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JUL 16, 2010
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New Power Failure Alarm Cord
Reliance Controls Corporation has introduced the SoniCordTM, a unique 17-inch cord with a built-in power failure alarm. Designed to monitor essential 120V cord-connected appliances for Accidental cord disconnect, circuit breaker failure or nuisance tripping, or power outage. The SoniCordTM is perfect for use with refrigerators, freezers, sump pumps, aquariums, wine cellars and much more.
When the cord leading to a connected appliance is disconnected, or loses power for any reason, a loud 105dB signal, power by a rechargeable battery, sounds for up to 90 minutes. Convenient retaining straps are included to secure the appliance plug to the SoniCord receptacle to help prevent accidental disconnect downstream from the alarm.
Designated as the THP111, the SoniCord is cULus listed for indoor use and is available through retailers and electrical distributors throughout the U.S. and Canada.
SoniCord Brochure
View SoniCord with install straps
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OCT 3, 2009
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Reliance Controls Celebrates Century of Technological Ingenuity
Family-owned company has earned position as a leader in electrical innovation
A century of technological innovation that began with one man’s invention of a time switch and grew into a family-owned company that is a world leader in electrical innovation is being celebrated by Reliance Controls. The Racine, Wis.-based company, approximately 30 miles south of Milwaukee, is owned and operated by the Flegel family. Reliance Controls is the leading manufacturer of transfer switches for portable generators, as well as products that help families and businesses in the event of power failures.
“In 100 years, we think we’ve done something right because not too many companies can do what we do every day – identify problems and design products to fix those problems,” said Dave Flegel, president of Reliance Controls and grandson of its founder, Benjamin Franklin Flegel. “Our goal is to do that for another century to honor our grandfather’s innovative legacy.”
In 1909, founder Benjamin Flegel invented a time switch – an eight-day, spring-driven model that allowed stores and apartment buildings to turn the lights on and off automatically that, in the early days of the electrical age, allowed for a more productive work day. Flegel quickly patented the switch, which would launch the Reliance Automatic Lighting Company in Warren, Ohio. The company moved to Racine in 1911 and has been there ever since. Benjamin Flegel’s son, Dean, ran the company for more than 30 years. Today, Dean Flegel’s sons – Dave, Mike and Jeff – have taken over, and some of the fourth-generation Flegels are now actively contributing as well.
Over the years, Reliance has invented several products that moved with the times and technological advances. In the 1930s, natural evolution and technical progress eliminated the self-winding time switch, and development steered into the motor-driven types.
Reliance Controls’ “Badger” series was introduced as the first synchronous motor-driven time switch. The Series 500 time switch is now used on 80 percent of the billboards in the U.S., according to the company.
One recent innovation came in 1983 when Reliance was the first to put transfer switches for portable generators on the market. These have become one of the company’s most familiar products. Keeping businesses and homes up and running in the event of a power failure, the transfer switches provide a safe and effective means for powering an electrical system with a portable generator.
In 100 years, the inventive and problem-solving minds at Reliance have contributed numerous innovations to manual transfer switch technology, as well as introduced many products for everyday use in homes across the country. For instance, the Phone-Out Home Warning System automatically dials up to three numbers when freezing temperatures, power failures, flooding or water leaks threaten a home or cabin. Another design used in the event of a power failure is the PowerOUT!™, a plug-in product that provides up to six hours of light and sounds an alarm so homeowners will never sleep through a power outage or be caught in the dark. Products like these – results of weekly brainstorm sessions at the Reliance Controls’ offices – can be found on the shelves of the biggest retail names in the country: Home Depot, Lowe’s, True Value, Do It Best and Ace Hardware, to name a few.
“Our company is doing well thanks to a committed staff at Reliance Controls who work so hard every day,” said Dave Flegel. “Our grandfather’s motto was, ‘if there’s a problem, fix it.’ This sounds so simple, but it’s a mantra that has existed for 100 years. Some things never change.”
After a century of innovation, Reliance Controls Corporation has built an enviable reputation for high quality, superior engineering and exceptional customer service. For more information, please visit www.reliancecontrols.com
Read the Journal Times article about Reliance Controls first 100 years
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SEP 12, 2009
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New Non-metallic Power Inlet Box
The new Reliance PBN Series non-metallic power inlet box provides a low-cost method for connecting a portable generator to a transfer switch, transfer panel or temporary power load center.
Constructed of .150” UV stabilized ABS, the PBN is designed for heavy-duty outdoor residential and commercial installations. It is ideally suited for standby and spot-power
applications. Models are available for most portable generator outputs from 15A/125VAC to 50A, 125/250VAC.
The exclusive Pop-FastTM ½” knockout design makes for exceptionally fast installation and the interior provides over 88 cubic inches of wiring space. The slide-out base
permits easy 360o access to the terminals of the flanged inlet for fast wiring. The through-bolt design is held in place with two 4-1/8” JS500 screws. The water-resistant and bug-proof flanged inlet cover is standard.
The new Reliance PBN Series will soon be available at over 3000 electrical distributor locations throughout North America and is the first power inlet box to be listed to the new
UL1008 standard by Underwriters Laboratories Inc. U.S. and foreign patents pending.
Technical Specifications Bulletin
PBN view #1
PBN inside view
PBN view #2
PBN view with cord
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NOV 1, 2008
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Standby Power System Monitor
Reliance Controls Corporation has introduced the PowerTrakTM automatic standby power
system monitor. In the event that an automatic standby power system fails to start in a power
outage, or fails during the outage, the PowerTrak will call up to three installer-selected phone
numbers anywhere in North America and identify the problem.
The new PowerTrak will also phone-out in the event of a potential freeze condition resulting
from a furnace failure and includes a water sensor to monitor for flooding conditions.
PowerTrak takes only minutes to install and requires no special wiring. Programming is fast
and easy. The new Reliance Controls PowerTrak is FCC approved and available through
electrical wholesalers, generator dealers and retailers throughout North America.
PowerTrak Brochure
View PowerTrak with package
View PowerTrak water sensor
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OCT 17, 2008
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New Utility Power Return Alert
Reliance Controls Corporation has introduced the PowerBACK!TM, utility power return alert.
The PowerBACK! is intended to be installed on any manual transfer panel or generator-ready
load center. In a power outage, when the main breaker has been turned off to allow the standby
generator to provide emergency power to the panel, the PowerBACK! can be activated and will
emit a pulsing 100dB alarm when the power outage ends. The panel may then be returned to
utility power.
The PowerBACK! installs in a ½” trade size knockout in the panel within 20 inches of one of the
utility hot legs. The PowerBACK! has a flexible eight-inch current sensor at the end of a
22-inch jacketed lead. When wrapped around one of the hot legs to the main circuit breaker,
the sensor will detect the returning utility current and activate the sonic alert.
Designated as the THP108, the PowerBACK! is cULus listed and available at over 5000
distributor locations throughout the U.S. and Canada. US and foreign patents pending.
PowerBACK! Brochure
View PowerBACK! Installed
View PowerBACK! Closeup
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SEP 21, 2007
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New Manual Transfer Panel for Generators with GFI Outlets
Reliance Controls Corporation announces the Panel/Link® X Series of manual
transfer panels. The X Series is engineered specifically for use with portable
generators equipped with ground fault protection and for applications requiring a
separately derived system.
The X Series features a unique sequential neutral-switching mechanism that will
open the two hot legs before opening the neutral leg. It will then close the neutral
leg before it closes the two hot legs. This ensures that sensitive 120V electronics
and inductive AC motors are not subjected to damaging 240V current resulting
from a possible momentary loss of the neutral during switching.
There are over 30 X Series models available to accommodate 8 to 36 branch
circuits. All are UL listed and suitable for use under article 702 of the National
Electrical Code ANSI/NFPA70. The Panel/Link X Series is available at over
3000 electrical distributor locations throughout the U.S. and Canada. U.S. and
foreign patents pending.
X Series Instructions
X Series Specifications
X Series Label
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JUL 31, 2007
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New Dual-Input Manual Transfer Switch for Traffic Signals
Reliance Controls Corporation has introduced the Pro/Tran® Signa 2 Series
traffic signal transfer switches. The Signa 2 features two 120V generator inlets
that will allow either a 15A or 30A generator outlet to power the traffic signal in a
power outage. The patent-pending design insures that the inlets are isolated so
that one inlet is not live when the other is powered. The Signa 2 allows
greater flexibility in the selection of the generator used to power the intersection.
Constructed of rugged .060 stainless steel, the Signa 2 Series is available in
several models for 15/30A, 125VAC generator output. Options include utility
power return indicator light, over-current protection and neutral switching
capability. The Signa II Series features the exclusive Reliance 7801 transfer-
rated toggle switch which allows switching back to utility power in less than 250
milliseconds, eliminating the necessity of resetting the traffic signals.
Reliance Controls Corporation was awarded the first patent for a traffic signal
transfer switch in September of 2000. Today Reliance manufactures
over 100 traffic signal transfer switch models in three different outdoor
enclosures. Reliance also offers custom transfer switch design, engineering and testing services.
View Signa 2 Series in closed position
View Signa 2 Series in open position
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JUL 27, 2007
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Reliance Announces Test Lab Opening
Reliance Controls Corporation announces the completion of a new high-current
test laboratory at the corporate headquarters in Racine, Wisconsin. The new
facility is capable of delivering up to 10,000 amperes at 125/250 VAC, or 2.5
megawatts. The laboratory includes a custom-built, 1400 cubic foot blast
chamber, a multi-channel high speed data acquisition control system and high
speed video imaging. The facility will permit Reliance to test to several ANSI
standards including UL98, UL489, UL508, UL891, UL1008, UL1054, UL1077 and
others. According to Reliance’s Director of Engineering, Neil Czarnecki, “This
will allow us to conduct UL certification tests in our own facility which will take
several months off our time-to-market for new products.”
The Reliance testing laboratory is also available to other manufacturers for pre-
testing electrical products to UL and ANSI standards. For more information
contact Neil Czarnecki at 1-800-634-6155.
Reliance Laboratories Web Site
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JUN 29, 2007
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New Transfer Panels Permit Access to all Residential Circuits from an Automatic Standby System
Reliance Controls Corporation has introduced the SelecTranTM Series of home standby generator expansion
panels. The SelecTran Series is intended for use with a new or existing residential automatic standby
system. SelecTran is designed to overcome the major limitation of automatic systems, which is that they can
power only a limited number of circuits in accordance with the National Electrical Code. Even if the homeowner is
present, non-emergency circuits in the main panel such as the garage door opener or dishwasher are unavailable.
SelecTran makes any circuit in the load center available to be manually switched to the standby generator while
maintaining code compliance.
When power fails, the automatic transfer switch system detects the loss of utility power, starts the generator, and
automatically switches the emergency circuits over to the generator. Now, the generator powers only the
circuits in the transfer switch or emergency subpanel. None of the circuits in the load center are powered. The
SelecTran allows a double-pole breaker from the emergency subpanel, or transfer switch, to safely back-
feed a double-pole breaker in the SelecTran panel making generator power available to all branch
circuits. The back-fed breaker in the SelecTran is interlinked with the circuit breaker that feeds the automatic
transfer switch so that both circuit breakers cannot be ON at the same time. This prevents the standby system
from sensing its own power. A second linkage, to the main circuit breaker, will not allow the back-fed breaker from
the standby system to turn ON unless the main breaker is in the OFF position, protecting the utility from being back-
fed by the standby system.
Reliance SelecTran home standby generator expansion panels are suitable for service-entrance and available in 24
UL-listed models at over 3000 electrical distributor locations in the U.S. and Canada. U.S. and foreign patents pending.
Download SelecTran Brochure
Download SelecTran Sample Installation Instructions
Download SelecTran Sequence Specifications
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JAN 6, 2007
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Low-cost 200A Generator-ready Load Center
Reliance Controls Corporation has expanded its Panel/Link® line of 200A generator-ready load centers to include the economy-priced TTR Series. The TTR is available
with or without watt meters in indoor and outdoor versions, adding 14 models to the Panel/Link product line. All models feature a 200A main breaker and provision for 28/38
branch circuit breakers. It is the ability of the TTR to utilize tandem, or duplex, circuit breakers that contribute to the cost savings over the Panel/Link TTV Series which
features 38 full-size branch circuit breaker spaces. Generator breakers are available from 30A to 125A.
Like all Panel/Link generator-ready models, the TTR Series features the heavy-duty Reliance interlock system. All TTR models are UL Listed and include two installed 20A
branch circuit breakers, in addition to the main and generator circuit breakers. Reliance Panel/Link generator-ready load centers are available at over 3000 electrical
distributor locations in the U.S. and Canada.
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DEC 22, 2006
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Full-Featured Compact Transfer Panel
Reliance Controls Corporation has expanded its compact Panel/Link® TRB Series of
manual transfer panels to include models with watt meters and/or power inlets. This capability adds 18 models to the TRB product offering and will accommodate portable
generators to 12,500 running watts. The Panel/Link TRB is service entrance rated for up to 125A and can be used as a main panel or sub-panel. There are accommodations
for 4/8 branch circuit breakers.
Like all TRB models, the line additions feature a protective steel door with latch, and a tamper-resistant interlock. All models are UL Listed for use with most one-inch
interchangeable branch circuit breakers.
Panel/Link manual transfer panels are available at over 3000 electrical distributor locations throughout North America.
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NOV 19, 2006
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New Digital Circuit Breaker Locator
Reliance Controls Corporation has introduced the Circuit SnooperTM, a digital microprocessor-based
circuit breaker locator. The Circuit SnooperTM identifies 90-280 VAC breakers and fuses powering home
electrical circuits with digital accuracy.
Simply plug the Circuit SnooperTM transmitter into the live outlet of the circuit you need to identify. This
will illuminate the red LED on the transmitter. Use the receiver to scan the circuit breakers in the load
center. When the correct circuit breaker is located, the Circuit SnooperTM receiver will “beep” and a green
arrow will flash.
The Circuit SnooperTM utilizes patented diagnostic algorithm firmware that is capable of distinguishing
between the minute difference of EFI interference and the signal emitted from the transmitter. This
algorithm consistently locks-in immediately on the correct circuit breaker.
The Circuit SnooperTM is UL listed and features ergonomic, high-impact construction. The receiver
requires a 9V battery, not included.
Designated as the THP110, the Circuit SnooperTM is part of
The Home Protectors®
product offering and and is available at select retail stores and electrical wholesalers nationwide.
The Circuit SnooperTM is
ideal for use when setting up residential standby power systems.
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AUG 23, 2006
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Power Failure Alarm and Safety Light
Reliance Controls Corporation has introduced the PowerOUT!TM, a plug-in power failure alarm
with built-in safety light & flashlight. Simply plug the PowerOUT! into any 120V outlet or power
strip. When the power fails, the PowerOUT! emits a pulsing 86dB alarm, about as loud as a
conventional alarm clock. At the Same time, the PowerOUT! illuminates three built-in, ultra-
bright LEDs to provide safety lighting. The PowerOUT! can be removed from the outlet and the
three-position switch set to “LIGHT” position, silencing the alarm, and the ultra-bright LEDs will
provide up to eight hours of portable lighting.
The PowerOUT! features an ergonomic, high-impact case, built-in rechargeable NiMH battery
and a green LED, indicating that there is power to the unit. The green LED can also function as
a night light.
Designated as the THP207, the PowerOUT! is part of
The Home Protectors®
product offering and will be available at retail stores and select electrical wholesalers nationwide.
The PowerOUT! is CSA certified and ideal for homes with standby generating systems or any
home where a nighttime power outage can cause a problem.
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FEB 3, 2006
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Power Monitoring System
Reliance Controls Corporation has introduced the PhoneAlertTM home and business monitoring
system. In the event of a power outage, temperature drop or flood condition, the PhoneAlertTM
will call up to three installer-selected phone numbers anywhere in North America, and identify
the specific problem. The new PhoneAlertTM is ideal for notifying an absentee homeowner, or
business owner, when his automatic standby system has failed to activate in a power outage.
The PhoneAlertTM is part of the Reliance Controls’ Home ProtectorsTM product line.
Additional information, and an instructional video, may be found at www.home-protectors.com.
PhoneAlertTM is available in two models, with flood sensor and
without flood sensor, and takes only minutes to
install. Programming is fast and easy. Both PhoneAlertTM models are FCC approved.
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NOV 7, 2005
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New Consumer Products Group
Reliance Controls Corporation has introduced THE HOME PROTECTORS® consumer
products group. The new product grouping consists of products engineered to facilitate
the installation of home standby systems and help protect against damage caused by
power failures.
Included in the new line are several unique products such as the AmWattTM, in-line
appliance ammeter/wattmeter; Volt SnooperTM non-contact voltage detector; an early
warning sump pump alarm/flood alert; two types of wireless flood/freeze warning
systems; a low-cost, seven-function multi-meter and the WireworkerTM, a unique
electrical panel tool designed for, among other things, stripping 12 and 10 gauge
NM cable.
While the initial offering consists of seven products, many new and unique products are
scheduled to be added over the next 10 months. THE HOME PROTECTORS product
line will be available at most US and Canadian retailers and select electrical distributors.
THE HOME PROTECTORS product line may be viewed at www.home-protectors.com.
Customer Service support is readily available at (800) 439-5745.
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AUG 22, 2005
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Non-Contact Voltage Detector
Reliance Controls Corporation has introduced the Volt SnooperTM, a high
performance non-contact voltage detector. The Volt Snooper features a
slide-clip ON/OFF switch and both visual and audible voltage detection
signals. The ON/OFF light also functions as low battery indicator. A Cat
III device, the Volt Snooper is rated for 50-1000VAC and 50-60Hz. One of
the unique features is that it uses common AAA batteries (included).
The Volt Snooper is listed by Underwriters Laboratories Inc. and includes
tri-lingual instructions. It is economically priced and comes individually
blister packed in ten-unit self-merchandising display carton.
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JUN 16, 2005
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Manual Transfer Switch For Traffic Signals
Reliance Controls Corporation has introduced the Pro/Tran® SignaTM Series line of
traffic signal transfer switches. These transfer switches permit a fast and easy
method of operating traffic signals with a portable generator in the event of a
power interruption. Constructed with rugged stainless steel NEMA 3R outdoor
enclosures, the Pro/Tran® SignaTM Series is available in a wide variety of
configurations up to 50A, 125VAC. Options include utility power return indicator
light and neutral switching capability. The SignaTM Series features the exclusive
Reliance 7801 transfer-rated toggle switch which allows switching back to the
utility in less than 250 milliseconds eliminating the necessity of resetting the
traffic signals.
All Pro/Tran SignaTM Series models are listed by Underwriters Laboratories Inc. and
are suitable for use in accordance with article 702 of the National Electrical Code.
Reliance Controls Corporation was awarded its first patent on a traffic signal
transfer switch, the CSR Series, in September of 2000. The CSR, featuring a
zinc plated, powder-coated enclosure with captive cord capability, remains in
production.
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MAY 23, 2005
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Low-cost Load Tester
Reliance Controls Corporation has introduced the AmWatt®, a new hand-held
ammeter/wattmeter for measuring loads on cord-connected tools, appliances or lighting.
Simply plug the cord on the device to be measured into the receptacle on the back of
the AmWattTM and plug the 26” cord end on the AmWatt into a live outlet. A slide switch
on the side of the unit allows you to choose amps or watts to appear on the liquid crystal
display. The AmWatt will read up to 15A and 1875W and is listed by Underwriters
Laboratories Inc. While the AmWatt has many functions, it is ideal for use by installers
of standby generating systems.
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FEB 6, 2005
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New Portable Generator Transfer Switch For Heavy-duty Applications
Reliance Controls Corporation has introduced the Pro/Tran® “Q” Series manual
transfer switch for portable generators to 12.5kW. The new Q Series utilizes
conventional 1-inch interchangeable circuit breakers, to DP30A, in series with the
exclusive Reliance 7801 transfer-rated toggle switch. The Q Series is available
in three different six- and ten-circuit configurations for indoor installation. Factory
installed circuit breakers and analog watt meters, to monitor and balance
generator loads, are standard. An electronic LED bar graph meter, which will
display generator wattage and voltage, is optional. Like all Reliance Pro/Tran
transfer switches, the “Q” Series is completely prewired for fast installation. All
models are UL listed for most brands of interchangeable circuit breakers and can
be easily re-configured in the field for multiple double-pole circuits if needed.
The Pro/Tran “Q” Series is UL listed to UL Standard 1008 and is suitable for use
in accordance with article 702 of the National Electrical Code ANSI/NFPA 70.
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