Best Practices for Surge Protection Devices

Environment:

• Rise series 
• Ethernet Surge Protection part #  7412009-001
  Note: Unit must be connected to earth ground

Best Practices:

The purpose of this section is to provide recommendations regarding the proper selection and use of Surge Protection Devices (SPDs) in CCTV systems.

This section is not meant to provide guidance for SPDs selection, placement, and use on incoming utility power. Always follow local and national electric code and refer to licensed electricians or other trained professionals for guidance.

Surge Protection Devices are designed to prevent damage to equipment caused by transient voltages from a number of possible sources. Due to their exposure to the environment, when planning the installation of a CostarHD camera system, SPDs must be appropriately installed.

Depending on the exact equipment being installed, one or more SPD types must be used to properly protect from damage caused by electrical surge. There are several types of SPDs:

• AC Power SPDs
• Ethernet SPDs
• Power over Ethernet (PoE) SPDs
• Analog Video SPDs
• Low-Voltage DC (Serial Data) SPDs

Each SPD type is designed for a specific application and is only rated to work within the nominal voltage levels of that application. To provide protection, it is critical that the SPD for your application be of the appropriate type and ratings. Refer to the SPD manufacturer for proper device selection for your application.

Placement of SPDs is critical. Per IEEE, NEMA, and industry guidelines, an SPD should be installed within four feet of the equipment it is protecting. Additionally, SPDs should be installed at each end of all cables greater than thirty feet in length. In most CCTV applications, this means that a minimum of two SPDs must be used: one near the camera, and one in the control cabinet that provides network connectivity and power.

Proper orientation is key on many SPDs as they often have PROTECTED and UNPROTECTED terminals, or DEVICE and LINE terminals. For a typical CCTV application, the UNPROTECTED or LINE terminals should be used to connect the upper and lower SPDs, while the PROTECTED or DEVICE terminals should connect to the camera and network switch (or PoE injector). An incorrectly oriented SPD will appear to function as voltage will still pass through it, however when installed backwards, the device will not provide full protection. Always verify the orientation of each SPD and contact the manufacturer for assistance.

Lastly, an SPD can only function if it is properly grounded. Unless a lower value is required to meet your local or project-specific specifications, the grounding array that the SPD is connected to should be no more than 10Ω. All wiring from the ground connection of the SPD should be as short and straight as possible, and all connections should be properly crimped and securely fastened.

Example: Refer to the installation manual for more information.