Lightning protection for microprocessor-based electronic systems

The issues of lightning threats, suppressor components, and guidelines for selection and placement of protectors are addressed. Case histories are also reviewed. It is noted that current complex, multifunctional electronic systems are composed mainly of sophisticated microcircuits that are extremely vulnerable to lightning-caused transient voltage spikes. Properly selected and installed surge protection devices have a long history of proven capability in virtually eliminating costly downtime and repairs. Telecommunication station protectors usually allow voltage spikes of 500 V or more to pass on through to downstream equipment. They are designed for protection of personnel and also equipment that the telephone company connects to the system. Modems and other interfaces may not have built-in hardness to sustain 500 V spikes or adequately protect against temporary malfunctions. Supplemental protective devices for modems and other signal lines can boost transient immunity by orders of magnitude with a relatively low investment