Surge Protector Ratings

[ashav076]

Hello,

I tried searching, but I didn't quite find a direct answer.

Might seem like an easy question, but I'm wondering how surge protectors get their ratings - specifically their joule rating? I have read about MOV's, and that their joule rating is basically a measure of their ability to absorb energy, but what is a "good" rating? I'm setting up some workstations with some expensive equipment, so I want to make sure to get decent surge protectors.

Any tips would be much appreciated!

 

[magoo2]

If you google "TVSS joule ratings", you'll get some hits.

Many manufacturers rate their surge protective devices or transient voltage surge suppressors (TVSS) differently so the buyer must beware.

 

[bacon4life]

current *voltage * duration = Joule rating.

Unfortunately, while a high Joule rating could mean more current and a longer duration, it could also mean that it just has a really high turn on voltage.