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SURGE PROTECTION

IEC 61643 Series — Surge Protective Devices

The IEC 61643 series supports SPD product requirements, testing, selection and application for low-voltage power, DC and telecom/signalling networks.

SN Engineering use: This is an original engineering summary for project understanding. It does not reproduce the purchased standard. Final design must use the applicable official standard edition, project specification and authority requirements.

General SPD framework

IEC 61643-01:2024 contains common requirements and test methods for SPDs used against lightning effects and other transient overvoltages on low-voltage circuits.

AC low-voltage systems

IEC 61643-11:2025 applies to SPDs connected to AC low-voltage power systems. Application and coordination principles are addressed by IEC 61643-12:2020.

Telecom / signalling

IEC 61643-21:2025 applies to SPDs connected to telecommunications and signalling networks, including networks that may also carry power such as PoE.

DC / PV-related circuits

IEC 61643-41:2025 applies to SPDs connected to DC low-voltage power systems up to the stated scope limits. PV projects require coordinated review with the relevant system and IEC 62305-4 concepts.

Engineering Reference Table

StandardUse
IEC 61643-01:2024Common SPD requirements / tests.
IEC 61643-11:2025AC low-voltage SPD product requirements.
IEC 61643-12:2020Selection and application principles for AC power SPDs.
IEC 61643-21:2025Telecom/signalling SPDs.
IEC 61643-41:2025DC low-voltage SPDs.

Project Implementation Checklist

For an actual project, record the applicable standard edition, risk-assessment assumptions, approved drawings, selected design method, calculation revision, component specification, inspection/testing requirements and final engineering approval.

Official Source

Use the official issuing body's publication for the controlled standard text and current status.

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