The NEMA Surge Protection Institute (NSPI) is an educational outreach effort initiated by the Low Voltage Surge Protective Devices Section of the National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA), a not-for-profit trade association. Our mission is to heighten awareness of the benefits of surge protection to all users of low voltage electrical systems in North America for the purpose of promoting proper application and usage.
Surges, or transients, are brief overvoltage spikes or disturbances on a power waveform that can damage, degrade, or destroy electronic equipment within any home, commercial building, industrial, or manufacturing facility. Transients can reach amplitudes of tens of thousands of volts. Learn more.
This guide is the first in a new series intended to guide the evaluation, specification, and use of SPD’s deployed in low-voltage power distribution system applications. | Download
NEMA VSP 1-2017 | Susceptibility of Electrical and Electronic Components to Surge Damage
The purpose of this paper is to present the test results of actual devices in a real-world surge environment and will generate information on the surge susceptibility for various electrical components. | Download
NEMA VSP P2-2019 | Impact of Surges on Equipment: Susceptibility of Electronics to Surge Damage
The intent of this paper is not to evaluate the safety and/or product performance of companies installed electrical systems, but to create awareness and offer guidance based on real-world testing of protection that will help prevent problems with products. | Download
Surges or transients can damage, degrade or destroy the sensitive electronic equipment in offices or businesses resulting in: equipment downtime, losses in revenue, and productivity losses.
Read MoreSurges do not explain all of the voltage-related power quality issues. There are many other power quality issues that users should be aware of.
Read MoreGrounding and bonding are the framework for providing a safe electrical system, ensuring there is a connection to establish continuity and conductivity.
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