pF, C0G / NP0	MULTICOMP PRO	1	Buy Now
KEMET Keramikvielschichtkondensator, SMD, AEC-Q200, 1000 pF, 50 V, 0603 [Metrisch: 1608], ± 5%	KEMET	1	Buy Now
MICROCHIP LDO-Festspannungsregler, 2.1V bis 6V, 210mV Dropout, 5Vout, 500mAout, SOT-223-3	Microchip	1	Buy Now
MULTICOMP PRO Chipwiderstand, Oberflächenmontage, 1 Mohm, ± 1%, 100 mW, 0603 [Metrisch 1608]	MULTICOMP PRO	1	Buy Now
MULTICOMP PRO Chipwiderstand, Oberflächenmontage, 3.9 kohm, ± 1%, 100 mW, 0603 [Metrisch 1608]	MULTICOMP PRO	1	Buy Now
PANASONIC Elektrolytkondensator, 100 µF, 16 V, ± 20%, Radial bedrahtet, 2000 Stunden bei 85°C, Polarisiert	PANASONIC	1	Buy Now
Additional Parts
BNC connectors Panel mount
Power switch
BNC antenna

Creating an ESD (Or Lightning!) Detector! -- Episode 669

cstanton — Thu, 12 Jun 2025 16:10:27 GMT

Revision 3 posted to Documents by cstanton on 6/12/2025 4:10:27 PM

Watch the Episode

https://youtu.be/lWy5UBRMFgI

The ESD detector Clem built is designed to monitor for electrostatic discharge events and output a signal when one occurs. This signal can trigger test equipment like oscilloscopes, allowing users to observe the exact behavior of a system during an ESD event. This functionality is especially useful for identifying issues in systems where timing and signal behavior are critical.
The Circuit Design

Clem based his ESD detector on a design by Charles Wenzel of Techlib.com. Wenzel’s circuit is known for its sensitivity and reliability, which makes it a strong foundation for detecting subtle ESD events. Clem obtained permission from Wenzel to adapt and use the design, emphasizing the importance of adhering to licensing terms and respecting intellectual property. This step ensures ethical practices and fosters collaboration within the electronics community.
Demonstrating the Detector

In his video, Clem tests the ESD detector in several scenarios, demonstrating its utility in real-world applications. Examples include:

Detecting static discharges from common sources.
Monitoring motor firings to identify noise-induced disruptions.
Capturing the precise timing of glitches that align with ESD events.

These demonstrations show how the detector can help isolate and address problems that might otherwise remain undiagnosed.
Importance of Licensing and Attribution

For a detailed walkthrough and demonstration, watch Clem’s video to learn more about building and using an ESD detector in your own projects.

Supporting Files and Links

Wenzel Detector Original Circuit
New Lightning Dietector by Charles Wenzel
Supporting files for Episode 669 of element14 presents

Creating an ESD (Or Lightning!) Detector! -- Episode 669

cstanton — Thu, 12 Jun 2025 15:45:53 GMT

Revision 2 posted to Documents by cstanton on 6/12/2025 3:45:53 PM

Watch the Episode

https://youtu.be/lWy5UBRMFgI

The ESD detector Clem built is designed to monitor for electrostatic discharge events and output a signal when one occurs. This signal can trigger test equipment like oscilloscopes, allowing users to observe the exact behavior of a system during an ESD event. This functionality is especially useful for identifying issues in systems where timing and signal behavior are critical.
The Circuit Design

Clem based his ESD detector on a design by Charles Wenzel of Techlib.com. Wenzel’s circuit is known for its sensitivity and reliability, which makes it a strong foundation for detecting subtle ESD events. Clem obtained permission from Wenzel to adapt and use the design, emphasizing the importance of adhering to licensing terms and respecting intellectual property. This step ensures ethical practices and fosters collaboration within the electronics community.
Demonstrating the Detector

In his video, Clem tests the ESD detector in several scenarios, demonstrating its utility in real-world applications. Examples include:

Detecting static discharges from common sources.
Monitoring motor firings to identify noise-induced disruptions.
Capturing the precise timing of glitches that align with ESD events.

These demonstrations show how the detector can help isolate and address problems that might otherwise remain undiagnosed.
Importance of Licensing and Attribution

For a detailed walkthrough and demonstration, watch Clem’s video to learn more about building and using an ESD detector in your own projects.

Supporting Files and Links

Wenzel Detector Original Circuit
New Lightning Dietector by Charles Wenzel
Supporting files for Episode 669 of element14 presents

Creating an ESD (Or Lightning!) Detector! -- Episode 669

cstanton — Thu, 12 Jun 2025 15:42:13 GMT

Revision 1 posted to Documents by cstanton on 6/12/2025 3:42:13 PM

Supporting Files and Links

Wenzel Detector Original Circuit
New Lightning Dietector by Charles Wenzel
Supporting files for Episode 669 of element14 presents