Miniature Circuit Breaker – home electricity's watchful guardian for 100 years
We celebrate 100 years of the Miniature Circuit Breaker
In 1881, Schneider Electric took a pivotal step in electrical safety that would shape the future of power distribution. This year marked the beginning of our journey in developing electrical protection and energy management technologies, long before it became a standard in electrical systems.
Circuit breakers are the unsung heroes of modern lives: They automatically interrupt electrical flow when a fault is detected, preventing fires, equipment damage, and potential loss of life. By instantly cutting power during overloads or short circuits, they've made electricity safer and more reliable for homes, businesses, and industries worldwide.
Schneider Electric's innovations laid the foundation for 150 years of advancements in electrical protection, through its history, and the history of our renowned brands: Square D, Merlin Gerin, Feller, Lauritz Knudsen, Clipsal, etc. As we celebrate this long history of innovation, we continue to pioneer new technologies for an increasingly electrified world.
Since 1881, when we have pioneered this critical technology, the circuit breaker has stood guard against potential disasters. From its early mechanical origins to today's smart technologies, it prevents fires, safeguards equipment, and saves lives. This ensures that the power used in our everyday lives remains under careful control.
Innovation through time
1881
Medal for Schneider & Cie participation in the International Fair of Electricity in Paris, France, 1881.
1912
Electrical components customers’ catalogue, Schneider & Cie, 1912.
1936
The first residential building panelboard was the multi-breakers and the MO-4 panelboard, Square D, 1936.
1951
First plug-on breaker to the panelboard which facilitates the installation for electricians by making it a simple brick game.
1955
Square D introduces the first “Qwik-Open” QO circuit breaker, with the slogan “Finest Breaker Ever Built!”.
1972
First household circuit breaker branded Merlin Gerin.
1980
Merlin Gerin multi-9 series, iconic household breakers. The multi-9 series is the iconic range from the 1980’s to the 2000’s.
2024
X-ray of a household circuit breaker, from 1936 in Grenoble and onwards, Schneider Electric and its brands host in-house 100% of the required test capabilities for breakers.
Today
Resi9 range of miniature circuit breakers.
Modern home electrical safety
Circuit breakers, essential components of home electrical panels, have evolved from basic safety devices to sophisticated guardians of our modern, electrified lives. As homes embrace smart technology, electric vehicles, and renewable energy, these unsung heroes a growing crucial role in managing complex power needs. Everyday, they silently protect our lives, belongings and homes from electrical hazards.
The new energy landscape integrates renewable sources, smart technologies, and efficient power management in homes. While this shift towards home decarbonisation is crucial, it places significant strain on residential electrical distribution systems. Schneider Electric rises to this challenge, innovating to ensure safe, efficient, and reliable power distribution that can support these advanced energy technologies while maintaining home electrical integrity.
Next-generation innovations
Energy-efficient homes are a win-win, benefiting both the environment and your wallet in the long term. By adopting smart energy-saving strategies, you can significantly reduce your carbon footprint while cutting down on utility costs.
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Our circuit breaker story
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