Surge Arrestors

Protect Your GPS/GNSS System from Lightning-Induced Surges

GPS and GNSS antennas are typically installed outdoors, making them vulnerable to electrical surges caused by lightning and other transient events.

Masterclock Surge Arrestors provide an additional layer of protection between the outdoor antenna and the connected timing equipment. Designed specifically for GPS antenna systems, these DC-passing RF surge arrestors help reduce the risk of surge-related damage while maintaining the signal path required for reliable satellite reception.

With operation up to 3 GHz, low insertion loss and a compact design, they are suitable for a wide range of GPS/GNSS timing installations.

Key Features

• Up to 3 GHz frequency range for GPS/GNSS antenna applications
• 50 Ω impedance for RF signal compatibility
• Less than 0.2 dB insertion loss to minimise signal attenuation
• DC-passing design allows the antenna system to operate normally
• Designed to help protect equipment against lightning-induced surges
• Low-throughput energy during lightning events
• Compact construction for installations with limited space
• SMA connectors for convenient integration
• Operating temperature range of -40°C to +85°C
• Weather-resistant when properly mated
• Can be deployed in configurations using up to two surge arrestors for enhanced protection

Why Use a Surge Arrestor?

A GPS/GNSS antenna is often mounted on a rooftop, tower or other exposed location to provide a clear view of the sky. This makes the antenna installation one of the more vulnerable parts of a timing system.

Installing a surge arrestor in the antenna signal path can help protect sensitive equipment such as master clocks, NTP servers and GNSS receivers from damaging transient energy.

For critical timing installations, surge protection should be considered as part of the overall antenna installation rather than as an optional afterthought.

Ideal for GPS/GNSS Timing Applications

Masterclock surge arrestors are suitable for applications including:

• Precision timing systems
• Master clock installations
• NTP servers
• Telecommunications infrastructure
• Data centres
• Broadcast facilities
• Aerospace & defense
• Critical infrastructure

Protect Your Timing Investment

A relatively small investment in appropriate antenna surge protection can help reduce the risk of costly damage to the timing equipment connected to an exposed outdoor GPS/GNSS antenna.

Need help selecting the right surge protection for your Masterclock installation?

Contact Empirical Testing Solutions for technical assistance and a quotation.