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Briggs & Stratton, Cutler-Hammer Enter Emergency Power Transfer System Market        

23 February 2000

Briggs & Stratton, Cutler-Hammer Enter Emergency Power Transfer System Market        

    MILWAUKEE, Feb. 23 -- Briggs & Stratton and
Cutler-Hammer have teamed up to offer the market's newest emergency power
transfer system.
    (Photo:  http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20000223/MNWPAK2-a
             http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20000223/MNWPAK2-b )
    The system allows fast, reliable use of portable generators by connecting
the generator to the home's electrical system through the transfer switch.
Co-branded by the two companies, this system was designed from the ground up
for convenience and appearance. It is UL Listed and meets National Electrical
Code(R) and local electrical codes when properly installed by a professional
electrician.
    "Our emergency power transfer system is easy to operate and provides the
highest degree of reliability and protection," said George Thompson,
spokesperson for Briggs & Stratton. "It operates by simply plugging your
generator into the outdoor power inlet box, starting the generator and then
transferring power from utility to generator using the transfer switch."
    Installing a permanent transfer system allows the homeowner to choose
which circuits will receive power; eliminates the hazard of using extension
cords, usually through open windows and doors; and prevents dangerous power
backfeed through utility lines.
    More frequent power outages due to severe weather patterns, energy
deregulation and increased demand have fueled homeowners' interest in
obtaining backup power systems. Annual sales of one million portable
generators are expected over the next few years.
    Briggs & Stratton is the leading manufacturer of engines that power
generators and other outdoor power equipment, and Cutler-Hammer, a division of
Eaton Corporation, is a leader in power distribution equipment and electrical
control products. For more information on portable generators and power
transfer systems, visit the Briggs & Stratton Website at
http://www.briggsandstratton.com or Cutler-Hammer's Website at
http://www.ch.cutler-hammer.com