Abstract: An apparatus and method for forming a control node in a programmable architecture, is disclosed. The node includes a plurality of user-programmable, microprocessor-based modules connected together. The modules are connected to create a parallel-processing environment with a selected functionality. Hot-swapping of the modules can be determined in the node. Power is distributed throughout the modules in the node. The modules may be automatically programmed to accommodate a target independent device.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for forming a control node in a programmable architecture, is disclosed. The node includes a plurality of user-programmable, microprocessor-based modules connected together. The modules are connected to create a parallel-processing environment with a selected functionality. Hot-swapping of the modules can be determined in the node. Power is distributed throughout the modules in the node. The modules may be automatically programmed to accommodate a target independent device.

Abstract: A two wire solid state AC/DC circuit breaker has a line terminal for connecting the power and the load terminal for connecting to a load. A pair of insulated gate bipolar transistors (IGBTs) are connected in parallel across the line and load terminals in reversed polarity relative to one another. A diode is placed in series with each IGBT limiting current flow to the direction of polarity of the IGBT. Current sensing circuitry is connected across the terminals for sensing current passing through the IGBTs and when a predetermined level has been exceeded, a voltage pulse is generated to the respective bases of the IGBTs to turn them off. This terminates current flow through the respective IGBTs instantaneously.