The success or failure of a transient voltage surge suppression (TVSS) device to protect your critical equipment is determined by the technology utilized within the component.
There are four standard technologies used by surge suppression devices:
- Gas Tube Arrestor
- Selenium Plates
- MOV (Metal Oxide Varistor)
- SAD (Silicon Avalanche Diode)
Utilizing the IEEE C62.41-1991 1.2X50 microsecond, 6000 volt wave form to evaluate the electrical characteristics of these technologies, the following results were determined.
SAD's
Silicon avalanche diodes, rated at 210 Vpk, are semiconductor devices. SADs have a tight clamping voltage rating and response-time is nanoseconds. The electrical characteristics of this technology are stability with time/use and a low energy rating of 5 Joules. When tested, the diode clamped at 221 Vpk and then voltage diminished to 211 Vpk after 40 microseconds. The test concludes that of the technologies tested, SAD components assure the fastest response-time and tightest clamping capability.
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