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Series 300 Frequently Asked Questions
Features
Can I adjust the sensing of the controller?
How do I communicate with the ATS?
How do I prevent or inhibit the ATS from transferring?
How do I set the engine exerciser?
How does the engine exerciser work?
How do I set the in-phase monitor?
How do I specify a automatic transfer switch?
How do I specify the type of neutral?
How do I specify the TVSS for the ATS?
What auxiliary features does the ATS offer?
What is the operating temperature of the ATS?
What is the WCR of the ATS?
Where can I get load shed signals?
Where can I get post and pre-transfer signals on the ATS?
Where can I get source availability signals?
Where can I get switch position contacts?
Where can I send remote transfer signals?
Which breakers are tested with an ASCO transfer switch?
Operation
How do I manually operate the ATS?
How do I perform a transfer test?
How do I set the transfer time delays?
How does a non-automatic transfer switch work?
How does an automatic transfer switch work?
Is there a preferred source?
What is the contact transfer time of the ATS?
Product Installation
Can I change the lugs of the ATS?
Can I power-up the switch without any generator installed?
Can the ATS switch between two different voltages?
Can the ATS switch between two utilities?
How do I configure the ATS controller?
How do I install the ATS?
What generator models are compatible with the ATS?
What should be the cable size for the ATS power connections?
Where can I get the weight and dimensions of the ATS?
Where do I connect the power cables?
Wiring
How do I connect an 11BG?
How do I connect an acc. 73?
Where do I connect the engine start wires?
Service
Can I change the neutral pole of the ATS?
Can I modify the ATS to be service entrance rated?
Can I modify the voltage rating of the ATS?
How can I convert a non-automatic to an automatic transfer switch?
How can I replace the ATS under warranty?
How do I contact a service technician?
How do I convert the ATS from 3Φ to 1Φ?
How do I replace the coil kit?
How do I replace the rectifier kit?
How do I replace the control panel?
How will I know if the controller is damaged?
What can cause the breaker to trip during transfer?
What should be done if the indicator lights have malfunctioned?
Why are the time delays not working?
Why won't the ATS retransfer to normal?
Why won't the ATS start the generator?
Why won't the ATS transfer to emergency?
Why won't the engine exerciser work properly?
Why won't the generator shut-off?
Others
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Are the main contacts replaceable?
How do I turn-off the power to the ATS?
How do I upgrade my engine exerciser to the latest DST?
How often should the exerciser battery be changed?
Is there a polarity for the TS coil of an ATS?
Literature Request
Order processing
Parts Inquiry
Request for price and availability
Request for preventive maintenance procedures
Where can I buy an ASCO transfer switch?
Warranty Issues
Features
Can I adjust the sensing of the controller?
Follow the corresponding DIP switch adjustment on Table 4-2.
For other set point value requirements, consult Technical Support at 1-800-800 ASCO (2726).
How do I communicate with the ATS?
Communication with the series 300 switches can be accomplished using the serial communications module
5110 (accessory 72A) for RS-485 / RS-232 serial connections, and the connectivity module 5150 (accessory
72E) for Ethernet connections.
What communication protocol does it use?
Series 300 products communicate using ASCOBUS II protocol (9600 Baud Rate).
Can I use the Power Quest Software for the 300 series?
Yes. An accessory 72A with a power manager or a 72E module is required to enable communication
of the ATS controller (Group 1) with other ASCO devices and your remote computer. Click here to view the
set-up.
How do I prevent or inhibit ATS transfer?
Only inhibit transfer to the emergency position can be initiated on the series 300 product line. Flip the DIP
switch S2 actuator 4 to the ON position. (See page 5-4 of the Operator’s Manual) Click here to view Operator’s
Manual.
Configure the DIP switch based on Table 1.
Set the battery jumper to “ON”. Click here for battery location.
• Then press the set engine exerciser button and hold it for 5 sec.
• The status LED blinks rapidly and then slowly after the button is released.
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How do I set the engine exerciser?
• The exerciser starts the generator and the emergency available light should turn “ON”.
• If the exercise is set with load: - The N/E timer counts down and then the load transfers to emergency.
• The load retransfers to normal before the 5 min cool down.
- The generator runs a 5 minute cool down.
- Then the status LED stays “ON”.
• If the exercise is set without load:
- The generator exercises for 20 minutes and then shuts down.
- Then the status LED stays “ON”.
If a programmable engine exerciser is furnished and activated:
• Configure the DIP switch based on Table 2.
• Set the battery jumper to “ON”. Click here for battery location.
• Follow the wiring of the programmable engine exerciser (11BG) based on the drawing.
• Go to the Engine Exerciser Display using the UP and DOWN arrow keys then press ENTER.
• Set the Engine Exerciser to “Enabled” using the UP and DOWN arrow keys then press ENTER to save.
• Go to the Start Time Display using the UP and DOWN arrow keys then press ENTER.
• Choose the exercise schedule you want to set by using the UP and DOWN arrow keys then press
ENTER to save the setting and move to another field. Below is the list of parameter choices:
Example:
“Alt Sat @ 15:00”
Start minutes (0 through 59)
Start hour (0 through 23)
Day of week (”Sun” through “Sat”)
Weekly (”Every”) or bi–weekly (”Alt”) operation
• After saving the schedule, go to the Run Time Display using the UP and DOWN arrow keys then press
ENTER.
• Set the Run Time using the UP and DOWN arrow keys then press ENTER to save.
• Go to the Time Display and set the present time following this format: “hours: minutes: seconds”.
• After saving the Time settings, go to the Date Display and set the date following this format: “day of week
(week) month/day of month/year”
• If you want the time to Detect Daylight Saving Time, just enable it under the Daylight Savings Time Adjust
Display and press ENTER to save the setting.
How does the engine exerciser function?
The engine exerciser works by closing the engine start contacts and keeping it closed in order to crank and run
the generator. The engine start contacts are kept closed until the exerciser operation timer expires
(approximately 20 minutes). Controller signals the engine start contacts to open up and shut the generator
down completely (after the 5 minute engine cool down period).
INPHASE MONITOR
FOR MOTOR LOAD TRANSFER
In phase monitoring logic controls transfer and retransfer of motor loads between live power sources under
controlled conditions, so that inrush currents do not exceed normal starting currents. It helps avoid nuisance
tripping of circuit breakers and mechanical damage to motor couplings.
The Motor Load Transfer feature is built into the controller. DIP switch S1 (actuator 5) activates this feature:
right = ON, left = OFF.
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How do I set the in-phase monitor?
Shaded DIP switches are standard factory settings.
If the Motor Load Transfer feature is enabled, it will be activated following the Load Disconnect Feature Delay
before Transfer delay.
How do I specify an ATS?
For Series 300 (Automatic) click here
For 386 (Non-automatic) click here
For Service Entrance 3AUS click here
For a Series 300L Power Transfer Load Center just click here
How do I specify the type of neutral required?
A Solid Neutral means that the system neutral conductors (load, emergency and utility) are solidly bonded to a
common lug and a copper plate. The connection of the 3 neutral conductors is fixed to the common lug. It is
denoted by an A2 (2 pole) or A3 (3 pole) in the catalog.
A Switched Neutral means that the load neutral conductor connection is switched between the emergency
neutral and the utility neutral. It is denoted by a B2 (2 pole) or B3 (3 pole) in the catalog number string.
An Overlapping Neutral means that the load neutral conductor is connected to both the normal and
emergency neutrals before the transfer and then remains in the position where the switch transferred to. It is a
make before break neutral design. It is denoted by a C2 (2 pole) or C3 (3 pole) in the catalog number string.
How do I specify the TVSS for the ATS?
Specify the surge suppressor (Accessory 73) as an optional accessory upon ordering:
73AC1
73AC2
73AC3
Notes:
Normal source protection. (3Ø, 4wire WYE)
Emergency source protection. (3Ø, 4wire WYE)
Load side protection. (3Ø, 4wire WYE)
Other distribution voltages available, supplied as a standalone, not mounted or wired.
(Contact ASCO).
What auxiliary control features does the ATS offer?
3. Remote Test – Requires a customer supplied normally closed contact. Opening of the contact simulates a
failure of the normal source similar to the sequence for the transfer switch test push button. The transfer switch
will remain connected to the emergency source under all conditions while the contact is open.
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1. Accessory 14A – Auxiliary Contacts which are closed on normal.
2. Accessory 14B – Auxiliary Contacts which are closed on emergency.
4. Remote Transfer to Emergency (Feature 17) – Requires a customer supplied normally closed contact.
Opening of the contact initiates engine start and transfer to the emergency source. Closing the contact
activates the retransfer to normal delay prior to re-transfer. In the event that the emergency source fails while
the transfer switch is connected to emergency and the remote contact is open, the transfer switch will
automatically retransfer to the normal source.
5. Inhibit Transfer to Emergency (Feature 34B) – Requires a customer supplied normally closed contact.
Opening of the contact will prohibit the transfer switch from transferring to the emergency source while
connected to the normal source.
6. Bypass Transfer Time Delay - Requires a customer supplied normally closed contact. Opening of the
contact bypasses the retransfer to normal time delay if active.
What is the operating temperature of the ATS?
The standard operating temperature of the ATS is 0 to 40ºC or 32 to 104ºF, controller is –20 to 60ºC or –4 to
140ºF.
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Note: When temperatures can be experienced below 32ºF, a strip heater (Accessory 44A & 44G) can be
used to help prevent freezing and condensation.
What is the WCR of my ATS?
For the any breaker WCR, refer to the table below.
Notes:
1. All values are available symmetrical RMS amperes and tested in accordance with the withstand and closeon requirements of UL 1008. See Publication 1128 for more information on withstand and close-on ratings for
ASCO transfer switches.
2. Application requirements may permit higher withstand ratings for certain size switches. Contact ASCO for
guidance if available short circuit current exceeds the WCR ratings shown.
3. "Any" breaker ratings are based on 1.5 cycles for 30 -230 amp and 3 cycles for 260 - 4000 amps. Applicable
to breakers with instantaneous trip elements.
4. Short time ratings are provided for applications involving breakers that do not have instantaneous trips for
systems coordination.
5. Short time rating applicable to transfer switch design only.
6. Optional front connected service limited to 85,000 amps for specific and any breaker rating.
Where can I get load shed signals?
Series 300 ATS product line does not have load shed capability options. This feature is only available with
4000 or 7000 series.
Where can I get post and pre-transfer signals on the ATS?
Connect external circuits to the terminals indicated on the Wiring Diagram
provided with the ATS.
The double throw (Form C) contact is rated for 28VDC or 120VAC (5 amps
resistive). The contact operates prior to a selectable 0, 3, 10, or 20 second
delay before transfer of the Automatic Transfer Switch. The contact resets
either immediately following transfer or after the same delay as set for pre–
signal before transfer. Time delay between the load disconnect control
signal and initiation of transfer is set on the controller with DIP switch S2
(actuators 6, 7, 8) as shown below:
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It is called Load Disconnect Contacts.
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Where can I get source availability signals?
Source availability contacts are available with feature 11BG. See below:
Where can I get switch position contacts?
Switch position contacts are normally open contacts that close either to normal or emergency source. They are
accessory 14A for normal and 14B for emergency. One set is standard.
Where can I get remote transfer signals?
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For remote transfer signals, click here:
Which breakers are tested with an ASCO transfer switch?
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See Publication 1128 (Withstand and Closed-On Ratings).
Operation
How do I manually operate the ATS?
1. Turn-off all in-coming power to the ATS by switching-off the breakers on normal and emergency sources.
2. Verify that there is no voltage across the normal and emergency terminals.
Manually switch the ATS following the figures listed below.
For D300 (30-230A)
For E300 & A300 (260-400A)
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For H300 (800-1200A)
For G300 (1000-3000A)
How do I perform a transfer test?
Press transfer switch test button and hold it for 15 seconds or until the generator starts and a transfer occurs.
How do I set the transfer time delays?
Refer to table 4-1 for the corresponding adjustment. Click here for the DIP switch and Potentiometer location.
How does the transfer switch work?
(For detailed explanation, refer to section 2 of the operator’s manual)
For Non-Automatic Transfer Switches: Transfer switch operation is performed manually, as well as cranking
and starting of the generator; the transfer switch time delays are set the same as the automatic transfer switch.
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The ATS controller monitors the voltage and frequency of normal and emergency. When the normal voltage
(utility voltage) fails (The voltage is below the drop-out setting), the controller waits 1 to 3 seconds before it
starts the generator. After the delay of 3 seconds, and normal voltage doesn’t pick-up (The voltage reaches the
pick-up setting), the ATS starts the generator and goes through another time delay (N/E timer) to monitor its
voltage and frequency. Once the timer expires, and utility voltage does not pick-up, the load transfers to
emergency. The load stays on emergency until utility power is restored. When utility power is restored, the ATS
initiates another time delay (E/N timer) before it retransfers to normal. After the time delay expires, the load
retransfers to utility and the generator goes to cool down cycle for 5 minutes. Then the generator automatically
shuts down.
Is there a preferred source?
Yes, normal (utility) source is considered preferred.
What is the contact transfer time of the ATS?
The contact transfer time of the ATS will not exceed 100 ms for all frame sizes.
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Note: The actual Hot-Hot transfer time; varies based on ampere frame size.
Product Installation
Can I change the lugs of the ATS?
No, series 300’s have standard screw type mechanical lug configurations that cannot be changed or modified.
Can I power-up the switch without any generator installed?
The switch can be powered even without the generator installed. Follow the installation procedure from the
installation manual furnished with the switch.
Note: If utility fails there will be no alternate source for the ATS to transfer to.
Can the ATS switch between two different voltages?
No, the voltage potential for normal and emergency sources must be the same.
The voltage supplied across the normal terminals should be the same as the voltage across the generator
(emergency) terminals.
Can the ATS switch between two utilities?
Yes. A Series 300 ATS can switch between two utilities sources.
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How do I configure the ATS controller?
Adjust the DIP switch based on Table 4-2 and Table 4-3.
How do I install the ATS?
The ATS should be installed following the procedure in the installation manual, wiring diagrams and the notes
on the mounting diagrams.
Click here to find the drawings.
What generator models are compatible with the ATS?
The generator must be equipped with 2 wire start, and connected to the
engine start circuit of the transfer switch.
What is the acceptable cable size for the ATS power connections?
Click here
Where can I get the weight and dimensions of the ATS?
Click here
Where do I connect the power cables?
Click here to get the wiring and the outline and mounting diagrams.
Wiring
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How do I connect an 11BG?
To connect an 11BG (Programmable Engine Exerciser), just follow the
wiring diagram below. To use 11BG, configure the Group 1 DIP switch
based on Table 2.
How do I connect an acc. 73?
The accessory 73 (TVSS) is wired following the specified application or mode of protection. It also depends on
what configuration was specified. It is recommended to have an ASI service technician to install this in the
switch.
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Where do I connect the engine start wires?
The ampere rating of the switch determines the location of where to connect the engine start wires. They are
ether connected to terminal 14 and 15 (closes to start), 14 and 16 (opens to start); or terminals 1 and 2 (closes
to start), 1 and 3 (opens to start. Refer to wiring diagram supplied with this switch for proper connection location
(wiring diagram).
Service
Can I change the neutral pole of the ATS?
No. It can only be specified upon ordering. The switch can be returned to our factory for modifications or a
replacement switch purchased. Contact ASCO Services for details.
Can I modify the switch to be service entrance rated?
This is not practical; a new enclosure may be required. In addition, a circuit breaker and a neutral and ground
disconnect link is needed.
Can I modify the voltage rating of the ATS?
Yes, controller and coil would need to be replaced with proper voltage configuration.
How can I convert a non-automatic to an automatic transfer switch?
Conversion of a non-automatic series 386 to a series 300 ATS can be done by replacing a door controller and
connecting it to the group 1 control panel; and re-setting the DIP switches for automatic operation. The engine
start wire needs to be connected to the engine start contacts for automatic function. It is recommended this
modification be done by an ASCO Services technician. If done by a third party the warranty will be voided.
Can I replace the ATS under warranty?
Yes, as long as the switch is within the warranty period. Contact ASCO Power Warranty for guidance on
procedure.
How do I contact a service technician?
Contact a local ASCO Services representative by calling the toll free hotline (1-800-2726), then go to option 2
then 3 on the prompt or connect with any customer service representative. They will transfer you to a local
service technician’s office in your area.
How do I convert the ATS from 3φ to 1φ?
Connect the power cables to Phase A and C and turn actuator 6 of DIP switch S1 to “ON”.
(Note: Voltage must be the same when converting from 3φ to 1φ.)
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How do I replace the coil kit?
Follow the guidelines on the service bulletin provided with the coil kit.
It is recommended to have an accredited ASI service technician replace the coil.
How do I replace the rectifier kit?
How do I replace the control panel?
Contact your local generator dealer or ASCO Services for controller replacement.
How will I know if the controller is non-operational?
-The indicator lights are not showing proper indications.
- The relays are not operating according to the normal sequence (no voltage from the board socket to supply
the relay coils).
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-The switch transfers even if there is no loss of utility power and no transfer test operation or exercise with
transfer is confirmed.
- The engine exerciser has malfunctioned even if the battery is new, or exercises at a random schedule, or
does not function.
- The generator would not start even when a start signal is verified or does not shut down .
- The command buttons, DIP switches or potentiometers are non operational.
- Discoloration or indication of damaged components visible on the circuit board.
- Remote control switches are not functioning even though proper values have been set.
- No power present at inputs from the harness.
- No output voltage or signal on the J2 plug.
What can cause the breaker to trip during transfer?
- In phase monitor feature is not enabled on the switch.
- Phase difference.
- Both Normal and Emergency sources are utility and/or transformer sources.
- Large motor loads.
- Transformer loads.
- UPS loads.
- Breaker is underrated for the specific load it carries.
- Breaker is not specified for the available fault of the system load.
- Breaker has a 1.0 cycle or less rating.
- System fault.
- Voltage surge.
- Over current / Overloading.
What should be done if the indicator lights have malfunctioned?
Check that the ribbon cable is properly connected to the door interface and the group 1 controller; then check
the LED voltages to confirm they are working properly, check buttons to determine if they are functional.
Confirm if the malfunction is the indicator lights or the membrane panel itself, the door interface may need to be
replaced.
Why are the time delays not working?
- Check P1 and P2 potentiometer settings.
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- Bypass time delay (remote feature or membrane panel button) may be enabled.
Why won’t the ATS re-transfer to normal?
- SE relay malfunction, check the relay contacts to verify they are changing contact positions accordingly.
- Coil clearing contact malfunction.
- Time delays for re-transfer to normal source has not expired. Check P1 potentiometer.
- Normal has not stabilized.
- Controller issue.
Why won't the ATS start the generator?
• Engine start wires are not connected to the engine start contacts (terminal 15 and 16 for a closed to start and
14 and 16 for an opening to start generator).
• Generator engine start control not set to AUTO position.
• Generator is not a 2-wire start
• No continuity on the engine-start wires (check wires for breaks).
• Generator Controller issue.
• NR relay nonoperational (controller should be replaced).
Why won't the ATS transfer to emergency?
- ER relay nonoperational, check relay contacts and relay coil; replace if
necessary.
- Coil clearing contact malfunction.
- Time delay on transfer to emergency has not expired. Check P1 dial for time delay setting.
- Generator source is not acceptable (compare switch voltage rating with the generated voltage of the engine).
- Controller issue.
Why won't the engine exerciser work properly?
- DIP switch settings.
- 9V Battery needs to be replaced.
- Battery jumper not set to ON position.
-11BG optional engine exerciser and standard exerciser are both enabled.
Set only one exerciser.
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- NR relay / Controller issue.
Why won't the generator shut-off?
- Cool down period is has not expired.
- Remote feature is enabled. Check remote control feature settings.
- Normal power is not available.
- NR relay nonoperational / Controller issue.
- Micro switch issue. Check micro switch aux.14 for engine start.
Others
Are the main contacts replaceable?
The main contacts can be replaced by certified ASCO service technicians.
How do I turn-off the power to the ATS?
De-energize the switch by turning off the breaker on the utility and generator source.
How do I upgrade my engine exerciser to the latest DST?
Group 5 controllers and 11BG engine exercisers are configured to conform to the latest DST. Click the link
below for more information.
Link: http://www.asco.com/whatsnew/DST2007.html
How often should the exerciser battery be changed?
On a group 1 controller, the 9V alkaline battery lasts 2 years before
gradually depleting. Check the battery regularly and replace if necessary in
order to have optimum engine exerciser operation.
Is there a polarity for the TS coil of an ATS?
Yes. They are marked + and – on the rectifier socket.
Literature Request
Standard wiring, outlines, and mounting diagrams, as well as operator’s manuals are available on the ASCO
website (www.ascopower.com). For specific drawings and manual copies, contact customer service at 1-800800-ASCO (2726) so they can email them to you (in .PDF format).
Order processing
Contact the local sales office for verification on the status of your order. You can contact them via the website
by entering your zip code to locate them. Click on this link: http://www.asco.com/contact/zipcode.htm
Go to www.ascopower.com then click on ASCOParts.com for available part numbers and their prices. For
definition and verification of the part, contact Technical Support (1-800-800-ASCO got to option 2 then 1). For
pricing and availability, contact Cheryl Escotido (ASI Parts) at 973-966-2525 for assistance.
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Parts Inquiry
Request for price and availability
Contact the local sales office for quote pricing and availability of ASCO products. Click on this link:
http://www.asco.com/contact/zipcode.htm and enter your zip code to locate the ASCO representative in your
area.
Request for preventive maintenance procedures
Contact ASCO Services technician’s office via 1-800-800-ASCO (2726), go to option 2 then 3.
Where can I buy an ASCO transfer switch?
Contact the local sales office for pricing and availability of ASCO products. Click on this link:
http://www.asco.com/contact/zipcode.htm and enter your zip code to locate the ASCO representative in your
area.
Warranty Issues?
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Click Here for warranty information.
Table 1. DIP Switch Settings
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Table 2. DIP Switch Settings
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Control Panel (Group 1)
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11BG Wiring:
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Table 3. Voltage Codes and Power Source Configurations