# Genset controller

Canonical URL: https://eloragrid.ai/symbols/genset-controller
Publisher: Elora Grid
Updated: 2026-10-28
Lookup label: GC
Drawing use: SLD, Schematic
Reference families: IEC, IEEE / ANSI

The device controller that starts, protects and synchronises a generating set and controls its breaker.

## In plain English

### What does Genset controller mean?

A genset controller starts and stops the engine, monitors engine sensors, provides generator protection functions and, in paralleling versions, synchronises the set and shares load with other sources. Automatic mains failure versions also monitor the utility supply and control the changeover.

### A simple example

Single-line diagrams draw it as a block beside the generator with measurement inputs from generator CTs and VTs, a breaker close and trip connection and a communication link to the microgrid or power management controller. The protection functions it provides are often listed by device number.

### What the drawings help you do

The block does not tell you whether it provides certified utility interface protection or only generator protection. It also does not show the governor and regulator interface, which may be analogue, digital or a communication link to the engine control unit.

### This particular reference

The device controller that starts, protects and synchronises a generating set and controls its breaker. A genset controller handles one set; a microgrid controller coordinates many sources.

### Terms

- Terminal: An identified point where a conductor connects.
- Signal: Electrical information passed between devices, rather than necessarily the main power supply.
- Schematic: A drawing showing function and connections rather than physical appearance.

Concept diagram: Identify the device and form → Read the connections and state → Check the equipment reference
A guide to reading this reference. The original symbol illustration and its drawing notes appear below; these boxes are not a wiring diagram.

- [Single genset controllers for backup power](https://www.deif.com/products/controllers/engine-and-single-genset-controllers/)
- [iE 250 controller documentation](https://www.deif.com/documentation/ie-250)


## What it represents

A genset controller starts and stops the engine, monitors engine sensors, provides generator protection functions and, in paralleling versions, synchronises the set and shares load with other sources. Automatic mains failure versions also monitor the utility supply and control the changeover.
Single-line diagrams draw it as a block beside the generator with measurement inputs from generator CTs and VTs, a breaker close and trip connection and a communication link to the microgrid or power management controller. The protection functions it provides are often listed by device number.
The block does not tell you whether it provides certified utility interface protection or only generator protection. It also does not show the governor and regulator interface, which may be analogue, digital or a communication link to the engine control unit.

## How to read it

- Read the listed protection functions; they may not include interface protection.
- Check breaker control and synchronising connections.

## Information to show or reference

- List protection and control functions.
- Show measurement and breaker connections.
- Reference governor and regulator interface.

## Important distinction

A genset controller handles one set; a microgrid controller coordinates many sources.

## Facts

- Functions: Start, protect, synchronise, share load
- Inputs: Generator CTs and VTs, engine sensors
- Outputs: Breaker control, governor and AVR commands
- Preview: Independent educational illustration; consult the applicable standard and project legend for the exact graphic

## Public references

- [Single genset controllers for backup power](https://www.deif.com/products/controllers/engine-and-single-genset-controllers/) — DEIF. Public single genset controller page describing start, stop and protection functions.
- [iE 250 controller documentation](https://www.deif.com/documentation/ie-250) — DEIF. Public controller documentation.

## Graphic scope

Independent original educational concept illustration by Elora Grid. Not a certified standards graphic or manufacturer footprint. Unitless; not to scale. Original artwork licence: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/. Publisher material is linked only.