The voltage potential at which the insulating properties of a non-conductor will break down and conduct current. Measured in kilo-volts.

The voltage at which a dielectric material is punctured; which is divisible by thickness to give dielectric strength.

The point at which a dielectric substance becomes conductive. Usually a castastrophic insulation failure caused by excessive voltage.

The failure of an insulating material to separate electrical charges. Breakdown occurs when the insulating material changes and conducts the electrical charge between plates.

The dielectric regions within a semiconductor have a unique breakdown voltage associated with them. When an applied voltage, such as an ESD pulse, exceeds this voltage, a dielectric puncture can occur. Depending upon the amount of pulse energy, the puncture may fuse and the device may either exhibit a reduced breakdown voltage; an increased leakage current (both possible parametric failures); or fail completely. See Failure Mechanism.