The Machine Model (MM) has both a fast rise time and no current limiting resistor; therefore, the peak currents can be as high as 30 amperes for a very short duration depending on the length of wire and series inductance of the wires utilized in test hardware for the performance of this test. Also, the high frequency characteristics of the 200-pF capacitor can significantly affect the results of this test. The peak voltage is much lower than the Human Body Model (HMB) test, but the fast rise time and the peak current can generate failures that are not detected by the HBM test.

This type of failure is generally produced by the test machines on the production floors or by machines that handle electronic components for both test and packaging. The cause of this problem is inadequate grounding of the machines through the use of electrical isolation bushings, anodized aluminum (which gives clean surface finishes but poor electrical conduction), and extensive use of plastics. The MM ESD test is the primary acceptance type test for device qualification in Japan.