Circuit Breaker has built-in protection and analog output.
Press Release Summary:
Series E-1048-800 Circuit Breaker combines solid-state switching, electronic circuit protection, analog signal output, and diagnostic functions. Analog output of 0-5 V proportional to current flowing through device can be connected to PLC or ASIC microcontroller. Programmable trip point can be programmed for current ratings from 0-20 A. Solid-state current limiting feature limits max short circuit current to 50 A. Unit also provides visual indication and transistor diagnostic signal.
Original Press Release:
E-T-A Announces Remote Power Controller Utilizing Smart Circuit Breaker Technology
Advanced Device Has Built-in Protection Plus Unique Analog Output
Chicago, February 23, 2004 -- At the National Design Engineering Show, E-T-A Circuit Breakers unveiled the E-1048-800 smart circuit breaker. Designed with solid state technology to provide relay control, the E-1048-800 is the first device of its kind to combine solid-state switching, electronic circuit protection, analog signal output, and diagnostic functions. Now design engineers using relays and circuit breakers (or relays and fuses) can replace those two devices with a single compact unit, plus get the benefits of emerging "smart" circuit protection technology. The new device saves space, saves time, increases reliability, and provides unprecedented protection.
The E-1048-800 power controller is suited for switching DC loads in automotive and automation applications, and for low voltage DC or multiplex control systems used in power circuits on boats and other vehicles.
Unique Smart Relay Control
Its most unusual feature is a 0-5V analog output that is proportional to the current flowing through the device. If this output is connected to a control system such as a programmable logic controller (PLC) or ASIC microcontroller, the signal can be used to provide intelligent relay control. For example, a PLC may be programmed to turn off the device if the circuit current reaches a predetermined and programmable threshold.
Programmable Trip Point
Normally, the trip point of a circuit breaker is defined as a range, but with the help of a PLC, the trip point of the E-1048-800 can be precisely defined and set remotely. This means one E-1048-800 device can be used for any current rating from 0 to 20A. Traditional circuit breakers do not offer this flexibility nor this degree of precision.
Whether remotely controlled or not, the E-1048-800 will trip off automatically at its current rating. If higher current ratings are required, multiple units may be mounted in parallel.
Unique Current Limiting Technology
A traditional circuit breaker will respond to a short circuit within milliseconds, but in that brief time, high amperage may pass through the circuit. In contrast, the circuit protection in the E-1048-800 is current limiting. Solid state technology limits the maximum short circuit current to approximately 50A. This feature is especially important for sensitive control components. Unlike some competing products, it provides precise delay that prevents nuisance tripping caused by inrush currents associated with solenoids and motor loads.
Transistor Diagnostic Signal
In addition to the analog output, the E-1048-800 provides visual indication and a transistor output that can be used in a control system as the input for an alarm. In this way, the device can alert operators to problems such as overload, no load, or a broken circuit caused by broken wires or resistive elements. In addition, the unit provides LED indication of overloads, wire breakage detection, and status of load and line. Not all SSRPCs supply detailed diagnostic information, which is increasingly required by controls systems as a way to reduce downtime.
Amplifies PLC Outputs
The E-1048-800 protects PLCs from overloads and short circuits while it also provides power amplification of PLC output signals, without the need to change PLC output cards. It minimizes costly downtime by protecting PLC output circuits and monitoring PLC output status.
Convenient Form Factors
The E-1048-800 is available in two form factors. The cubic version is a replacement for relays that plug into standard automotive relay sockets. The inline version is a plug-in style commonly used in industrial applications. Industrial uses include process control and automation equipment used in the food, pharmaceutical, petrochemical, and power utility industries. OEM applications include buses, trucks, boats, and off-road vehicles.
Because the functions of relay, circuit protection, diagnostics, and current sensing are combined in one unit, the E-1048-800 installs in one-tenth the time it takes to integrate these components separately.
Price and Availability
E-T-A's new E-1048-800 combination control/protection device is available 4 to 6 weeks ARO. Priced at $35.00 in volume.
About E-T-A
E-T-A Circuit Breakers is the world's leading manufacturer of circuit breakers for OEM equipment and is the only resource for all circuit protection technologies: thermal, thermal-magnetic, magnetic and high performance. E-T-A circuit breakers are available in more than 150 models and 350,000 different configurations. E-T-A is also a world-leading manufacturer of control and monitoring products, and solid-state remote power controllers (SSRPCs). With the North American headquarters in Chicago, the company serves industrial OEMs and end-users.
