Circuit Protection

Circuit protection components safeguard electronic systems from overcurrent, overvoltage, ESD, and surge events — preventing damage and ensuring safety compliance. This category includes fuses (fast-blow, slow-blow, resettable PTC), TVS diodes (ESD protection, surge suppression), varistors (MOV), GDT (gas discharge tubes), ESD suppressors, circuit breakers, and inrush current limiters. Key parameters: rated voltage, rated current/hold current, breaking capacity, clamping voltage, response time, and package (SMD chip, axial leaded, cartridge, DIN rail). Application-specific requirements include automotive load dump protection (ISO 7637-2), telecom surge protection (ITU-T K.21), USB/HDMI ESD protection (IEC 61000-4-2), and lithium battery protection. Popular manufacturers: Littelfuse, Bourns, Eaton, TE Connectivity, STMicroelectronics, Nexperia, and onsemi.