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Technical Terms

Overvoltage Protection (OVP) is a safety feature in a power supply that protects both the power supply and the connected load by shutting down the output if the voltage exceeds a predetermined safe level.

Common causes of input-side overvoltage include external events like lightning strikes or power line surges. Output-side overvoltage, however, often results from an internal failure in the power supply's regulation circuit or from an external voltage being applied to the output terminals.

Without OVP, an overvoltage event can damage or destroy sensitive electronic components such as ICs, capacitors, and resistors. In severe cases, this can lead to overheating and pose a fire hazard. Therefore, overvoltage protection is an essential feature for reliable and safe operation.

OVP is implemented using various circuit techniques. Common methods include using a comparator IC to monitor the voltage and trigger a shutdown, or employing components like Zener diodes or Transient Voltage Suppression (TVS) diodes to clamp the voltage at a safe level.

Overvoltage protection (OVP) circuits are also used in many power supply ICs and power supply devices. Many of Matsusada Precision's power supply devices are equipped with Overvoltage protection (OVP).

FAQ: How long does the protection work time?

Overvoltage Protection (OVP) | Technical Terms: Power Supplies | Matsusada Precision