To comment on the first question:
The thing I deal with everyday is the use of IEC starters and the MSP (motor starter protector).
The reason I bring this up, the MSP does not meet UL 489. Which means that it cannot be used as a stand alone SSPD (short circuit protective device.) In Europe, it is recognized as such. It's really confusing.
It can be used in the context of NEC 430-53c which is group motor rating. However, I get at least 10 calls a week on use of this within a motor control circuit.
I came to the realization, that the cost of these devices ($19.00 - $120.00) makes them such a commodity...that I will be seeing more and more of them in place of NEMA devices.
It's not a bad thing, if used correctly.
IMHO,
Carl
