I have a kinda dumb question, but keep in mind I'm still a student... and EE, not EC.

#1. What is the deal with siemens/murray? I've recently seen a siemens 100A main lug panel, and the same, but Murray. I thought they were the same company. Why use different names on the same panel? Is one better than the other? made different places? or do they draw it out of a hat?

#2. Which, in your opinion or experience, is a better brand of panels/breakers? GE, Siemens/Murray, or Square D? I am having my service redone (hopefully in a month or so), and I would like to specify the type of panel that I want, rather than someone throw in whatever's the cheapest... Although I'm sure anything would be beter than my Zinsco that I have now.

(p.s.) I apologize about my questions because they arent exactly vocational.... the second one might be remotely.