Introduction
In the world of motor protection, the GE Multilin 469 series is a legendary workhorse. However, choosing the wrong configuration can lead to installation failures or equipment damage. Today, we will compare two of the most frequently searched models: 469-P1-HI-A20-E and 469-P5-LO-A20-E.
1. The Core Difference: Current Transformer (CT) Inputs
The most critical distinction lies in the first suffix (P1 vs. P5):
- 469-P1-HI-A20-E: Features 1A phase CT secondaries. This is typically used in applications where the CT is located far from the relay to minimize lead burden.
- 469-P5-LO-A20-E: Features 5A phase CT secondaries. This is the standard configuration for most North American and industrial power system applications.
- Note: Using a P1 relay with a 5A CT will result in incorrect readings and potential relay damage.
GE Multilin 469-P1-HI-A20-E-H Motor Management Relay Front Panel label
GE Multilin 469-P5-LO-A20-E Motor Management Relay label
2. Power Supply Range: HI vs. LO
The second major difference is the control power input (HI vs. LO):
- HI (High Voltage): Supports 125–250 V DC or 110–240 V AC. Ideal for standard plant power grids.
- LO (Low Voltage): Supports 24–48 V DC. Often used in battery-backed systems or specific telecommunications environments.
3. Specifications At a Glance (Comparison Table)
| Feature | 469-P1-HI-A20-E | 469-P5-LO-A20-E |
| Phase CT Input | 1 A | 5 A |
| Control Power | 110-240VAC / 125-250VDC | 24-48VDC |
| Analog Outputs | 4-20 mA (A20) | 4-20 mA (A20) |
| Display Type | Enhanced (E) | Enhanced (E) |
4. Common Issues and Troubleshooting
Based on field feedback, here are three common questions engineers ask about these models:
- “Can I swap a HI model for a LO model?” No, unless you change the entire control voltage circuit.
- “What does the ‘A20’ suffix mean?” It indicates the unit is equipped with 4-20 mA analog outputs for integration with PLC/DCS systems.
- “Is the ‘E’ version compatible with older firmware?” The Enhanced (E) version usually offers better display clarity and updated communication protocols, but always verify firmware compatibility before upgrading.
Conclusion
Whether you are maintaining a legacy system or designing a new motor control center, understanding these suffixes is vital. We stock both 469-P1-HI-A20-E and 469-P5-LO-A20-E to ensure your plant stays running without downtime.
