How to Choose RF Lightning Arrester for Your Application

Best circuit protection is the one that’s “good enough”

Often times it’s not known what’s “good enough” as installations and locations will differ

Consideration of the technology is important as activation time (or peak voltages needed to turn on) needs to be considered

For example, a gas tube may not turn on until it reaches 300V +/- 20%

Upfront cost is typically a concern, but often cost of ownership isn’t taken into consideration

Some RF SPDs degrade with each surge (stand alone gas tube)

Results in replacement of product which often includes a roll-out to the site as well as cost of equipment damaged

Filters or hybrid RF SPDs are more costly, but typically don’t degrade with surge events