Advanced RF input port against surge

A bi-directional RF signal amplifier, comprising:

• a power regulation circuit that is configured to generate a power supply voltage in response to power received from an external source;
• an RF input port;
• power surge suppression circuitry connected to said RF input port;
• a first RF output port;
• a second RF output port;
• a first communications path that extends between said RF input port and said first RF output port, said first communications path including a power amplifier that is configured to amplify downstream signals passing from said RF input port to said first RF output port;
• and
• a second, non-interruptible communications path that extends between said RF input port and said second RF output port, wherein said second, non-interruptible communications path is configured to support both downstream and upstream RF communications even in the absence of power from the external source;
• wherein said power surge suppression circuitry includes:
• a data line connected to said RF input port;
• a ground;
• a first circuit path electrically connected between said data line and said ground;
• a gas discharge tube within said first circuit path, which acts as an open circuit when a voltage across said gas discharge tube is less than a predetermined value and which acts as an short circuit when the voltage across said gas discharge tube exceeds the predetermined voltage;
• and
• an electronic device in series with said gas discharge tube within said first circuit path, wherein said electronic device is a disconnection device to create an open circuit condition in said first circuit path, wherein said disconnection device is a relay, and wherein said relay has two stable states, with a first stable state connecting said gas discharge tube to said ground and a second stable state which disconnects said gas discharge tube from said ground.