Patent ID: 6212048
Filing Date: 2001-04-03
Classification: H02H

Abstract:
Combination ground fault circuit interrupter/surge suppressor apparatus adapted to be connected to first and second AC power lines and which provides overvoltage protection for the AC power lines without using a separate ground conductor, the apparatus comprising:(a) an AC overvoltage protection circuit connected between the AC power lines for protecting against voltage surges on the AC power lines;(b) a ground fault circuit interrupter connected to the AC overvoltage protection circuit and connected in series with the AC power lines;(c) at least one AC power receptacle having two AC power terminals and one ground terminal, the receptacle being electrically connected to the AC overvoltage protection circuit, the ground fault circuit interrupter and the AC power lines; and(d) a virtual ground circuit connected between the ground terminal of the AC power receptacle and the AC power lines for providing a return path to the AC power lines for voltage surges appearing at the AC power receptacle.