Please explain the difference between Protector and Controller.
Protector
It is mainly used for safety in heaters and motors. As it is also called “for over-heating prevention”, it is a safety device which turns the power off when the temperature reaches a dangerous level due to heater runaway.
The differential is large and even a short operational life is considered to be adequate. Because of its simple structure, it can be manufactured at a low cost.
Controller
This is a thermostat to maintain the temperature at a certain level, and a representative product in this category is the electronic thermostat.
Features such as a small temperature difference (differential) at ON/OFF, high accuracy, a long, etc. are required. Because of these requirements, prices are relatively high.
The controller's role is to maintain a certain temperature level, and in the case that this temperature maintaining function is destroyed, the protector will cut off the power line as a last defensive resort.