Re: Lightning Arrestors
They use similar components such as Selenium, Gas Tubes, SAD?s, and MOV?s. But a lightning/surge arrestors has lost its meaning over the years as these devices are now employed in I/O ports, telephone line protectors, and other signal mediums.
Originally they were used by utilities primarily along the transmission lines and upstream of a facility entrance. Low voltage systems (>600), now have TVSS protectors at the service and branch panels in place of lightning/surge protectors. TVSS offers the advantages over lightning/surge arrestors:
* Low let through voltage, or better performance
* Longer life expectancy.
* Improved safety, or less destructive debris if damaged
* Full monitoring bells and whistles.
* Internal disconnects and fusing.
* Optional filtering to remove low level surge/noise.
So to answer you questions:
1. Lightning arrestor are used ahead of the service entrance , and TVSS devices are in or after the service entrance.
2. Depends on what you are protecting. Is it a AC feed to a sign or gate controller, or a signal/control cable?
