摘要 |
<p>A system and method are presented for sequentially applying electrical power to multiple loads. The system is capable of operating in conjunction with other such systems as either a slave or master. When operating as a master, the system is activated as soon as it is turned on, and begins sequentially applying power to the loads connected to its output channels. When operating as a slave, the system must first receive an enable input signal from the master to which it is connected. The master/slave assignment is switch-selectable; thus, series-connected units may be reconfigured from single to multiple masters, or vice-versa, with no wiring changes. The new system is believed to provide the benefits of improved reliability and reduced cost for power distribution networks, by eliminating startup current surges resulting from simultaneously powering-up all of the attached loads, thereby reducing stress on components.</p> |