A method for operating a power distributor, having a first controller, and having a plurality of connected connection modules, each having a base resistor, which form a resistor chain connected in series, which chain is supplied by means of a DC source of the first controller and is guided against a reference potential. Each connection module has a supply connector and a bus connector of a common bus system, which is signal-connected to the first controller. The connection modules are equipped with a circuit breaker, each having a second controller for detecting the electrical voltage dropping at the associated base resistor and a switch element operable by the respective second controller, which element is connected between the side of the associated base resistor facing away from the first controller and the reference potential, and which is signal-connected with the associated bus connector and energized by means of the supply connector.