A surface-mount multi-layer electrical circuit protection device with an active element between PPTC layers

There is disclosed an electrical circuit for connection between an electrical energy source and an electrical load, the circuit being formed on a circuit substrate and having at least one surface-mounted electrical circuit protection device. The surface-mounted electrical circuit protection device comprises a first polymeric positive temperature coefficient resistive ("PPTC") element and a second PPTC element; and at least one heat-generating electrical component positioned between the first and second PPTC elements and in effective thermal contact such that an electrical current above a threshold level passing through the component causes the component to heat, the heat being transferred to the PPTC elements and increasing the resistance of the first or second PPTC elements. A method for making the circuit protection device is also disclosed.