Gas tube arresters (GTA) or gas discharge tubes (GDT) provide protection against voltage and current surges in electronic and electrical equipment. Surges can occur naturally or by numerous other means of origin. Natural surges may be the result of lightning or electrostatic discharge. Other surges frequently result from induction loads, electric grid switches, motors, compressors, etc. Gas tube arresters and gas discharge tubes are often used with voice / data, optical transmission applications, alarm systems, modems, security systems, audio systems, and antennas.
Gas tube arresters or gas discharge tubes are produced in ceramic, glass, silicone, and porcelain. GTAs and GDTs are available in various electrode designs and can be surface-mounted and are well suited for high-voltage applications. Electrode gas tube arresters are a type of discharge tube used for surge protection. These GTAs can be coated in gold, carbon, or platinum with spark gaps and triggered spark gas. Electrode gas tube arresters protect against high-energy surges. They can also be used with sensitive equipment and are useful in high-frequency applications. High-voltage gas tube arresters are also commonly used in communication networks and with industrial and commercial electronics.