What can ESD potentially damage?

Electrostatic discharge (ESD) can potentially cause significant damage to electrical components. These components are sensitive to static electricity, and even a small discharge can lead to malfunctions or complete failure. This damage occurs due to the high voltage levels associated with ESD that can disrupt the internal structures of semiconductor devices. As a result, semiconductor devices, integrated circuits, and other electronic parts are particularly vulnerable and can suffer from latent defects or immediate failure.

While power generators, network cables, and physical documents may experience some level of adverse effects from static electricity, they are generally less susceptible to the immediate and severe damage that ESD can inflict on electrical components. For instance, power generators might have protective measures in place, and network cables are typically well-insulated against static charges. Physical documents are not directly affected by ESD in the same way electrical components are. Therefore, the primary concern when discussing ESD is its impact on electronic and electrical parts, making electrical components the most relevant answer.