Definition

Noun: - A protective electrical device: A spike arrester is a device installed in a power line or electrical circuit. Its primary function is to protect sensitive electronic equipment by limiting or diverting sudden, brief, and potentially damaging increases in voltage (known as spikes or surges).

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • Installing a spike arrester on the main panel can prevent damage to your appliances during a lightning storm.
  • The technician recommended a high-quality spike arrester for the server room's power supply.
  • This power strip includes a built-in spike arrester for basic protection.

Advanced Usage

• Technical Context: In electrical engineering, a spike arrester is often discussed alongside terms like "transient voltage surge suppressor (TVSS)" or "surge protective device (SPD)," though specific designs may vary.
  • The specification sheet details the clamping voltage and response time of the spike arrester.

Variants and Related Words

• Surge arrester (n): A common synonym for spike arrester, often used interchangeably in technical contexts.
  • The building's electrical code requires a surge arrester at the service entrance.
• Lightning arrester (n): A specific type of surge protection device designed primarily to handle the massive energy from a direct or nearby lightning strike.
  • Tall structures are equipped with a lightning arrester connected to a grounding rod.

Synonyms

• Surge protector: A device designed to protect against voltage spikes.
• Transient suppressor: A device that suppresses transient overvoltages.

Related Phrases

• To install a spike arrester: The action of putting this protective device into a circuit.
  • It is crucial to install a spike arrester correctly for it to function properly.
• Spike arrester rating: Refers to the device's specifications, such as its energy absorption capacity (in joules) or its clamping voltage.
  • Always check the spike arrester rating to ensure it is suitable for your equipment.

Noun

1. electrical device inserted in a power line to protect equipment from sudden fluctuations in current