The CBS ArcSafe RSK-CS01 (often referred to by the legacy name “Chicken Switch”) is a portable, remote switch actuator designed to remotely operate pistol-grip control switches.
Its primary purpose is safety: it allows you to stand outside the Arc Flash Boundary while opening or closing a breaker, protecting you from potential arc flash explosions during the switching operation.
- Function: It physically turns the rotary “pistol-grip” handle on a control panel to the Trip or Close position.
Goal: It allows the operator to stand 30–50 feet away (outside the Arc Flash Boundary) while operating the breaker, preventing injury if the breaker fails during switching.
Zero Modifications: It attaches to the panel using strong magnets. You do not need to drill holes or permanently install brackets on the customer’s gear.
Portable: It is designed to be moved from breaker to breaker. One kit can service an entire substation.
Operation:Â It has a “Deadman” enable button (safety feature) and a simple Trip/Close switch.
Power:
Standard (Wired):Â Uses 16 AA batteries (24V DC).
Wireless (RSK-CS01W):Â Uses Milwaukee M18 rechargeable batteries.
The CS01 model is the most popular because it fits approximately 90% of the pistol-grip switches in the field. It is compatible with:
Electroswitch:Â Series 24 and 24P
General Electric:Â SB-1, SB-9, SB-10, SBM
Westinghouse:Â Type W
Shallco:Â Series 26
