Reliable WCQ2C 2P Electric Dual Power Automatic Transfer Switch

The WCQ2C 2P is an electrically operated, two-pole automatic transfer switch from Westhomes, used to switch a single-phase load between two AC sources — usually utility mains and a backup generator — without any manual intervention. The "electric" designation means a motor/ solenoid actuator drives the contacts rather than a manual handle.

As a 2P unit it switches both the phase and the neutral of a single-phase 220/230V circuit. It is intended for residential single-phase backup, small offices, shops, telecom enclosures, security systems, and any single-phase critical load. Three-phase applications require the 3P or 4P variants of the WCQ2C series.

An electric actuator lets the controller transfer the load in milliseconds and repeatably, even when no one is on site. It also provides consistent timing, auxiliary contact signalling for remote monitoring, and interlocking that cannot be defeated by a rushed operator. Manual handles are still provided for commissioning and emergency operation, but normal duty is fully automatic.

The controller samples voltage and frequency on the preferred (mains) source. On loss or undervoltage beyond the adjustable delay, it sends a start signal to the generator, waits until generator output is stable, then opens the mains poles and closes the generator poles. Once mains returns and remains stable for the re-transfer delay, it transfers back and signals the generator to cool down and stop.

The contact transfer itself is typically on the order of tens to a few hundred milliseconds for this class of electrically operated ATS. Total load interruption is dominated by the generator start delay, usually 5–15 seconds. Adjustable delay timers prevent nuisance transfers caused by brief utility flicker.

The WCQ2C series is offered in compact frame sizes covering common single-phase ratings, typically from 16A up to 100A (including 16, 20, 25, 32, 40, 50, 63, 80, 100A). You choose the rating based on the actual load current, with margin for motor starting and any future expansion.

The switch mounts on a DIN rail or within an enclosure in the distribution panel. Source 1 and Source 2 feed the two input terminals, and the load connects to the output; phase and neutral are wired on both sides, and the enclosure is bonded to earth. A separate control cable runs to the generator start contacts, and the phase/polarity must be verified before energising.

Yes. An ATS only cares that both inputs are acceptable AC sources — it does not care what produces them. It can transfer between the grid and a battery inverter/UPS, between two utility feeds, or between mains and a generator. When paired with a UPS or inverter, the transfer can be nearly seamless because the standby source is already running.

The WCQ2C series is built and type-tested to IEC 60947-6-1 for low-voltage transfer switching equipment up to 1000 V AC, and is normally CE-marked. Datasheets, type-test reports, and conformity documentation are available for project approvals and tenders.

A manual 2P changeover switch is a low-cost rotary device that requires a person to operate it and cannot start a standby source. The WCQ2C 2P is electrically driven and controller-based, so it senses faults, starts the generator, waits for stable output, and transfers automatically. It is the right choice for unattended or critical loads, while the manual switch is only adequate for attended sites with someone on site 24/7.