What is the key difference between a manual reset and an automatic reset circuit breaker?

The key difference between a manual reset and an automatic reset circuit breaker lies in how they respond to faults in the circuit. A manual reset circuit breaker requires user intervention to reset and restore power once a fault has been detected and cleared. This means that the user must physically turn the breaker back on after it has tripped due to an overload or short circuit.

In contrast, an automatic reset circuit breaker will automatically re-engage after the fault condition clears on its own. This means that once the issue that caused the breaker to trip resolves (like a temporary overload), the breaker restores power without needing any action from the user. This function can be convenient in certain applications where continuous system operation is required, but it may also come with some risks if the fault reoccurs.

This understanding of the fault-clearing process and user involvement is essential for safely managing electrical systems and ensuring proper fault management.