The invention is a MOV based surge arrester that uses MOVs manufactured from a recently patented process. These new technology MOVs are significantly more uniform in their composition, resulting in more uniform performance. Each MOV is packaged by placing it between a pair of contact plates, preferably manufactured from aluminum. This packaging significantly increases the surface area between the contact plates and the MOVs. Wiring is minimized. Also, the use of the metal plates increases the ability of a surge suppresser to remove the heat generated in severe over-voltage situations. The preferred embodiment teaches conductor wires soldered to a disk in a grid pattern. The grid pattern provides a low empedance connection and prevents failure of the MOV at a lower than expected voltage. Grid patterns can include spiral, serpentine S, and square patterns.