AC power outlet strips with surge suppressors typically include at least one of which component?

AC power outlet strips with surge suppressors are designed to protect electronic devices from voltage spikes or surges that can occur due to lightning strikes, power outages, or other electrical disturbances. One of the key components found in these surge suppressors is a Metal Oxide Varistor (MOV).

The MOV operates by clamping the excess voltage that exceeds a predetermined threshold. When a surge occurs, the MOV absorbs the extra voltage, thereby diverting it away from the connected devices and preventing potential damage. This rapid response to surge events is crucial for protecting sensitive electronic equipment, making the MOV an essential part of surge suppressor technology.

Other components, such as fuses or transformers, have different roles in electrical circuits. Fuses provide overcurrent protection by breaking the circuit when a certain current limit is exceeded, while transformers convert power levels rather than functioning to suppress surges. Therefore, while these components may be important in other contexts, they do not serve the surge protection purpose that the MOV specifically provides.