A motor _______ is a motor controller that includes overload protection.

A motor _______ is a motor controller that includes overload protection.

• A. Starter
• B. Relay
• C. Contactor
• D. Switch

Answer: (A)

A motor starter is a motor controller that includes overload protection. In practice, a starter combines a heavy-duty switch (a contactor) that handles the motor current with an overload protection device (like a thermal overload relay) that monitors current and motor temperature and trips to disconnect the motor if it overheats or draws too much current. This integrated protection is what makes a starter the device that both starts the motor and safeguards it from damage. A relay is a control switch for the signal side and does not carry motor Load. A contactor handles the power switching but typically does not include overload protection by itself. A switch is a manual device to open or close circuits and likewise lacks built-in motor overload protection.

A motor starter is a motor controller that includes overload protection. In practice, a starter combines a heavy-duty switch (a contactor) that handles the motor current with an overload protection device (like a thermal overload relay) that monitors current and motor temperature and trips to disconnect the motor if it overheats or draws too much current. This integrated protection is what makes a starter the device that both starts the motor and safeguards it from damage.

A relay is a control switch for the signal side and does not carry motor Load. A contactor handles the power switching but typically does not include overload protection by itself. A switch is a manual device to open or close circuits and likewise lacks built-in motor overload protection.