Question 1

What type of generator docking station do I need?

Accepted Answer

The right configuration depends on your facility. Temporary generator only: Basic Temporary Inlet. Permanent and temporary generators: Dual Generator Docking Station or Isolated Dual Docking Station. Load bank testing: Isolated Load Bank, Permanent Load Dump, Dual Purpose Docking Station, Paired Distribution Hub, or Interlocked Hub. Service disconnect required: Service Entrance Docking Station.

Question 2

What is a generator docking station?

Accepted Answer

A generator docking station is a UL 891 switchboard providing a safe, code-compliant connection point for portable or temporary generators to feed a building's electrical system. Docking stations include isolation breakers, interlocks, and cam-type connections for quick generator hookup during outages, maintenance, or testing.

Question 3

What is the difference between a single purpose and dual purpose docking station?

Accepted Answer

A single purpose docking station serves one function, such as connecting a temporary generator to building loads or a generator to a load bank. A dual purpose docking station combines both in one unit, with interlocks allowing the operator to switch between temporary generator feed or load bank testing, but never both simultaneously.

Question 4

What is a Kirk key interlock on a generator docking station?

Accepted Answer

A Kirk key interlock is a mechanical key sequence preventing unsafe breaker combinations. The key exchange ensures only one power path is active at a time. For example, opening the generator-to-building path releases the key to close either the load bank breaker or the temporary generator isolation breaker, but not both.

Question 5

What is the difference between an interlocked hub and a paired distribution hub?

Accepted Answer

Both support permanent generators, temporary generators, and load bank connections. A Paired Distribution Hub places the permanent generator and load bank on one side and the temporary generator and building load on the other, minimizing copper runs. An Interlocked Hub uses a three-way key exchange where the permanent generator feeds either the building or load bank, with a temporary generator inlet also provided.