Typically the network protector is set to close when the voltage difference and phase angle are such that the transformer will supply power to the secondary grid, and is set to open when the secondary grid would back-feed through the transformer and supply power to the primary circuit. Network protectors typically have three settings, "automatic", "open", and "close". The top side is fed from multiple protectors and is always energized unless all units on a spot network are in the open pos.