Case 831 ยท Public preview
Extensive Output Melting Can Distinguish Gross EOS from Ambiguous ESD-Like Features
One output of a quad differential line driver stopped functioning and developed a low-resistance path to ground. The other outputs, including its companion output, appeared functional.
Resistance verificationDecapsulationOptical microscopySEMEDSInternal output comparison
What the evidence preview establishes
The failed output contained extensive melting of aluminum metallization and silicon-dioxide passivation, supporting gross electrical overstress. Possible melt-pipe features did not uniquely establish an ESD event or the initiating waveform.
Why this case matters
Classify the dominant damage before assigning a transient type. Compare failed and intact structures, distinguish gross melting from ambiguous local features, and confirm the circuit event with electrical evidence rather than treating a calculated pulse estimate as a measurement.
Full evidence reserved for MEMBER and STOREThe complete case includes the evidence sequence, 4 interpreted figures, alternative explanations, limitations, and practical application guidance.