Ground Loops

(Difference in ground potential)

Ground Loop: An errant galvanic path within a system or instrument caused by

unwanted circuit connections provided by the earth or chassis ground.
Ground: Common reference point having a potential that does not change as a
function of current supplied to or withdrawn from it.
Ground loops are not stopped by TVSS (transient voltage surge suppressor) in
fact some surge suppressors can introduce a ground loop to an already isolated
circuit. Take the video security installation shown below as an example of an
isolated camera powered by an outlet. What would happen if you installed a
TVSS device that required grounding at the camera location? Do you see the
ground loop it would create. Note, the camera is mounted to be isolated from
the pole it is mounted on.
AC Power
via TVSS
24 VAC

BNC - C/V
via Coaxial
Pole TVSS Monitor or
Video Head
Isolator of End Equpt.
Plastic or AC Power
Some Installation
Camera other without a ground loop. Single
material
point ground reference, electrical ground only.
No ground loop present.

TVSS Ground
Wire AC TVSS
Installed
AC Power Heere
via TVSS
24 VAC

BNC - C/V
via Coaxial Monitor or
Pole TVSS Video Head
Isolator of End Equpt.
Plastic or AC Power
Some other
material

AC TVSS
Camera Installation with a ground Installed
Loop caused by the TVSS device..