TVS (Transient Voltage Suppressors) - Varistors, MOVs (Metal Oxide Varistors) are components designed to protect electronic circuits from voltage spikes. These devices are crucial in managing excess voltage by clamping it to a safe level that the components in the circuit can handle, thereby preventing potential damage. Varistors are particularly valued for their ability to absorb and dissipate high transient voltages quickly, while MOVs are a specific type of varistor made using metal oxide materials, which enhance their response times and durability against repeated voltage spikes.
The primary use of TVS - Varistors, MOVs is in safeguarding sensitive electronic equipment from voltage surges typically caused by lightning strikes, power outages, and switches in industrial equipment. Their characteristics include quick response to surges, a high energy absorption capability, and a broad operating temperature range, making them suitable for a wide array of applications. These devices are commonly found in consumer electronics, industrial high-power applications, and communication systems. Notable manufacturers of these components include Littelfuse, Bourns, and STMicroelectronics.