Product Overview

The Schneider Electric ATS01N244Q Altistart 01 Soft Starter is an industrial motor starting device designed to control the starting and stopping process of three-phase asynchronous motors. It belongs to the Altistart 01 product family and is intended for simple industrial machinery that requires controlled motor acceleration and reduced mechanical stress during startup.

When a three-phase induction motor starts directly across the line, it can draw a high inrush current and produce substantial starting torque. These conditions may cause voltage disturbances in the electrical network and mechanical stress on connected equipment. A soft starter addresses these issues by gradually increasing the voltage applied to the motor during startup.

The ATS01N244Q is rated for a 400 V AC three-phase supply and has a starter current rating of 44 A. It supports motors rated up to 22 kW at 400 V under the specified operating conditions. Its voltage-ramp starting method allows the acceleration process to be adjusted to suit the motor and driven machine.

This model includes an integrated bypass function, built-in control supply, 24 V discrete control inputs, and relay outputs. Starting and deceleration times can be adjusted from 1 to 25 seconds. These features make it suitable for selected applications involving pumps, fans, conveyors, and other industrial machinery with relatively straightforward starting requirements.

The ATS01N244Q is part of the Altistart 01 range, which focuses on basic soft-starting functions rather than the more extensive motor-management capabilities found in advanced soft starter families. It should therefore be selected according to the actual motor current, load characteristics, starting frequency, and required control functions.

The model has been discontinued by Schneider Electric. It may still be encountered in existing industrial installations and spare-parts inventories. When purchasing or replacing this device, engineers should verify the full model number and compare the electrical and operational requirements of the original installation.

Technical Specifications

Note: Ratings depend on the specified supply voltage, motor characteristics, operating cycle, and installation conditions. Verify the manufacturer’s technical documentation before selecting the starter for a particular motor.

Function and Working Principle

The ATS01N244Q controls the voltage supplied to an asynchronous motor during starting. Instead of applying full line voltage immediately, it increases the motor voltage progressively according to the configured starting ramp.

This controlled voltage application helps reduce the electrical and mechanical effects associated with direct-on-line starting.

1. Voltage-Ramp Starting

The primary operating method of the ATS01N244Q is voltage-ramp starting. At the beginning of the starting sequence, the soft starter applies a reduced voltage to the motor. It then increases the voltage progressively until the motor reaches normal operating conditions.

The starting ramp can be adjusted between 1 and 25 seconds. A suitable setting depends on the motor’s characteristics, load inertia, and required acceleration time.

For example, a pump may require a gradual acceleration process to reduce sudden changes in fluid pressure. A conveyor may need controlled acceleration to prevent products from shifting or slipping during startup.

2. Limiting Starting Current

Direct-on-line motor starting can produce a high current peak. The ATS01N244Q reduces the initial voltage applied to the motor, helping limit the starting current compared with an uncontrolled direct-on-line start.

The actual current depends on the motor, load, supply conditions, and ramp configuration. A soft starter does not provide the same continuous speed-control function as a variable frequency drive.

Once the motor reaches normal operating conditions, it generally runs at the speed determined by the supply frequency and motor characteristics.

3. Controlled Deceleration

The ATS01N244Q also provides an adjustable deceleration function. The deceleration time can be set from 1 to 25 seconds.

Controlled stopping may be useful for applications where an abrupt stop could create mechanical shock or disturb the process. For example, a pump installation may benefit from a more gradual stopping sequence to help manage changes in fluid flow.

The appropriate stopping method depends on the machine and process. The deceleration function should not be treated as a substitute for a dedicated braking system where active braking is required.

4. Integrated Bypass Function

The ATS01N244Q includes an integrated bypass function. Once the starting process is complete, the bypass arrangement allows the motor to operate without the same continuous power losses associated with the starting control elements.

This can help reduce heat generation during normal running and support a more compact installation.

The bypass function does not eliminate the need for correct protection, wiring, and installation practices.

5. Motor Control Inputs and Relay Outputs

The starter provides 24 V discrete control inputs, including LI1, LI2, and BOOST. These inputs support basic operating commands and the configured boost function.

Relay outputs R1A and R1C can provide status information to external control equipment. They may be used in a control circuit involving a PLC, indicator, or other compatible device.

The input logic, relay ratings, and terminal wiring must be checked against the manufacturer’s instructions before integration.

Role in Industrial Control Systems

The ATS01N244Q can serve as the motor-starting component in a broader industrial automation system. It is typically installed in a motor control cabinet and connected between the electrical supply and the motor.

Its operation can be coordinated with PLCs, sensors, contactors, protective devices, and operator interfaces.

PLC Integration

A programmable logic controller can manage the operating sequence of the soft starter through its discrete control inputs. For example, the PLC may issue a start command when all machine interlocks are satisfied and monitor a relay output to determine whether the starter has reached a particular operating state.

This arrangement allows motor startup to be coordinated with other machine operations.

Before connecting the starter to a PLC, engineers should verify the control input voltage, signal logic, relay contact ratings, and required isolation arrangements.

HMI and Operator Control

An HMI can provide operators with start and stop commands, operating status, and process information through the PLC or an appropriate control circuit.

The ATS01N244Q is designed for relatively simple starting applications. It does not provide the extensive parameter monitoring and network communication capabilities associated with more advanced motor-control equipment.

The overall HMI functionality therefore depends on the wider automation architecture.

Motor Protection Coordination

A soft starter is only one part of a complete motor control and protection arrangement. Circuit breakers, fuses, overload protection, contactors, and emergency-stop circuits may be required according to the application and applicable electrical standards.

The protection design should consider the motor’s rated current, starting current, duty cycle, and the manufacturer’s coordination recommendations.

Industrial Applications

The ATS01N244Q is designed for simple industrial machinery using three-phase asynchronous motors. Its 44 A starter rating and 22 kW motor rating at 400 V make it suitable for applications that fall within its specified operating limits.

1. Industrial Pump Systems

Pumps often experience mechanical and hydraulic stress during startup. A sudden increase in motor speed can create rapid changes in fluid flow and pressure.

The ATS01N244Q can provide gradual motor acceleration, helping reduce the effects of abrupt starting in compatible pump systems.

Its adjustable deceleration function may also be useful where a controlled stopping sequence is required.

2. Industrial Fans and Blowers

Fans and blowers are commonly driven by asynchronous motors. Direct-on-line starting can create a high initial current and sudden mechanical acceleration.

A soft starter can help manage the startup process and reduce abrupt torque changes. The ATS01N244Q may be used in suitable fan applications when the motor current and starting requirements remain within its ratings.

3. Conveyor Systems

Conveyors used in manufacturing, packaging, and material handling may require controlled motor acceleration.

A soft starter can reduce sudden mechanical loading on belts, couplings, and transmission components. It may also help prevent products from shifting during startup.

However, where continuous conveyor speed adjustment is required, a variable frequency drive may be more appropriate.

4. Compressors

Some industrial compressor installations use asynchronous motors that require controlled starting. A soft starter can help manage the electrical and mechanical conditions during motor acceleration.

The suitability of the ATS01N244Q depends on the compressor design, unloading arrangement, starting frequency, and motor load during startup.

5. General Industrial Machinery

The ATS01N244Q can be considered for compatible machinery such as mixers, mechanical drives, and auxiliary process equipment.

Before selecting the unit, engineers should confirm that the machine does not require continuous variable-speed control, advanced torque regulation, or specialized braking functions that are outside the starter’s capabilities.

Installation and System Integration

Correct installation is essential for safe operation and reliable motor starting.

1. Verify Supply Voltage and Motor Ratings

The ATS01N244Q is designed for a 400 V AC three-phase supply, with a specified supply range of 340–440 V.

Before installation, verify the motor’s rated voltage, rated current, power, and starting characteristics. The motor power rating should not be used as the only selection criterion.

The starter’s 44 A rating and the motor’s actual operating current must be considered together with the required duty cycle and starting conditions.

2. Confirm Mounting and Ventilation

The supplied dimensions are 146 × 180 × 126 mm, and the supplied weight is 2.4 kg.

The device uses a heat-sink construction and requires suitable ventilation. Install it in the recommended orientation and provide the manufacturer’s specified clearance around the equipment.

Avoid placing heat-generating components too close to the starter. Excessive cabinet temperature can affect reliability and reduce the available operating margin.

3. Power and Control Wiring

Power wiring should be sized according to the motor current, installation method, and applicable electrical standards.

Control wiring should be routed appropriately to reduce interference from power conductors. Verify the LI1, LI2, and BOOST input connections and the R1A/R1C relay output arrangement before energizing the system.

Proper grounding and protective-device coordination are also essential.

4. Configure Starting and Deceleration Times

Set the starting time according to the motor and load characteristics. An excessively short ramp may result in high starting current or abrupt acceleration, while an unnecessarily long ramp may cause prolonged motor heating.

The deceleration setting should be selected according to the mechanical and process requirements.

Perform controlled tests during commissioning to confirm that the motor accelerates and stops as intended.

5. Verify Integrated Bypass Operation

The ATS01N244Q includes an integrated bypass function. During commissioning, verify that the starter completes its starting sequence and transfers to normal running operation as expected.

Check the motor current, cabinet temperature, and operating status under representative load conditions.

6. Coordinate Protection Devices

Select upstream protective devices and motor overload protection according to the manufacturer’s recommendations and applicable electrical standards.

A soft starter should not be treated as a complete replacement for all motor protection equipment. The installation must include the protection and isolation measures required by the machine design.

Compatible System Components

The ATS01N244Q is generally installed as part of a complete motor-control arrangement.

The components listed above are examples of equipment used in a motor-control system. They are not necessarily supplied with the ATS01N244Q.

Alternative Models and Replacement Considerations

The ATS01N244Q has been discontinued by Schneider Electric. The manufacturer’s product information indicates that it has no direct replacement assigned to the same reference.

For replacement projects, engineers should evaluate the required motor rating, supply voltage, starting current, operating cycle, and control functions.

Before approving a replacement, compare:

• Rated supply voltage and number of phases.
• Starter current rating.
• Motor power at the actual supply voltage.
• Starting and stopping requirements.
• Starting frequency and duty cycle.
• Integrated bypass arrangement.
• Control input voltage and signal logic.
• Relay output ratings and functions.
• Mounting dimensions and ventilation requirements.
• Upstream protective-device coordination.

A replacement should not be selected solely because its rated current or motor power appears similar. Different starter families may use different control arrangements and installation requirements.

Key Advantages

Controlled Motor Starting

The voltage-ramp starting method provides gradual motor acceleration and can reduce the effects of direct-on-line starting.

Adjustable Starting Time

The starting time can be adjusted from 1 to 25 seconds, allowing the acceleration process to be adapted to the motor and load.

Controlled Deceleration

The adjustable deceleration function supports applications that benefit from a more gradual stopping sequence.

Integrated Bypass

The integrated bypass function supports normal running operation after the startup process and helps reduce power losses in the starting components.

Basic PLC Integration

The 24 V discrete inputs and relay outputs allow the starter to be incorporated into suitable machine-control circuits.

Industrial Motor Compatibility

The 44 A rating and 22 kW motor rating at 400 V support selected three-phase asynchronous motor applications.

Compact Motor-Starting Solution

The Altistart 01 design provides basic soft-starting functions for simple industrial machinery without requiring a more complex motor-control architecture.

Technical FAQs

1. What is the Schneider ATS01N244Q?

The ATS01N244Q is an Altistart 01 soft starter designed for controlled starting and stopping of three-phase asynchronous motors.

2. What is the rated current of the ATS01N244Q?

Its rated starter current is 44 A.

3. What motor power can it support?

The published motor power rating is 22 kW at 400 V three-phase, equivalent to approximately 25 hp.

4. What supply voltage does this soft starter require?

It is designed for a nominal 400 V AC three-phase supply, with a specified operating supply range of 340–440 V.

5. Does the ATS01N244Q support adjustable starting time?

Yes. Its starting time can be adjusted from 1 to 25 seconds.

6. Does it have a deceleration function?

Yes. The deceleration time can also be adjusted from 1 to 25 seconds.

7. Does this model include an integrated bypass?

Yes. The ATS01N244Q includes an integrated bypass function.

8. Can it be controlled by a PLC?

Yes. Its 24 V discrete inputs and relay outputs can be used in a compatible PLC control circuit. The wiring and signal configuration must follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

9. Is the ATS01N244Q still manufactured?

No. Schneider Electric lists the product as discontinued. Its official product information also indicates that there is no direct replacement assigned to the exact reference.

10. Can a variable frequency drive replace this soft starter?

A variable frequency drive may be used in some applications, but it provides different functionality. A VFD controls motor speed during operation, whereas this soft starter primarily manages starting and stopping. Replacement requires an assessment of the machine’s operating requirements and control architecture.

Procurement and Maintenance Recommendations

The ATS01N244Q is a discontinued industrial motor-control product. Buyers should confirm availability and product condition before placing an order.

When sourcing this model, verify the complete reference number, 400 V AC three-phase rating, 44 A starter current, and 22 kW motor rating. Check the terminal condition, housing, heat-sink surfaces, and visible signs of overheating or physical damage.

For used or refurbished equipment, request clear product photographs and available functional-test information. Confirm whether the unit has been tested under suitable operating conditions and clarify the warranty and return policy.

During maintenance, keep the heat-sink area clean and maintain adequate ventilation inside the control cabinet. Inspect power terminals, control connections, grounding, and protective devices according to the equipment maintenance schedule.

If the starter is replaced, document the original wiring, starting time, deceleration time, and control logic before removing the old unit. After installation, verify motor current, acceleration performance, bypass operation, and stopping behavior under representative load conditions.

Conclusion

The Schneider Electric ATS01N244Q Altistart 01 Soft Starter is designed for controlled starting and stopping of three-phase asynchronous motors. With a 400 V AC supply rating, 44 A starter current, and 22 kW motor rating, it supports selected industrial motor applications that require voltage-ramp starting rather than continuous variable-speed control.

Its adjustable starting and deceleration times, integrated bypass, 24 V control inputs, and relay outputs make it suitable for basic motor-control systems. Because the model has been discontinued, accurate identification and careful evaluation of replacement options are essential for maintenance and procurement.