Here is some information from William Brenner at Pangolin, experts in laser diode ESD. posted with permission...
From: William R. Benner / Pangolin <wrb2@pangolin.com>
Subject: RE: questions about ESD+laser diode
Date: 19 September 2010 5:57:12 PM EDT
Hi,
Thanks for contacting me. My comments are below.
hi there. i use your lasorbs when i build laser pointers for
my own use. i have a question. if the leads of a laser diode,
that is not in a circuit, are shorted together will this
protect the diode from ESD?
Generally yes, but there are laser diodes which have leads that are not
connected to the case. If you connect the two leads together, but leave the
case unconnected, and then if ESD approaches the case, it could be that ESD
can get to the silicon via the case. So for total protection, all parts
should be shorted. If it is a matter of transporting the laser diode, they
can be transported in Aluminum Foil which certainly offers the best
protection.
also if the leads and the case
lead are connected together will provide any protection?
Yes, see above.
if yes or no, do you have any research to "prove" this?
Our responses would always be based on science, so no external opinion would
ever influence our assertions.
also, in terms of IR, red, blue (the nichia 1W 445nm
specifically) and 405 (blu-ray, 6x-12x) - are any more
susceptible to ESD damage than others?
The lowest power laser diodes, and diodes that have aluminum in the active
region are the most sensitive. Generally this means that low power red and
VCSEL are the most sensitive.
finally, are there common "modes" of damage that ESD imparts?
if so what are they?
Best regards,
William Benner