TABLE OF CONTENTS The requirement for electronic information technology systems not to be disturbed or even damaged by direct or close-up lightning strikes has led to new quality requirements and a new dimension in the area of lightning protection engineering. Lightning protection has been integrated into the world of electromagnetic compatibility (EMC). The so-created concept of lightning protection zones has turned out to be a very efficient management method and is proven as a universal organizing principle in numerous complex problems. Meanwhile, the concept of lightning protection zones has been specified as generally the method most appropriate for the protection of any kind of structure with electronic equipment. To this end the Technical Committee (TC) 81 of the International Electro-technical Commission (IEC) has elaborated upon the standard which shows the principles for protection against 'electromagnetic lightning pulses'. This has been published as IEC 61312-1.
This book has introduced practice-proven components and protective devices by which it is possible to plan and realize complete lightning/surge protection concepts for many kinds of complex systems and structures. The protective measures exemplified and devices available are applicable, not only in new projects but also in existing systems which can be retrofitted so that a sufficient protection can still be attained. Subsequent installation, however, will be at higher cost and with a lower efficiency.
The standards committees are currently working on standards which treat the following subjects:
risk analysis as to the failure of electronic systems due to lightning
electromagnetic shielding effects of existing metal structure components...
