6 best power distribution components

Power distribution components are essential elements in electrical systems that help manage and distribute electrical power safely and efficiently within homes, commercial buildings, industrial facilities, and various other environments. These components are crucial for ensuring that electrical power is distributed reliably to different circuits and devices. Here are some key aspects of power distribution components:

  1. Main Electrical Service Panel: The main electrical service panel, also known as the breaker box or electrical distribution board, is typically the starting point of an electrical system.It receives electrical power from the utility grid or an alternative power source and distributes it to various circuits throughout the building.

  2. Circuit Breakers: Circuit breakers are devices within the electrical panel that protect circuits and devices from overcurrents and short circuits. They automatically trip (open) when there is an electrical fault to prevent damage or fires. Circuit breakers come in various types, including standard, GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter), and AFCI (Arc Fault Circuit Interrupter) breakers.

  3. Fuses: Fuses serve a similar purpose to circuit breakers by protecting electrical circuits from overcurrents. When the current exceeds the rated value, a fuse element melts and interrupts the circuit, preventing damage. Fuses are less common in modern installations but are still used in some applications.

  4. Bus Bars: Bus bars are conductive bars or strips inside the electrical panel that connect the main power source to the individual circuit breakers. They serve as distribution points for the incoming power, routing it to various branch circuits.

  5. Distribution Panels: In larger buildings or industrial facilities, multiple distribution panels may be used to divide and sub-distribute power to different areas or equipment. These panels are often connected to the main service panel and contain their own set of circuit breakers or fuses.

  6. Load Centers: Load centers are compact, self-contained electrical panels that serve as distribution points for residential or smaller commercial applications. They typically include a main breaker, individual circuit breakers, and space for additional breakers as needed.

  7. Switches and Receptacles: These components are part of the power distribution system as they allow for the control and access to electrical power. Switches control the flow of power to lighting and other devices, while receptacles provide electrical outlets for plugging in appliances and equipment.

  8. Wiring: The wiring used in the power distribution system, such as electrical cables (e.g., Romex) and conduits, carries electrical power from the distribution panel to outlets, lights, and devices throughout the building.

  9. Grounding and Bonding: Proper grounding and bonding are essential for safety in electrical systems. Grounding ensures that excess electrical energy is safely dissipated into the earth, while bonding establishes electrical continuity throughout the system.

  10. Surge Protection: Surge protectors or surge suppression devices may be installed at various points in the electrical system to protect against voltage spikes and surges caused by lightning strikes, utility grid fluctuations, or electrical faults.

  11. Safety Devices: These can include devices like ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) and arc fault circuit interrupters (AFCIs), which are designed to enhance electrical safety by detecting and responding to specific types of electrical faults.

Power distribution components are critical for the safe and reliable operation of electrical systems. Proper installation, maintenance, and compliance with electrical codes and regulations are essential to ensure the safety and functionality of power distribution systems in homes and commercial buildings.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best power distribution components on the market
  

Electronics-Salon Panel Mount 10 Position Power Distribution Fuse Module Board, for AC/DC 5~32V

Electronics-Salon

Based on 13 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Panel Mount Power Distribution Fuse Module Board.



Specification:

Work voltage: AC or DC 5~32V, total current rating 40Amp.

Dimensions: 150mm x 72.5mm x 29mm (W x L x H).

Input terminals: pitch - 7.62mm/0.3", current 30A for per position, wire size 26~10 AWG, stripping length 8mm, Metric M3 slotted screw.

P1 output terminals: pitch - 5.08mm/0.2", maximum current 10A for per position, wire size 26~12 AWG, stripping length 7mm, Metric M2.5 slotted screw.

P2-1 to P2-10 output terminals: pitch - 7.5mm/0.295", maximum current 10A for per position, wire size 26~12 AWG, stripping length 7mm, Metric M2.5 slotted screw.

Fuse holders for Medium Blade ATO/ATC Fuse, factory-installed fuses 5Amp. with fuse fail indication function

FR-4 fiber glass PCB, dual copper layers.

　

  • Panel Mount Power Distribution Fuse Module Board.
  • Work voltage: AC or DC 5~32V, total current rating 40Amp. Dimensions: 150mm x 72.5mm x 29mm (W x L x H).
  • Input terminals: pitch - 7.62mm/0.3", current 30A for per position, wire size 26~10 AWG, stripping length 8mm, Metric M3 slotted screw.
  • P1 output terminals: pitch - 5.08mm/0.2", maximum current 10A for per position, wire size 26~12 AWG, stripping length 7mm, Metric M2.5 slotted screw.
  • P2-1 to P2-10 output terminals: pitch - 7.5mm/0.295", maximum current 10A for per position, wire size 26~12 AWG, stripping length 7mm, Metric M2.5 slotted screw.

User questions & answers

Question: Do you think this would work for distributing power to the tracks on an HO model train layout
Answer: I can't answer that accurately because it has been several years ago I purchased it.
Question: Can this distro board take two 12v power supplies and distribute load to devices on connected outputs
Answer: Yes, this will work with first generation Xbox Ones.
Question: Looking for this product that can handle 20amps per pole for 12vDC, does such a product exist
Answer: Yes, there is a port in the back of the Stream Mic for you to hear game audio and yourself.
Question: Does this work with an input of 110 AC
Answer: You can also use it for the PC as well as the consoles. You also do not need to use it only for streaming, it functions as a high quality mic for you to communicate with your team as well.

uxcell IP65 ABS Transparent Cover Power Distribution Protection Box for Circuit Breaker Indoor on The Wall 5 Way (160mmx120mmx95mm)

Based on 9 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Description:

Made of high quality plastic material, this distribution box is durable and sturdy. This distribution box is designed for 8 ways circuit breaker. The blue cover is transparent so you can easily check circuit breaker state without open it. It is easy to install and convenient to use, simply mount it on your wall. Great to mount indoors, widely used for home, hotel shop and many other places.



Specificatios:



Product Name: Distribution Protection Box

Outer Size:160 x 120 x 95mm / 6.3-inch x 4.72-inch x 3.74-inch (L*W*H)

Inner Size(Approx.): 150 x 110 x 87mm / 5.91-inch x 4.33-inch x 3.43-inch(L*W*H)

Main Color: Gray

Main Material: ABS

Rating: IP65

Model: HT-5

Net Weight: 306g





Package Include:

1 x Distribution Protection Box

Some Screws

  • Suitable for indoor and outdoor electrical ,communications,fire fighting equipment
  • Main Material: ABS; Main Color: Gray; Net Weight: 306g; Rating: IP65;Model: HT-5
  • Easy to operate and repair, no cable cutting, more convenient and safer
  • Features: moisture proof, sunscreen, anti-corrosion, durable for years use
  • Outer Size: 200 x 155 x 92mm / 7.87" x 6.1" x 3.62" (L*W*H); Inner Size: 190 x 145 x 85mm / 7.48" x 5.71" x 3.35" (L*W*H)

DC Power Fuse Distribution Strip Module (12 Position, DIN Rail Mount)

CZH-LABS

Based on 3 reviews Check latest price

Product description

1, Working voltage DC 0 to 32V. Maximum total input current 30 Amps. 12 Channels output, each channel maximum output current 3 Amps (Factory-installed fuse value 3 Amps, you can replace the fuse to support up to 10 Amps.)

2, Input terminals pitch 7.62mm/0.3", maximum current 30 Amps for per position, wire size 26~10 AWG, stripping length 8mm, Metric M3 slotted screw. Support power supply expansion connect to other modules.

3, Output terminals pitch 5.0mm/0.197", wire size 26~12 AWG, stripping length 7mm, Metric M2.5 slotted screw.

4, Fuse holders for Medium Blade ATO/ATC Fuse, the fuse can be removed and replaced very easily. With fuse fail indication function, when you connected load and the fuse has blown or has been unplugged, fail indication LED will turn on.

5, FR-4 fiberglass dual copper layers PCB. High quality Taiwan DINKLE fireproof nylon material DIN rail mount carrier (not China low quality carrier), can support width 35mm rail.



CAD 3D(pdf): https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/A1cxUAA5qHL.pdf

  • Working voltage DC 0 to 32V. Maximum total input current 30 Amps. 12 Channels output, each channel maximum output current 3 Amps (Factory-installed fuse value 3 Amps, you can replace the fuse to support up to 10 Amps.)
  • Input terminals pitch 7.62mm/0.3", maximum current 30 Amps for per position, wire size 26~10 AWG, stripping length 8mm, Metric M3 slotted screw. Support power supply expansion connect to other modules.
  • Output terminals pitch 5.0mm/0.197", wire size 26~12 AWG, stripping length 7mm, Metric M2.5 slotted screw.
  • Fuse holders for Medium Blade ATO/ATC Fuse, the fuse can be removed and replaced very easily. With fuse fail indication function, when you connected load and the fuse has blown or has been unplugged, fail indication LED will turn on.
  • FR-4 fiberglass dual copper layers PCB. High quality Taiwan DINKLE fireproof nylon material DIN rail mount carrier (not China low quality carrier), can support width 35mm rail.

User questions & answers

Question: Which component limits this to 32v? I need something for 48v, .5a per port, so total of only 6a max
Answer: No

Southwire 19800102 Mini X-Treme Box Portable Temporary Power Distribution Box, Converts (1) L14-30P to (8) 5-20R

Coleman Cable

Based on 28 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Southwire's Mini X-Treme Box provides more compact and less costly work-site power distribution than other full size models. Used along with our restoration adapters, these units are ideal for disaster restoration work where the only available power is from range outlets, dryer outlets, or portable generators. They can be used in any situation where a more compact, easier-to-handle unit is desired to safely expand and distribute power on jobsites. 30Amp, 125/250 Volt Generator and dry outlets, and 50-amp 125/250-volt range outlets can now be converted to a GFCI/Breaker protected power distribution unit providing standard usable 125-volt power. the Mini X-Treme box offers a NEMA type-1 Enclosure with 4 NEMA 5-20R 20-Amp, Circuit breaker and GFCI protected outlets on the front, and the same 4 on the back. It features: OSHA and NEC Compliant, C(ETL)US Listed, and certified to CAN/CSA. Reduces electrical hookup and labor time. 8 overload-protected outlets use GFCI and circuit-breakers. All Outlets GFCI protected with open neutral and over-voltage protection. Compact size for ease of use. may be used in vertical or horizontal positions.

From the Manufacturer

Coleman Cable's Mini X-Treme Box provides more compact and less costly work-site power distribution than other full size models. Used along with our restoration adapters, these units are ideal for disaster restoration work where the only available power is from range outlets, dryer outlets, or portable generators. They can be used in any situation where a more compact, easier-to-handle unit is desired to safely expand and distribute power on jobsites. 30Amp, 125/250 Volt Generator and dry outlets, and 50-amp 125/250-volt range outlets can now be converted to a GFCI/Breaker protected power distribution unit providing standard usable 125-volt power. the Mini X-Treme box offers a NEMA type-1 Enclosure with 4 NEMA 5-20R 20-Amp, Circuit breaker and GFCI protected outlets on the front, and the same 4 on the back. It features: OSHA and NEC Compliant, C(ETL)US Listed, and certified to CAN/CSA. Reduces electrical hookup and labor time. 8 overload-protected outlets use GFCI and circuit-breakers. All Outlets GFCI protected with open neutral and over-voltage protection. Compact size for ease of use. may be used in vertical or horizontal positions.

  • 30 AMP Mini Portable Power Distribution Box
  • NEMA L14-30P Twist-Lock Power Inlet rated at 30 AMPS 125/250V; Power Supply Cord Required
  • overload, circuit-breaker protected NEMA 5-20 straight blade receptacles
  • All outlets are GFCI protected with open neutral and over-voltage protection
  • Compact size allows for ease of use
  • May be used in vertical or horizontal positions
  • Ready to use out of the box
  • OSHA and NEC Compliant, UL Listed, and Certified to CAN/CSA

User questions & answers

Question: I have a 11,000 watt generator to use as backup for my home when we have rolling blackouts will this unit work for powering some of my home
Answer: Everything you see in the picture is exactly what you will get. Two locks, two clips (they hold the locks in place), and two keys with a very cheap keyring.
Question: Can you change them together other words can you run one to the next to the next
Answer: Yes
Question: Thanks Dan H but (1) Does that make the box 60 amp total. (2) My 220v output is 20 amp, am I limited to 20 amp load or 40. (3) can I change to 30 amp output so I want overload and trip the breaker? My generator is 7500 watts I shouldn't overload it but I could overload the breaker because of the items I need to plug in
Answer: Not sure if it will fit but you don’t need anything else to install it. You’ll need a bleeder kit like any other master cylinder
Question: What kind of outlet does this unit plug into. Standard
Answer: I can't say where it was made but the product was as good as anyone you may find at the local auto store, good quality mfg. I've been using in my 2003 Silverado 1500HD with no problems, works perfect.

Product features

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Southwire Tools and Equipment: Built For Durability. Built For Reliability. Built For Work.

Southwire Tools & Equipment provides a comprehensive line of top-quality hand tools, meters, testers, lighting, extension cords, temporary power solutions and contractor equipment. Built for durability. Built for reliability. Built for work.

Lutron Caseta Smart Home Dimmer Switch, Works with Alexa, Apple HomeKit, and the Google Assistant | for LED Light Bulbs, Incandescent Bulbs and Halogen Bulbs | PD-6WCL-WH | White

Lutron

Based on 2 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Bring technology and style to your home with the Caseta Wireless In-Wall Dimmer; the dimmer that is compatible with all of today's bulbs types, including dimmable CFL and LED, halogen and incandescent. The wireless dimmer gives you the ability to set the right light for any activity whether it's reading, watching TV, entertaining, or having a casual dinner. Conveniently control the dimmer with a Lurton Pico remote control, sold separately. Wall plate sold separately.

  • PEACE OF MIND: Set lights to automatically adjust with seasons so your family always comes back to a well-lit home; Enable smart away to randomly turn your lights on/off to look like you’re home even if you’re away (smart bridge, L-BDG2-WH, required)
  • MOST CONNECTED: Caseta connects with more leading smart home devices – including Alexa, Apple HomeKit, the Google Assistant, Ring, Serena shades and Sonos – than any other smart lighting control brand (smart bridge required)
  • CONTROL YOUR WAY: Caseta puts the smarts in the switch so you can control a variety of ways – via the free Lutron app, your voice or from the wall; Schedule lights to change at set times or activate scenes with the touch of a button (bridge required)
  • GET MORE, SPEND LESS: One Caseta smart switch can control many bulbs at once; Make many bulbs smart, even your existing bulbs. Get smart control of multiple styles of dimmable LED, incandescent, and halogen bulbs
  • WORKS IN ANY HOME: Unlike other smart dimmer switches, Caseta works in any home, of any age, as it does not require a neutral wire
  • WIRELESS REMOTE CONTROL: For added convenience, use with wireless Pico remote (PJ2-3BRL-GXX-L01) to turn your lights on, off, or dim and brighten with the touch of a button from anywhere in the home
  • EASY 3-WAY SETUP: Create a 3-way by mounting Pico to almost any wall surface - no cutting holes or pulling wire, with a wall mount bracket (PICO-WBX-ADAPT sold separately). Replace existing 3-way switches by mounting the bracket and Pico over the backbox

Electronics-Salon DIN Rail Mount 10 Position Power Distribution Fuse Module Board, for AC/DC 5~48V

Electronics-Salon

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price

Product description

DIN Rail Mount Power Distribution Fuse Module Board.



Specification:

Work voltage: AC or DC 5~48V, total current rating 40Amp.

PCB Dimensions: 150mm x 72.5mm x 29mm (W x L x H).

Module Dimensions: 153mm x 87mm x 53mm (W x L x H).

Input terminals: pitch - 7.62mm/0.3", current 30A for per position, wire size 26~10 AWG, stripping length 8mm, Metric M3 slotted screw.

P1 output terminals: pitch - 5.08mm/0.2", maximum current 10A for per position, wire size 26~12 AWG, stripping length 7mm, Metric M2.5 slotted screw.

P2-1 to P2-10 output terminals: pitch - 7.5mm/0.295", maximum current 6.3A for per position, wire size 26~12 AWG, stripping length 7mm, Metric M2.5 slotted screw.

Fuse holders for 5x20mm(DxL) tube fuse, factory-installed fuses T6.3Amp. with fuse fail indication function

FR-4 fiber glass PCB, dual copper layers.

fireproof nylon material DIN rail mount carrier (not China low quality carrier), can support width 35mm / 32mm / 15mm rail, and the carrier can be taken apart for panel mount use.

　

  • DIN Rail Mount Power Distribution Fuse Module Board.
  • Work voltage: AC or DC 5~48V, total current rating 40Amp. PCB Dimensions: 150mm x 72.5mm x 29mm (W x L x H). Module Dimensions: 153mm x 87mm x 53mm (W x L x H).
  • Input terminals: pitch - 7.62mm/0.3", current 30A for per position, wire size 26~10 AWG, stripping length 8mm, Metric M3 slotted screw.
  • P1 output terminals: pitch - 5.08mm/0.2", maximum current 10A for per position, wire size 26~12 AWG, stripping length 7mm, Metric M2.5 slotted screw.
  • P2-1 to P2-10 output terminals: pitch - 7.5mm/0.295", maximum current 6.3A for per position, wire size 26~12 AWG, stripping length 7mm, Metric M2.5 slotted screw.

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