Abstract: An electronic switching apparatus comprising an elongate device having an opening in one end thereof for receipt of an electric conductor therethrough, a transformer winding surrounding the opening within the device such that a voltage will be induced in the transformer when a current passes through the conductor, means for detecting the induced voltage and providing a shunt in response to the induced voltage, a path through the device having a controlled rectifier therein, the rectifier having a gate, a circuit connecting the gate to the path for causing the rectifier to conduct, the shunt providing a shunt around the gate to prevent the rectifier from conducting.