Surges can damage electronics, but what if one compact component could block spikes, save energy, and last longer? Can this hybrid design change everything?
While making electronic devices like power supplies, chargers, appliances, surge protection devices, and communication systems you might face a common problem. The most challenging issue is protecting circuits from voltage surges while maintaining efficiency and long-term reliability. Traditional surge protection approaches often compromise one factor for another. Using a metal oxide varistor (MOV) alone can result in standby leakage current and reduced component lifetime under repeated surges. Relying solely on a gas discharge tube (GDT) can leave residual voltages unhandled and may allow follow-current that causes re-firing. Designers and engineers need a solution that addresses these issues while saving board space.
TDK Corporation has introduced the G series surge protection components, G14 and G20 to solve these problems. These components integrate an MOV and a GDT in a single hybrid design, connected in series. The series configuration combines the strengths of both elements. The GDT isolates the MOV during normal operation, eliminating standby leakage current. The MOV only engages after the GDT fires, extending its lifetime; and together, they handle surges efficiently, with the GDT acting as the fast first line of defense and the MOV clamping residual voltages, absorbing remaining energy, and preventing the GDT from reigniting.
The compact hybrid design simplifies circuit layout and reduces board space compared to using separate components. The G series is available in two leaded versions. G14 supports AC operating voltages from 50 V to 680 V, while G20 extends the range to 750 V. Maximum surge current for a single pulse is 6,000 A for G14 and 10,000 A for G20, with energy absorption up to 200 J and 490 J, respectively. Both models operate in a temperature range of -40 °C to +105 °C, making them suitable for applications that require high efficiency, durability, and reliable surge protection.
