Manual VS Auto – which switch meets your power supply needs?

Investing in a backup generator in industrial fields is certainly one of the safest ways of avoiding extended power outage. But, one also has to make sure that the design of the installed generator meets the referred power supply. Otherwise, this ill-preparedness might lead to power outage because the generators can be connected to either of the following kinds of transfer switches: auto or manual. For an auto transfer switch, switching to the generator and back is done by computer, and for a manual transfer switch, it needs to be done by hand.

Below written are the following points to help you get detailed knowledge about both the switches:

The Advantages and Disadvantages of Auto Transfer Switch

If auto switches are in charge of the backup generators, then one doesn’t need to worry about wandering in the dark to switch on the generator. But, there is also a risk of overwhelming power in the building, depending upon the design of the auto switch. Auto switches are of two types: make before break and break before the break. The former one is designed for establishing a connection with generator power without separating it from grid power and is used in places where consistent power supply is much-needed. And, the latter one is designed in such a way that it gets disengaged with the grid power before its connection with the generator.

The Advantages and Disadvantages of Manual Transfer Switch

It might occur to one’s mind that manual switches precede auto switches, but this fact doesn’t instantly affect the overall comparison. For domestic purposes, low-cost manual switches, which help in the connection with small generators, are preferable, as these ensure that there is no wastage of any power. This fact makes the manual switches are a better option for commercial and industrial outlets. However, in many cases, companies need to install several generators at various locations to deal with the entire process. But, the relatively standard companies tend to go for auto switches to reduce manpower needed to handle manual transfer switches.