Product innovations in distribution systems

This includes the Alpha 400-ZS meter cabinet, which enables a combination of Ferraris meters and the new electronic household meters (eHZ), as well as the new distribution board series Alpha Box. Furthermore, Siemens has added new functions for configuring and planning distribution boards and small distribution boards with Version 5.0 of its Alpha Select software.

Users can install both the new electronic household meter (eHZ) and the Ferraris meter into the Alpha-400-ZS meter cabinet. The meter support plate permits mounting of either meter generation by simply exchanging the mounting brackets. In the event of a failure, the device can be hot swapped quickly and easily thanks to the plug-in technology without requiring a shutdown of the system. The Alpha 400-ZS meter cabinets are available with an overall height of 900 or 1050 millimeters and in five different overall widths.

With the Alpha Box, Siemens now offers a wall-mounted distribution board for rated voltages of up to 690 V for the interiors of residential and non-residential buildings. Due to the corrosion-resistant surface with IP55 degree of protection, users can also install the distribution board in damp locations. When closed, the unit meets the requirements of overvoltage category II/III as well as pollution severity II/III. The Alpha Box can be used, for example, for power distribution solutions for garage-door opener drives, window and sauna controllers, or simple applications in small-sized companies.

Alpha Select Version 5.0 serves as planning and configuration software for installation engineers, control cabinet builders and wholesalers. It enables users to dimension distribution boards and small distribution boards, select Alpha-400-ZS meter cabinets, equip the cabinets in a virtual mock-up and calculate assembly services for devices.