Reliable Protection Against Lightning and Power Surges
RF surge arrestors, also known as lightning surge suppressors or protectors, safeguard sensitive electronic equipment such as antennas, computers, and routers from damage caused by power surges and lightning strikes. These small devices are installed in the coaxial cable line to divert dangerous energy away from the connected equipment via a ground strap connected to earth ground. Surge arrestors are especially crucial for outdoor antennas, which are often mounted at the highest point in an area and are more susceptible to lightning strikes. RF surge arrestors are a crucial component of an outdoor communication system, particularly in areas prone to lightning activity. They not only deliver reliable performance and protection, but also peace of mind.
Key Features of RF Surge Arrestors
The selection of RF surge arrestors supports various connector types, such as N-female, F-female, and SMA.
They also offer a wide frequency range, such as 0 to 6 GHz, to ensure compatibility with coaxial cables and antennas. Other key features include:
- Protects high-speed communication lines without signal degradation
- Surge protection is built into the assembly
- Supports a broad range of RF connectors and frequencies
- Built to withstand harsh outdoor conditions
Frequency Ranges and Special Features
The frequency range is an important characteristic that varies among surge suppressor models. They typically operate across a broad spectrum, ranging from as low as 1.5 MHz to 7 GHz, and accommodate a range of popular frequency bands, including cellular, Wi-Fi, VHF, and UHF. This versatility allows users to select a protector that matches their specific wireless system.
Many RF surge protectors incorporate advanced features for enhanced reliability and longevity. Some models, like the PCT-DGXZ+06NFNF-A from PCTEL, offer "multi-strike" capability, meaning they can withstand multiple surges without needing to be replaced. Others are "bi-directional," offering protection from surges coming from either direction along the cable. The Poynting RFLA-SMSF-070 is an example of a bi-directional surge protector. A gas discharge tube (GDT) cartridge is another standard suppressor technology. The gas inside the tube acts as an insulator, preventing excessive voltage from damaging downstream components. After a strike, the damaged cartridge can be easily replaced with a new one. Some products are available as complete kits, such as the Cel-Fi WF-LSP-50-KIT, which includes a ground wire and 5-foot jumper cable for a complete installation. This variety of features enables customers to select the best solution for their unique environmental and operational requirements.
Protect your Equipment with RF Surge Arrestors
Westward Sales offers RF surge protectors from leading manufacturers, including PCTEL, Panorama, Parsec, and Poynting. These essential accessories will keep your network running smoothly. Contact your Westward Sales representative to see how we can outfit your next wireless project. We'll recommend a complete solution, saving you time and money.
