Variable Speed Drives and Soft Starters
Discover a complete range of fully tested, ready-to-connect automation products from Schneider Electric, including Altivar variable speed drives and a full line of soft starters. Engineered for reliability, efficiency and smooth integration, these solutions help you reduce downtime, improve process control and save energy.
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- Spend $3,000 or more on Schneider Drives or Soft Starters, and receive a $200 gift card
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*Offer valid on invoiced orders of eligible products. Gift cards are emailed within 14 days after invoice.
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Variable Speed Drives
Soft Starters
FAQs
An Altivar Variable Speed Drive (VSD/VFD) continuously varies frequency and voltage to control speed and torque for process control and energy optimization. A Soft Starter (Altistart/ATS) ramps the motor up/down to limit inrush current and mechanical stress; it does not provide continuous speed control.
Choose a Drive when you need variable speed, energy savings on variable-torque loads (fans/pumps), or advanced diagnostics/connectivity. Choose a Soft Starter when the motor runs at fixed speed and you only need smooth start/stop and reduced electrical/mechanical stress.
- OEM/Machines (conveyors, packaging, handling) → Altivar 12 / Altivar 320
- Process & utilities (pumps/fans, W&WWW) → Altivar Process 630
- High-performance process/hoisting → Altivar Process 930
- Fixed-speed start/stop → ATS22 (established), ATS430 (standard machines), ATS480 (process & infrastructure), ATS490 (advanced functions)
- Motor type & power (async vs. sync; kW/hp) — e.g., ATV320 handles both async/sync; ATV12 targets small async machines.
- Supply voltage/phase & environment — e.g., ATV630 offers multiple IP options (IP20/21/55) depending on power; ATV320 variants cover cabinet/IP66.
- Duty (normal vs. heavy) & starting method — soft starters specify normal/heavy-duty currents (e.g., ATS480 range), and drives specify ND/HD ratings.
- Integration/Comms — e.g., ATV630/930 include Ethernet/Modbus, ATV320 offers a wide choice of fieldbus options; ATS490 provides native Ethernet.
Yes. ATV630/930 include Ethernet/Modbus; ATV320 supports multiple fieldbuses; ATS480 accepts Ethernet/IP & Modbus TCP modules; ATS490 has native Ethernet.
ATV320 provides coated PCBs and can operate in harsh conditions up to 60 °C (conditions apply). ATV630 offers enclosure/IP variants for plant rooms or cabinets.
Yes — the EcoStruxure™ Motor Control Configurator (online) helps you design a compliant motor control solution in minutes.