Axing QEW 5-10 Overvoltage protection device

It is statistically proven that strong atmospheric disturbances occur more frequently. Every year, about two million lightning strikes hit Germany. They generate 100,000 A (100 kA) of current and 10 million volts (10 MV) of voltage. Lightning in the immediate vicinity can also have significant field strengths affecting the antenna system. Generally, people protect their buildings with lightning protection systems and surge protection devices.

The threat to electronic devices due to strong electromagnetic shock fields, which build up in pulses, is far more common than a direct lightning strike. Insurance companies have claimed that in around 11,000 electronic damage cases, "surge" was a common factor in 33% of the incidents.

Devices with internal lightning protection and potential equalization are protected against such damage. They quickly discharge the voltage induced in the field's wiring system by lightning into the ground.