The invention comprises a programmable emergency-stop circuit apparatus and method that provides advanced functions not found in other systems. The circuit centralizes the control of high voltage motor power into one place, by providing connections for, in its minimum configuration, several different kill switches, a motors-on button, and an AC motor power relay coil. In the present invention, kill switches, emergency-stop and motors-on buttons, computer ready and watchdog signals are all conveniently connected in one location, alongside the AC motor power relay coil driver.