Practical design considerations for the successful application of clamp type transient suppressors

Clamp type transient suppressors are widely used to protect electronic equipment from damage during short periods of abnormal voltage on supply lines. However, the action of these suppressors, in conjunction with stray circuit elements, can induce secondary transient effects which may also disrupt equipment operation. This paper discusses the nature and origin of these secondary effects, and provides a basic background for the designer to utilize in evaluating and understanding problems which may arise in a specific application.