Power controller is switch and breaker combined: News from E-T-A Circuit Breakers

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A novel remote power controller combines the capability of an electronic switching relay with self-limiting characteristics and optimised overcurrent protection similar to that of a high quality circuit breaker. Optional functions include diagnostic LEDs and electronic status signals. The all-in-one power controller module can replace several components and all their interconnections.

It is suitable for wide ranging applications for resistive, inductive and capacitive loads including use in vehicles, on land and sea, in telecommunications, and in the process industry.

The new E-T-A E-1048-8xx power module is a remotely operated electronic power controller available for direct plug-in mounting, packaged either in an 11.5mm-wide inline housing for EN rail mounting, or in a 30 x 30mm cubic housing to fit standard relay sockets.

Both styles are available to control a wide range of load currents from 1 to 25A, for use in ambient temperatures from -40 to +85C without the need for derating.

They will operate on all power supplies from 9 to 36V DC.

Compared with traditional electromechanical relays, the use of power electronics for internal switching means the controllers are effectively "wear-free" and insensitive to shock and vibration.

They also use far less power than electromechanical relays.

The new E-T-A power controllers provide detection of overloads and short circuits, all in the same unit.

The tripping characteristic is similar to that of a quality circuit breaker, thus providing added protection and avoiding nuisance tripping.

The load circuit is automatically disconnected under specified conditions and will not restart before a valid reset signal.

The fully featured models provide permanent monitoring of the load circuit for wire breakage, either when the load is on or off.

Two LEDs on the housing provide status indication of the module.

A yellow LED indicates the application of a control signal (AM), and a red LED indicates a group fault signal (FM).

The FM signal is triggered when there is a wire breakage, short circuit or overload in the load circuit.

The power module also supplies an analogue voltage proportional to the load.

This enables power management systems to react to the changing value of load current.

For switching and monitoring loads higher than 25A, multiple units can wired in parallel.

The 7-pin inline version push fits into an E-T-A type 17-P10-Si EN rail mounting socket.

The 7-pin cubic version fits into standard automotive power relay sockets.

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Power controller is switch and breaker combined

A novel remote power controller combines the capability of an electronic switching relay with self-limiting and overcurrent protection similar to that of a high quality circuit breaker.