What are safety systems designed to protect circuits from damage due to unusual conditions called?

The correct term for safety systems that are specifically designed to protect electrical circuits from damage caused by unusual conditions is circuit protection systems. These systems encompass a variety of devices that monitor electrical conditions and intervene when necessary to prevent overheating, short circuits, or overcurrent situations. They may include fuses, circuit breakers, and other types of protective devices that react to fault conditions by interrupting the circuit, thereby safeguarding both the equipment and the users.

In contrast, voltage regulators are used to maintain a constant voltage level, while surge suppressors are designed specifically to protect against voltage spikes or surges within the circuit. Power inverters convert direct current (DC) to alternating current (AC) and are not intended for circuit protection. Therefore, the distinction lies in the primary function of these systems, where circuit protection systems focus specifically on safeguarding the integrity of electrical circuits.