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What is TVS Varistor : Top Manufacturers

A TVS varistor is a voltage dependent protection device used to absorb and suppress transient voltage surges in electronic circuits. It automatically changes resistance in response to excessive voltage, helping protect sensitive equipment from electrical disturbances, lightning induced surges, and switching transients.

About TVS Varistor

Metal Oxide Varistors (MOV), often referred to as TVS Varistors, are electronic components vital for protecting sensitive circuits from electrostatic discharge (ESD) and other transient voltage events. A varistor, short for variable resistor, is an electronic component with an electrical resistance that changes based on the applied voltage. For this reason, they are also known as Voltage Dependent Resistors (VDRs).

They exhibit a non-linear voltage-current (V-I) characteristic, much like a diode.

TVS Varistor or Metal Oxide Varistor symbol

The metal-oxide varistor is the most prevalent type. It consists of a ceramic mass made up of zinc oxide grains held together in a matrix of other metal oxides, all sandwiched between two metal plates (electrodes). These metal oxides can include elements like bismuth, cobalt, and manganese.

TVS Varistor Selection Guide

When choosing a TVS Varistor for your specific application, keep the following specifications in mind:

  • Varistor voltage range (min.,max.)
  • Surge Current
  • Energy
  • Number of Circuits
  • Maximum AC Volts
  • Maximum DC Volts
  • Capacitance @ frequency
  • Operating Temperature
  • Mounting Type
  • Package/Case Type

TVS Varistor Manufacturers

The following table lists some of the well-known TVS Varistor manufacturers:

TVS Varistor Manufacturers
AVX Corporation
Eaton
Bourns Inc.
KEMET
Abracon LLC
Littlefuse Inc.
Murata
Micro commercial Co.
Socay Electronics Corp., Ltd.
Panasonic electronic components
Vishay
TDK Corporation
Yageo

Summary

A TVS varistor protects electronic devices by suppressing voltage spikes and transient surges. Manufacturers provide varistor-based protection solutions for power systems, industrial electronics, consumer devices, and communication equipment.