This Recommendation gives the basic requirements to be met by Metal Oxide Varistors (MOVs) for the protection of power circuits and signal circuits of telecommunications installations from surges. The purpose of this Recommendation is to provide technical guidelines for purchasers and manufacturers of MOVs to ensure their satisfactory operation in the applications for which they are intended. This Recommendation is intended to be used for the harmonization of existing or future specifications issued by MOV manufactures, telecommunication equipment manufactures, administrations or network operators.