What is a MOV?

MOV stands for Metal Oxide Varistor. It is a type of electronic component that is primarily used for surge suppression. MOVs are commonly used in electronic circuits to protect against voltage spikes or surges. They are designed to absorb excess voltage and limit the voltage to a safe level. MOVs are made of a metal oxide material that exhibits non-linear resistance, which means that their resistance changes with the applied voltage.

How Does a MOV Work?

MOV works by absorbing high voltage spikes or surges. When the voltage across the MOV rises above its threshold voltage (known as the clamping voltage), the resistance of the MOV drops significantly, allowing it to conduct current. This allows the MOV to absorb the excess voltage and protect the circuit from damage. MOVs are designed to be self-recovering, which means that they automatically return to their normal state once the excess voltage is removed.

Applications of MOVs

MOVs are commonly used in a variety of electronic applications, including power supplies, motor controls, lighting systems, and telecommunications equipment. They are often used in combination with other surge protection devices, such as fuses and circuit breakers, to provide multiple layers of protection against voltage spikes and surges. MOVs are also used in surge suppressors that are used to protect electronic equipment, such as computers and televisions, from power surges that can occur during thunderstorms or other voltage fluctuations in the electrical system.

Example of MOV in Action

An example of how MOVs are used in practical applications is in a power strip surge protector. When an electrical surge occurs, the MOVs inside the power strip detect the surge and absorb the excess voltage, protecting any electronic devices that are plugged into the strip. Without the MOVs, the surge could cause damage to the electronic devices, potentially causing them to fail or malfunction. By using MOVs, the power strip surge protector provides an additional layer of protection against voltage spikes and surges.