Comparison Between the New and Old Air-Switch Type Street Lighting Distribution Boxes

Shenzhen Greenway Electronic Co., Ltd. currently manufactures two models of street lighting distribution boxes: the M695, which uses ceramic‑tube fuses, and the M696, which uses miniature circuit breakers (MCBs). Compared with similar products on the market, both models feature a more modern appearance. In particular, their narrower width gives them better compatibility for installation in various streetlight poles.

For the M696 air‑switch type distribution box, only two MCBs are installed inside. In traditional air‑switch type distribution boxes, however, two MCBs are installed alongside two DIN‑rail SPDs positioned in parallel. This configuration makes the traditional distribution box significantly wider than our M696 model.

This leads to a common question: If the traditional distribution box is wide because it houses two DIN‑rail SPDs for lightning protection, can our narrower M696 distribution box also accommodate an SPD and provide lightning‑protection capability?

The answer is yes, absolutely. When designing the M696, we intentionally avoided using traditional DIN‑rail SPDs. Instead, we designed the box to use our M999 dedicated SPD specifically developed for street lighting distribution boxes. The installation position is different from the traditional approach—the M999 SPD is mounted above the municipal power cable—while the overall height of the distribution box remains comparable to traditional models.

This brings up another question: Why did Greenway Electronic avoid using DIN‑rail SPDs and choose a dedicated SPD instead?

The answer is simple: cost optimization for our customers.

In traditional street lighting distribution boxes, the DIN‑rail SPD uses shield‑type internal components. The cost difference between the 10kV and 20kV versions is minimal, so manufacturers typically default to the 20kV version. Using two 20kV DIN‑rail SPDs significantly increases the total cost compared with a single 20kV M999 dedicated SPD. Even better, our M999 SPDs can also be manufactured in a 10kV version, offering even lower cost while maintaining effective protection.

However, all of this assumes that the DIN‑rail SPD manufacturer is producing products that meet their advertised surge ratings. In reality, some suppliers claim to offer 10kV or 20kV SPDs but use components rated only 8000V or 6000V—and in extreme cases, even 2000V components. This is highly dangerous and leaves serious safety risks! Such low‑cost, substandard SPDs will of course be cheaper than our M999 SPDs, which are produced honestly and according to real electrical specifications.

As a leader in safe surge‑protection technology, Shenzhen Greenway Electronic manufactures the M999 dedicated SPD for street lighting distribution boxes. The M999 series has obtained certifications from TÜV (Germany), UKCA (United Kingdom), ETL (United States), and CQC (China). While ensuring exceptional quality, we provide customers with highly cost‑effective waterproof and surge‑protection solutions for complete outdoor electrical systems.