jännitesuojan

Jännitesuoja, often translated as voltage protection or surge protector, is a device designed to protect electrical equipment from voltage spikes and surges. These surges can be caused by various factors, including lightning strikes, power outages and restoration, or switching operations within the power grid. When such a surge occurs, a jännitesuoja diverts the excess voltage away from the connected devices, preventing damage.

There are several types of jännitesuoja, including surge protector strips and individual plug-in units. Surge protector strips are commonly used for multiple electronic devices, such as those found in a home office. Individual units can be plugged directly into wall outlets to protect specific appliances. The effectiveness of a jännitesuoja is often measured by its joule rating, which indicates how much energy it can absorb before failing. Higher joule ratings generally offer greater protection.

The internal components of a jännitesuoja typically include metal oxide varistors (MOVs) or silicon avalanche diodes. These components act as a switch, allowing current to flow through them when the voltage exceeds a certain threshold. This diverted current is then safely dissipated, usually as heat. Many jännitesuojat also incorporate an indicator light to show that they are functioning correctly. Regular testing or replacement of jännitesuojat is recommended, as their protective capabilities can degrade over time, especially after absorbing multiple surges.