November 2005

POWER ENTRY MODULE OFFERS ENHANCED DESIGN
New DF series circuit breaker module has recessed switch

The DF11 and DF12 series is a generation remake of the successful 6145 and 5145
power entry modules, Schurter’s first circuit breaker and power entry combination modules. The new DF series offers a recessed switch to prevent accidental actuation. The filtered
unit, DF12, screw mounts to the chassis through a full metal casing. The unfiltered unit,
DF11, offers screw-on or snap-in mounting.

The circuit breaker and power entry combination is suited for high inrush currents and
high transient loads, providing a practical solution over fused modules with inherent
power dissipation limitations. The circuit breaker has a manual reset feature with
1- or 2-pole thermal overload protection, or no bi-metal for 2-pole on/off switching only.
An undervoltage release, to detect power loss and protect against unwanted restart, or
remote trip release are available options. The switch has a variety of colors, illumination
and legend options, providing circuit status indication depending on the switch
position (I/O).

Background
A circuit breaker is selected instead of fuses when manual reset is a desired function of
the equipment. This can be highly desirable when tolerance of high inrush spikes is
needed to avoid nuisance tripping. The ability to manually reset the circuit avoids the
expense and inconvenience of fuse replacement.

Circuit breaker modules provide an additional benefit over fused modules. Fuse modules
are typically rated 10 amps at 250 volts (or less) by UL and CSA. Power dissipation must
be carefully observed, particularly when the operating current of the application pushes up against the higher end. The unit can otherwise overheat, causing damage to the internal contacts and plastic. The chart below compares the KFA and DF12 power entry module:







As with all power entry modules, the key benefits are derived from a reduction in the
number of parts being mounted on the panel. Integrated modules can save significant
costs by reducing parts counts, panel cutouts, and assembly time. The success of the 6145/5145, and continued feedback through our sales channel about customer likes
and dislikes, provided the input that led to the remake of the series.

The 6145/5145 will continue as a standard product, due to its widespread use. The DF
series should be recommended for new designs because of its enhanced features.
Please note that the DF series panel cutouts are slightly different than the 6145/5145
(one cannot be substituted for the other).

Competition
The DF series is ahead of the market. There are few imitations, and the Schurter
product provides a greater range of variations, including a filtered unit. Filtered power
entry modules are more popular than unfiltered types, due to the added value of the
integrated filter. Differences between the DF11 and competitor products are
highlighted below.

Standards & Applications
The DF series is approved for rated currents 1, 2, 4, 6 and 10A/15A, 125/250 VAC, 50/60
Hz according to IEC/EN (), UL and CSA (). The inlet is according to IEC 60320, style C14,
and the circuit breaker for equipment is according to UL 1077, CSA C22.2, and EN 60934.

For higher power requirements, the EF series with a C20 inlet offers performance up
to 20A VAC. The DF and EF circuit breaker modules are suitable for use in IT equipment according to IEC/EN 60950, and medical equipment according to IEC 60601. Medical
filters are available with leakage current rating of <5µA (M5) or <80µA (M80). Typical applications include telecom base stations, high end computer and data storage
systems, medical imaging systems, industrial bar code and printing equipment,
processing and packaging machinery.

For detailed information contact  your local
Wes-Garde office at 1-800-554-8866 or
email sales@wesgarde.com