The history of Telemecanique
Founded in 1924, Telemecanique soon gained international notoriety for automation and control technologies, including world-leading contactors, drives and pushbuttons.
Having invented the first bar contactor in 1924, Telemecanique quickly expanded to become a world leader in products and solutions for industrial control and automation.
Milestone dates
- 1924
Michel Le Goullec sets up Manufacture d’Appareillage Electrique that became La Télémécanique Electrique in 1928.
- 1924
After patenting the first bar contactor, Telemecanique begins producing thermal relays, float switches, timers, distribution boxes, and pushbuttons.
- 1950s
Canalis prefabricated busbar trunking and WB2-M pushbuttons are launched.
- 1972
VAR 200 variable speed drives are launched.
- 1973
World’s best-selling Tesys Series D contactors are launched.
- 1980s
First-generation Altivar frequency inverter drives and TSX60/80 PLCs are launched.
- 1983
World’s first all-in-one Integral 32/63 contactor-circuit breaker is launched.
- 2000
The Harmony range of push buttons, switches and pilot lights are launched.
- 2004
World’s first Tesys U starter-controller is launched.
Schneider Electric history
Learn about our history and discover other brands that are part of Schneider Electric today.
Need help?
Product Selector
Quickly and easily find the right products and accessories for your applications.
Get a Quote
Start your sales inquiry online and an expert will connect with you.
Where to buy?
Easily find the nearest Schneider Electric distributor in your location.
Help Center
Find support resources for all your needs, in one place.