• Is a SPD the Same as a TVSS?

    Article 285 covers general requirements and installation & connection requirements for SPDs permanently installed on premises wiring systems 1kV or less.
    Nov. 6, 2014

    Transient voltage surge suppressors (TVSSs) are also known as Type 2 and Type 3 surge protective devices (SPDs).

    a) True
    b) False

    See answer and applicable Code reference

    The correct answer is: a) True

    Article 285 covers general requirements and installation & connection requirements for SPDs permanently installed on premises wiring systems 1kV or less. As shown in Informational Note No. 2, "Transient voltage surge suppressors (TVSSs) are also known as Type 2 and Type 3 SPDs."

    About the Author

    Mike Holt

    Mike Holt is the owner of Mike Holt Enterprises (www.MikeHolt.com), one of the largest electrical publishers in the United States. He earned a master's degree in the Business Administration Program (MBA) from the University of Miami. He earned his reputation as a National Electrical Code (NEC) expert by working his way up through the electrical trade. Formally a construction editor for two different trade publications, Mike started his career as an apprentice electrician and eventually became a master electrician, an electrical inspector, a contractor, and an educator. Mike has taught more than 1,000 classes on 30 different electrical-related subjects — ranging from alarm installations to exam preparation and voltage drop calculations. He continues to produce seminars, videos, books, and online training for the trade as well as contribute monthly Code content to EC&M magazine.

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