How to Choose the Right Varistor for Your Application

Your Guide to buying the best Varistor

Overview

A Varistor is an electrical component used to protect circuits from excessive voltage spikes. It works by rapidly reducing the voltage to a safe level. When shopping for a Varistor, it is important to consider factors such as size, type, frequency rating, and maximum current handling capability. This buying guide will provide all the necessary information you need to make an informed purchase decision and get the most out of your Varistor.

Key features

  1. Surge Protection Rating - The surge protection rating of a varistor will indicate the amount of energy it can absorb before it fails. This should be chosen based on the anticipated level of surge protection needed.
  2. Voltage Rating - The voltage rating of a varistor determines how much energy it can handle before it breaks down. It should be chosen based on the expected voltage levels.
  3. Temperature Range - The temperature range of a varistor is important to consider because it determines how long the device will last. It should be chosen based on the expected environmental conditions it will be exposed to.
  4. Mounting Type - Varistors come in a variety of mounting types, such as through-hole and surface-mount. The mounting type should be chosen based on the application it will be used in.
  5. Current Rating - The current rating of a varistor is important to consider as it determines how much current it can handle before it fails. It should be chosen based on the anticipated current levels.

See the most popular Varistor on Amazon

Important considerations

Pros

  • High Surge Capacity: Varistors can absorb and divert high surges of voltage, providing reliable protection of electronic components.
  • Reliable Protection: Varistors are designed for reliable protection against voltage spikes and other electrical transients.
  • Wide Range of Voltage Ratings: Varistors are available in a wide range of voltage ratings, making them suitable for a variety of applications.
  • Low Cost: Varistors are generally inexpensive compared to other surge protection components.
  • Compact Design: Varistors are typically small in size and lightweight, making them easy to install and store.
  • Robust Construction: Varistors are designed to be robust and reliable, allowing them to withstand harsh operating conditions.

Cons

  • Cost: Varistors can be expensive, depending on the size and type of varistor you need for your application.
  • Environmental Factors: Varistors are sensitive to environmental factors, like temperature and humidity, which can affect their performance.
  • Installation: Varistors can be difficult to install since they are sensitive to handling and other environmental factors.
  • Lifespan: Varistors typically have a limited lifespan due to their sensitivity to environmental factors.
  • Noisy Operation: Varistors can produce a loud noise when they are switching on or off.

Best alternatives

  1. Metal Oxide Varistor (MOV) - a component used to limit voltage surges in an electrical circuit
  2. Arc-Suppression Coil - a coil used to reduce the risk of arc-faults in electrical systems
  3. Surge-Protective Device (SPD) - an electrical device designed to protect electrical equipment from power surges
  4. Transient Voltage Suppressor (TVS) - a component used to absorb transient voltages in a circuit
  5. Lightning and Surge Protector (LSP) - an electrical device used to protect equipment from damage caused by lightning and other power surges

Related tools, supplies, and accessories

  • Resistor - An electrical component that resists the flow of current.
  • Capacitor - An electrical component used to store energy.
  • Transistor - An electrical component used to control electrical signals.
  • Inductor - An electrical component used to create an electromagnetic field.
  • Varistor - An electrical component used to protect circuits from voltage spikes.
  • Test leads - A set of wires used to measure electrical signals.
  • Multimeter - An instrument used to measure electrical signals.
  • Heat sink - A heat-dissipating component used to cool electronic circuits.
  • Protective housing - A protective casing used to safeguard against electrical shock.

Common questions

  1. What is a Varistor? A varistor is a type of voltage-dependent resistor that is used to protect sensitive electronic components from voltage surges.
  2. What are the benefits of using a Varistor? The benefits of using a varistor are that it provides protection from voltage spikes and surges, can be used to limit current and can be used to reduce noise and interference.
  3. What are some common applications for Varistors? Common applications for varistors include surge protection, circuit protection, voltage-sensing, and noise reduction.
  4. What type of Varistor should I buy? The type of varistor you should buy depends on the type of application you need it for. You should also consider the voltage and current ratings you need, the size of the varistor, and the type of material it is made from.
  5. Where can I buy Varistors? Varistors can be bought from electronics suppliers, hardware stores, or online retailers.
  6. Are Varistors expensive? Varistors vary in price depending on the type, size, and voltage ratings. Generally, varistors are not too expensive and can range from just a few dollars to hundreds of dollars.

Trivia

One interesting fact about Varistor is that it was first developed by engineers working on the Apollo 11 mission in 1969. Varistors are electronic components that protect circuits from large voltage spikes, and they were used in the development of the Apollo 11 spacecraft. This was a major development in the field of electronics and enabled engineers to design more advanced and reliable circuits. The development of Varistor is an important moment in the history of space exploration. Source: Wikipedia - Varistor.

Disclaimer: This buying guide was not created by humans, and it is possible that some of it's content is inaccurate or incomplete. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this buying guide. Additionally, the images on this page were generated by AI and may not accurately represent the product that is being discussed. We have tried to convey useful information, but it is our subjective opinion and should not be taken as complete or factual.