TVS - Varistors, MOVs

TVS - Varistors, MOVs: Robust Circuit Protection Against Voltage Surges

Definition:
TVS (Transient Voltage Suppression) devices, including varistors and MOVs (Metal Oxide Varistors), are essential components in circuit protection, designed to safeguard sensitive electronics from voltage spikes and transient surges. These devices rapidly clamp excessive voltage, diverting harmful energy away from critical circuits to prevent damage caused by lightning strikes, electrostatic discharge (ESD), or inductive load switching.

Types of Products in This Category:
1. Standard Varistors/MOVs: Cost-effective, general-purpose solutions for moderate surge protection in consumer electronics, power supplies, and industrial equipment.
2. High-Energy MOVs: Engineered for heavy-duty applications (e.g., power distribution systems), capable of absorbing large surge currents.
3. Surface-Mount (SMD) Varistors: Compact designs for PCB protection in space-constrained devices like IoT modules or mobile gadgets.
4. Automotive-Grade TVS Varistors: AEC-Q200 compliant, ensuring reliability against load dumps in vehicles.
5. Low-Clamping Voltage TVS Devices: Precision protection for ultra-sensitive ICs, with fast response times (<1ns).

Purchasing Recommendations:
- Voltage Rating: Select a varistor with a maximum continuous operating voltage (V_RMS/V_DC) exceeding your circuit s normal operating voltage by 20-30%.
- Energy Absorption: Match the surge current rating (e.g., 8/20 s waveform) to your environment s threat level (e.g., 6kA for industrial vs. 3kA for consumer apps).
- Certifications: Prioritize UL1449 or IEC 61000-4-5 compliance for safety-critical systems.
- Form Factor: For high-density boards, opt for SMD packages; through-hole variants suit high-power scenarios.

Pro Tip: Pair MOVs with thermal fuses or gas discharge tubes (GDTs) in cascaded protection circuits to enhance longevity and fail-safe performance.