gas discharge tubes

Gas discharge tubes are devices that allow electric current to pass through a gas when a specific voltage is applied. They are commonly used for protection against voltage spikes, like those from lightning strikes. When the voltage exceeds a certain level, the gas inside ionizes, turning it into a conductor and allowing the surge to pass through safely. Once the surge is gone, the gas returns to its non-conductive state. This makes gas discharge tubes important in safeguarding electrical equipment from damage. They are often found in surge protectors and lightning protection systems.