Performance of microkernel vs monolithic kernel. As is always the answer (or at least the preface) to performance-related questions: know your problem domain, run comparative benchmarks, and remember what premature optimization is.
A summary of the difference between contactors, motor starters, relays and circuit breakers. Switches, circuit breakers, and contactors are used to control what parts of an electrical system are energized or de-energized. Fuses are used to protect the electrical system when something goes wrong, and can isolate the faulted parts from the normal parts.
In rare cases, the breaker may be damaged and need replacing. But in most cases, the breaker or fuse is just doing its job when it pops. Circuit breakers are designed to trip (fuses in your fuse box are designed to blow) and turn off power when any of the following dangerous situations occur. Continue to 2 of 4 below.