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We celebrate 100 years of the Miniature Circuit Breaker

In 1881, Schneider Electric took a pivotal step in electrical safety that would shape the future of power distribution. This year marked the beginning of their journey in developing electrical protection and energy management technologies, long before it became a standard in electrical systems. 

Circuit breakers are the unsung heroes of modern lives: They automatically interrupt electrical flow when a fault is detected, preventing fires, equipment damage, and potential loss of life. By instantly cutting power during overloads or short circuits, they've made electricity safer and more reliable for homes, businesses, and industries worldwide. 

Schneider Electric's innovations laid the foundation for 150 years of advancements in electrical protection, through its history, and the history of their renowned brands: Square D, Merlin Gerin, Feller, Lauritz Knudsen, Clipsal, etc. As we celebrate this long history of innovation, we continue to pioneer new technologies for an increasingly electrified world.

History of Miniature Circuit Breaker

Infographic Showing 100 years of Innovation in MCB

Innovation through time

A close-up of a coin

Year, 1881

Medal for Schneider & Cie participation in the International Fair of Electricity in Paris, France, 1881.
A close-up of a paper

Year, 1912

Electrical components customers’ catalogue, Schneider & Cie, 1912​.
A close-up of a metal box

Year, 1936

The first residential building panelboard was the multi-breakers and the MO-4 panelboard, Square D, 1936​.
A close-up of a circuit breaker

Year, 1951

First plug-on breaker to the panelboard which facilitates the installation for electricians by making it a simple brick game.
Close-up of a circuit breaker

Year, 1955

Square D introduces the first “Qwik-Open” QO circuit breaker, with the slogan “Finest Breaker Ever Built!”.
A clear plastic fuse with black buttons

Year, 1972

First household circuit breaker branded Merlin Gerin.
A close-up of a circuit breaker

Year, 1980

Merlin Gerin multi-9 series, iconic household breakers​. The multi-9 series is the iconic range from the 1980’s to the 2000’s.​
A close-up of a machine

Year, 2024

X-ray of a household circuit breaker, from 1936 in Grenoble and onwards, Schneider Electric and its brands host in-house 100% of the required test capabilities for breakers.
A white electrical device with a green button

Today

Resi9 range of miniature circuit breakers​​.

Modern home electrical safety

The fascinating role of Miniature Circuit Breakers

Circuit breakers, essential components of home electrical panels, have evolved from basic safety devices to sophisticated guardians of our modern, electrified lives. As homes embrace smart technology, electric vehicles, and renewable energy, these unsung heroes a growing crucial role in managing complex power needs. Everyday, they silently protect our lives, belongings and homes from electrical hazards.

Next-generation innovations

Boost your home's energy efficiency

Energy-efficient homes are a win-win, benefiting both the environment and your wallet in the long term. By adopting smart energy-saving strategies, you can significantly reduce your carbon footprint while cutting down on utility costs.
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