Power Adapter Surge Protection

　　Surge protection is an essential feature in power adapters, as electrical surges can cause significant damage to both the adapter and the devices it powers. Electrical surges are sudden, short - lived increases in voltage that can occur due to various reasons, such as lightning strikes, power grid switching operations, or nearby electrical equipment malfunctioning.

　　Power adapters with surge protection are designed to handle these sudden voltage spikes. One common method of surge protection is the use of metal - oxide varistors (MOVs). MOVs are semiconductor devices that have a non - linear electrical resistance. Under normal voltage conditions, an MOV has a very high resistance, allowing only a negligible amount of current to flow through it. However, when a voltage surge occurs, the resistance of the MOV drops rapidly, diverting the excess current away from the device being powered and safely to the ground.

　　Another approach to surge protection is the use of transient voltage suppressor (TVS) diodes. Similar to MOVs, TVS diodes are designed to protect against voltage surges. They can quickly respond to voltage spikes and clamp the voltage to a safe level. Some power adapters may also incorporate a combination of MOVs, TVS diodes, and filtering capacitors to provide multi - stage surge protection.

　　In addition to these components, power adapters may have built - in circuitry to detect abnormal voltage levels. When a surge is detected, the adapter can temporarily cut off the power supply to the device or adjust its internal voltage regulation to prevent damage. Surge protection not only safeguards the immediate device but also helps to extend the lifespan of the power adapter itself by protecting its internal components from the harmful effects of voltage surges.

Read recommendations:

12W side plug British standard Switching power supply

24-36W Charger

24W desk Switching power supply

UL announces the effective date of UL/EN 62368-1

Power Adapter Detection Methods