The Siemens SENTRON ECPD combines up to ten protection and measurement functions in one device — switching in around 50 microseconds with semiconductor technology and ensuring total selectivity: a fault stays where it occurs instead of taking down entire areas.
How the ECPD changes workplace protection
Together with Siemens · 9 July 2026 · online · ~45 min + Q&A
Built on power semiconductors, the ECPD replaces the functions of several electromechanical devices — line protection, residual current protection, measurement and switching — in a single 2-module housing. In a fault, only the affected device trips, not the upstream protective device.
IT, machines and systems are protected and monitored — the circuit that powers them usually is not. It falls between the responsibilities of utility, building services and IT. The ECPD closes exactly this gap.
Utility
Building services
Unprotected — no one responsible
Vendors & integrators
Operator
The core promise: in a fault, only the affected device is guaranteed to trip, independent of the upstream protective device. On this foundation, lower operating costs, protection without arcing and auditable transparency add up to a measurable advantage.
In a fault, only the affected device trips — independent of connected load and upstream protective device. A fault at one workstation stays the problem of that one workstation.
The cyclic, uninterrupted self-test extends the test-button inspection interval (DGUV) from 6 to 48 months (by certificate). No coordinated shutdowns, remote testing with automatic logging, wear-free operation.
Semiconductor switching with minimal let-through energy — a "short circuit without short-circuit current". No dangerous arcing, no fire, no scorched contacts. Even sensitive, non-short-circuit-proof loads stay protected.
Integrated current, voltage and power measurement (IEC 61557-12), residual current monitoring (RCM) and complete logging of every self-test. Continuous monitoring instead of periodic spot checks — a data basis for compliance evidence and early warning.
Schematic illustration of the cumulative cost trend — not a concrete quote.
The ECPD starts with a higher purchase price but cuts the running costs for good — until the cumulative cost drops below that of a conventional solution.
10 conventional devices (16 modules) → 1 ECPD (2 modules) · Siemens comparison
Straight to the point. All the arguments, tools and field examples for each role are on their own pages — and in the detailed video.
Repeated short circuits in PC power supplies tripped the backup fuse — several trading desks went down at once. With one ECPD per desk, a fault stays contained to the affected workstation.
An excerpt from the 5TY1 series data sheets and the core function enablers. Full values in the data sheet.
Thanks to extremely fast tripping with minimal let-through current, only the ECPD trips in a fault — never the upstream protective device. Selectivity independent of connected load and upstream device.
Switches capacitive loads (switched-mode power supplies, drives) without nuisance tripping. Distinguishes operational inrush currents from real faults and from high starting currents (e.g. motors).
After a short circuit, overload or over-/undervoltage. Checks device temperature, mains voltage, cool-down time and electronics before reclosing — no dangerous switching onto an existing short circuit.
Continuous and cyclic self-tests (e.g. every 13 h) including logging. No holding magnet, no mechanical tripping relay, no contact wear — silent switching at high switching frequency.
Remote parameterization via the Powerconfig app or Modbus TCP. Protected parameters require physical presence: unlocking must be confirmed locally at the device within 90 s, is time-limited, and reverts automatically to protected mode.
Together with Siemens, we show the ECPD in practice. Free, online, with a live demo and Q&A. Reserve your spot now.
How the ECPD changes workplace protection
Guest: Vinod · Siemens Smart Infrastructure
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