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ASCO 5101 Engine Start Modules Offer NEC®-Compliant Monitoring for Engine Start Circuits

April 3, 2019

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Florham Park

New Jersey

United States

ASCO 5101 Engine Start Modules Offer NEC®-Compliant Monitoring for Engine Start Circuits

The 5101 Generator and ATS Modules indicate start circuit availability to avoid potential outages

 

Florham Park, N.J., April 3, 2019 — ASCO Power Technologies, the world’s leading provider of critical power solutions, debuts its new ASCO 5101 Engine Start Modules. These devices continually monitor the operability of Engine Start Signal Circuits to ensure that engine-generators will receive start signals when emergency power is needed. They also start engine-generators as soon as start circuit faults are detected.

An emergency engine-generator must start automatically when it receives a signal from an automatic transfer switch (ATS). Without engine start circuit monitoring, facility managers might never become aware of cable cuts or short circuits that could prevent start signals from reaching engine controls. These unchecked conditions leave a facility at risk of an outage when backup power is required. For this reason, the 2017 NEC now requires monitoring of engine start circuits to reduce the risk of outages.

The new ASCO solution consists of electronic modules placed at the engine-generator and ATS controls to continually monitor engine start signal wiring. If a control circuit is opened or shorted, the engine automatically starts, and an alarm relay activates indicators at the generator and any remote annunciators.

“The last thing anyone wants is for a generator to fail to start,” says ASCO Product Manager, Victor Bonachea. “Our new solution installs directly on existing two-wire systems with no additional modifications. We’re excited to be the first to offer a simple, effective, low-cost solution for complying with the new NEC requirements.”

The 5101 Generator Module and the 5101 ATS Module easily install on new and existing transfer switches, and work with engine-generators regardless of brand. Each 5101 Generator Module can monitor up to eight 5101 ATS modules. The 5101 Engine Start Modules will be available as a factory-installed accessory when ordering a new ASCO Automatic Transfer Switch.

“The 5101 modules are the easiest solution for fully complying with the new NEC requirement,” says Mario Ibrahim, ASCO’s Director of New Products & Innovation. “Because they are linked through the engine start circuit, they provide the most direct method for detecting problems that could lead to outages.”

The ASCO 5101 Engine Start Modules use the latest innovations from ASCO’s PowerQuest® product lineup, which provides a broad range of solutions for managing mission-critical power assets. ASCO products are backed by technology, support, and service that are unmatched in the industry. For more information, view the product video.

 

 

About ASCO Power Technologies

ASCO Power Technologies has provided power reliability solutions for more than 125 years. The firm designs, manufactures, services, and supports automatic transfer switches, power control equipment, load banks, fire pump control systems, and surge protective devices. ASCO products serve mission-critical functions in data centers, healthcare facilities, telecommunication networks, commercial buildings, and industrial operations. To learn more about any of ASCO’s premium products and services, call (800) 800 ASCO (2726), email CustomerCare@Ascopower.com, or visit www.ascopower.com.