Kohler KCS Series ATS

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Kohler KCS Series amperage range?

Per Kohler TP-6833, the KCS/KCP/KCC family is published 30 to 4000 amperes. The KCS portion specifically covers 30-230 amperes; Kohler's lineup continues with the KCP Series (also through 230A but with different breaker compatibility) and the KCC Series for the higher amperages up to 4000A. The KCS/KCP/KCC family share controllers and largely the same chassis architecture, scaled to amperage.

What is the difference between KCS, KCP, and KCC?

All three are open-transition transfer switches sharing the same controller family (MPAC 1200/1500). KCS is the standard any-breaker-rated chassis. KCP is the standard specific-breaker-rated alternative. KCC is the larger-amperage continuation; Kohler distributors publish KCC frames up to 4000A.

Can the Kohler KCS be used as service-entrance equipment?

Yes. Kohler offers service-entrance variants of the KCS chassis. The model number suffixes encode breaker, enclosure, and pole configuration — confirm the exact suffix for service-entrance against the current Kohler ATS configurator or TP-6833 before specifying.

What controller does the KCS Series use?

The MPAC 1200 (entry-level) or MPAC 1500 (advanced) controller. The 1500 adds programmable I/O, expanded comms (Modbus over RS485), event logging with timestamps, and color-coded fault indication. For BMS integration, spec the MPAC 1500.

Does the Kohler KCS pair only with Kohler gensets?

No. The KCS is OEM-agnostic. It accepts a dry-contact start signal from any genset controller (DSE, ComAp, ASCO, GE Zenith, etc.) and provides standard mains/genset sensing back. That said, when paired with a Kohler genset, the MPAC 1500 controller can speak natively over Kohler's serial protocol, exposing more data to the OnCue monitoring platform.

Can the KCS Series do closed-transition transfer?

No — the KCS Series is open-transition only. For closed-transition (sub-100ms paralleled transfer), Kohler offers separate model series. If your load can't tolerate even brief transfer interruption, look at Kohler's closed-transition lineup or pair the genset with a UPS.

Is the Kohler KCS NFPA 110 compliant?

Yes — the KCS Series with MPAC 1500 is acceptable for NFPA 110 Level 1 emergency systems when properly configured. It supports the required test exerciser, alarm contacts, and event logging. For Level 1 healthcare applications, confirm with the AHJ that the specific configuration meets local interpretations.

Service Specifications

Key Terms

MPAC 1200 vs 1500

MPAC 1200 is the entry-level controller (basic timers, exercise, alarms). MPAC 1500 adds programmable I/O, Modbus, color status indication, and detailed event log.

Any-breaker rated vs specific-breaker rated

Any-breaker-rated (KCS) accepts circuit-breaker compatibility from multiple manufacturers. Specific-breaker-rated (KCP/KSSB) is engineered to pair with one circuit-breaker family — typically lower cost, less flexibility.