Designed the pcb artwork for a AC port filter module, it redirects the surge transients to earth thus protecting the power supply. The implementation of a hybrid approach using gas discharge tubes (GDTs) and Metal oxide Varistors (MOVs) is essential for AC mains protection as it utilises the switching and clamping properties found in GDTs and MOVs respectively.

Although, It is a simple circuit that incorporates a few components. The board operates at mains voltage so the design must comply with standard edition EN60950-1: 2006 + A13 . Such designs need to have sufficient creepage distance between any conducting elements to prevent any arching and insuring safe operation. The board is housed in a plastic insolating box to prevent any electric shock hazards. This module was tested by injecting ±4𝑘𝑉 surge pulses at the mains of a fire panel with this module in series. The test was a success, without the use of the filter the panel’s internal power supply fuse broke, however, with the filter the fuse was undamaged.

• PlatformAltium,
• StackAltium, EMC Software