A Metal Oxide Varistor is an electronic component that is used to protect electronic circuits from overvoltage conditions. A MOV is a type of voltage-dependent resistor (VDR) that is designed to conduct electrical current when a voltage above a certain threshold is applied across its terminals. The MOV consists of a metal oxide semiconductor material, such as zinc oxide, that is sandwiched between two metal electrodes. When the voltage across the Metal Oxide Varistor exceeds its breakdown voltage, the metal oxide material conducts electrical current, effectively shunting the excess voltage away from the circuit.