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Transients and Their Effects on Computer Systems
Transient voltages are potentially the most damaging of all power disturbances, and can have severe effects on computer systems. These occurrences include extremely high levels of current and/or voltage, which can be destructive to a network.
The effects of these disturbances can be quite dire, often leading to electronic equipment malfunction or corrupt data. Electronic device efficiency can be reduced. Transients also degrade circuit breakers and switches, cause lights to fail and shut down entire systems. The disturbances can have many different causes. Lightning strikes, loose connections, human error and switching activities all contribute to transient voltages. Transients fall into two categories: impulsive and oscillatory. Each type of transient is also subdivided into three different subcategories.
"Transient voltages are potentially the most damaging of all power disturbances."
Impulsive Transients
Impulsive transients are sudden, quick changes that raise the voltage for a short period of time, usually around five nanoseconds. These are the most common type of power surge or spike, according to Michael Maiello of Schneider Electric. Generally, these are not transmitted far from the source, but they can travel along utility lines. Impulsive transients usually occur when a capacitor or motor is switched off. Impulsive transients are subdivided by duration. Their subcategories are nanosecond, microsecond and millisecond.
Oscillatory Transients
Oscillatory transients, or ringing transients, occur when the power level swings above and below the normal amount. Power Quality World defines an oscillatory transient as "a sudden, non–power frequency change in the steady-state condition of voltage, current, or both that has both positive and negative polarity values." Oscillatory transients are divided by their frequencies: low, medium and high.
A proper UPS system is required to protect your computers against transient voltages. Custom Networks provides APC products, which offer the best power protection solutions. Contact us to learn more about how we can help you prepare your system to avoid expensive downtime.
