Microprocessor-based solid-state digital protection relays now emulate the original devices, as well as providing types of protection and supervision impractical with electromechanical relays.OverviewIn, a protective relay is a device designed to trip a when a is detected. The first protective relays were electromagnetic devices, relying on coils operating on moving par. Electromechanical protective relays operate by either, or. Unlike switching type electromechanical with fixed and usually ill-defined operating voltage thresholds.