Panelboards & Switchboards

Discover our switchboards designed to house all devices providing protection, control or monitoring at every node of your power distribution systems. They also connect power distribution to digital software, such as EcoStruxure Power, to better optimize power supply reliability, asset maintenance and energy efficiency.

What is a switchboard?

A switchboard is a crucial component in electrical power distribution systems, particularly in industrial and commercial settings. It functions as the central control point for managing and directing electrical power throughout a facility. This essential piece of equipment plays a pivotal role in ensuring a reliable and safe supply of electricity to power various circuits and equipment within the premises.
Switchboards are designed to handle a significant amount of electrical power, making them larger and more robust compared to standard electrical distribution boards found in residential settings. They are typically located in dedicated rooms or enclosures to provide easy access for maintenance and monitoring by qualified personnel.
One of the primary functions of a switchboard is to receive electrical power from an external source, such as a utility company's grid or a backup generator. It acts as a gateway for this incoming power, allowing it to be distributed efficiently to different sections of the facility. This distribution is achieved through a network of switches, breakers, and fuses, which enable the control and protection of electrical circuits. Switchboards are not only responsible for distributing power but also for managing it intelligently. They often incorporate advanced monitoring and control systems that allow operators to monitor voltage levels, current loads, and other critical parameters. In the event of a fault or overload, the switchboard can automatically trip breakers or disconnect circuits to prevent electrical hazards and equipment damage. Furthermore, switchboards are designed with safety in mind. They are built to withstand various environmental conditions and are equipped with safety features such as arc flash protection to minimise risks to personnel and equipment during electrical faults.
A switchboard serves as the nerve centre of electrical power distribution in industrial and commercial facilities. Its critical role in efficiently and safely managing electricity makes it an indispensable component for the uninterrupted operation of businesses and industries. Proper maintenance and regular inspections are essential to ensure the reliability and safety of switchboards in these critical settings.

What is the use of a switchboard?

A switchboard is a device, or a central control panel used to manage and distribute electrical power or communication signals in various applications. Its specific use can vary depending on the context, but here are some common uses:

● Electrical Power Distribution: In buildings and industrial settings, switchboards are used to distribute electrical power from the main source (such as a generator or utility grid) to various circuits and appliances. They contain switches, circuit breakers, and fuses to control the flow of electricity, ensuring safety and efficient power distribution.
● Telephone Systems: In older telephone systems, switchboards were used by operators to connect phone calls by physically plugging and unplugging cables manually. While manual switchboards are largely obsolete, modern digital switchboards are used to manage and route telephone calls in large telecommunication networks.
● Data Networking: In computer networking, a switchboard can refer to a network switch, which is a device that connects multiple devices within a local area network (LAN) and forwards data packets between them. Network switches are essential for creating efficient and reliable data networks.
● Automation and Control: In industrial automation and control systems, switchboards are used to centralise control and monitoring of various machines, processes, and equipment. They often include buttons, switches, and indicators to facilitate manual control and oversight.
● Energy Management: Switchboards can be used in renewable energy systems and power distribution systems to manage the flow of electricity from sources like solar panels or wind turbines to the electrical grid or energy storage systems.
● Safety and Emergency Response: In some contexts, switchboards are used as part of safety systems, such as emergency stop control panels in industrial environments. These panels allow operators to shut down machinery in case of an emergency quickly.
● Audio and Entertainment: In the entertainment industry, switchboards are used for controlling audio and lighting equipment during events and performances. They provide a central point for adjusting sound levels, lighting effects, and other production elements.

The specific use of a switchboard can vary widely depending on the industry and application. In general, a switchboard serves as a control and distribution hub for various types of power or signal management.