What does an ESD meter measure?

An ESD (Electrostatic Discharge) meter is specifically designed to measure the voltage of static charges and their polarity. This measurement is critical in environments sensitive to electrostatic discharge, such as electronics manufacturing and assembly, where static electricity can damage sensitive components.

Understanding the voltage of static charge allows technicians to take necessary precautions, such as proper grounding and the use of ESD protective equipment, to mitigate the risks associated with electrostatic discharge. The ability to also determine the polarity of the charge is important for ensuring that protective measures are effective and appropriate for the specific electrical environment being dealt with.

Other options relate to different types of electrical measurements that do not align with the primary function of an ESD meter. For example, measuring resistance to ground, current flow in circuits, or power consumption involves different instruments and methodologies, such as multimeters or specialized power analyzers, rather than an ESD meter.