Q&A(FAQ) What is MSL(Moisture Sensitivity Level)?
1. MSL(Moisture Sensitivity Level)
Semiconductor components with resin-sealed packages may be damaged during reflow soldering if moisture trapped inside the package expands.
MSL is an electronic standard established by JEDEC that defines the period during which a moisture-sensitive device can be exposed to ambient room conditions.
According to this standard, there are eight levels of moisture sensitivity.
Components must also be packed with a desiccant and may require baking.
Floor life is defined as the allowable storage time at less than 30°C and 60% RH.
| # | MSL | Floor Life |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1 | Unlimited (30°C less than 85%RH) |
| 2 | 2 | 1 year |
| 3 | 2a | 4 weeks |
| 4 | 3 | 168 hours (7 days) |
| 5 | 4 | 72 hours (3 days) |
| 6 | 5 | 48 hours (2 days) |
| 7 | 5a | 24 hours (1 day) |
| 8 | 6 | Mandatory Bake before use |
2. MSL of COSEL product
Power supplies are not semiconductor devices and are therefore generally not subject to MSL classification.
However, some COSEL products—specifically certain PCB-mount models designed for surface-mount applications—are classified as MSL 2.
For further details, please refer to the instruction manual.