Abstract: Design and optimization of NMOS drivers using a self-ballasting ESD protection technique in a fully silicided CMOS process. Silicided NMOS fingers which include segmented drain diffusion. Specifically, the segmented drain diffusion provides self-ballasting resistors which improves the ESD performance. Preferably, the width of the each diffusion resistor is relatively small, as this can improve a non-uniform silicidation process. The resistance of the segmented diffusion resistors is determined by their width and length, and effectively increases the ballasting effect of parasitic n-p-n bipolar transistors.