The Ametek Group comprises over 175 world-class brands, with businesses operating globally across six key sectors: commercial aviation, automation & manufacturing, test & measurement & inspection, healthcare, energy production & supply, and research & development. Solving the most challenging problems to make the world a better place – that is what Ametek has always been about. Each month, Ametek introduces one of its brands – hence the "Brand Story" series. This month, we focus on SurgeX, a specialist in power surge protection.

Since 1989, SurgeX has been an innovator in power quality, providing power surge protection products that ensure optimal performance of electronic equipment. SurgeX combines true surge elimination, EMI/RFI filtering, and unmatched analytics software to help businesses control grid instability. Like the award‑winning Vertical Series, this Ametek business unit offers comprehensive power protection and conditioning for the audiovisual industry.

Our History

The SurgeX technology originated when scientists in New Jersey encountered unstable electric fields from wall outlets during gel electrophoresis – a critical process for accurate DNA and RNA analysis. The team brought in an engineer with a background in ground tracking and missile defense, who soon identified the limitations of existing surge suppressors (using metal‑oxide varistors, or MOVs).

This engineer developed a new solution – Series Mode® protection circuitry. This innovative technology filters out high‑frequency noise and safely dissipates low‑frequency surge energy, without degrading over time or contaminating the ground. This solution not only solved the scientists' problem but also laid the groundwork for SurgeX's breakthrough in the audiovisual industry.

In 1995, SurgeX launched the SA‑15, ushering in a new era of power protection by delivering clean, stable power and eliminating electrical interference. SurgeX continued to push boundaries, introducing Advanced Series Mode® technology in 2005. This new technology eliminated all surge energy, providing greater reliability for sensitive equipment and thus delivering superior surge protection.

From solving laboratory power issues to focusing on audiovisual power protection, SurgeX's journey demonstrates innovation and an unwavering commitment to quality.