Types of Power Cords: Discover Their Different Classifications, Standards and Adaptors

What is a Power Cord?

Power cords, usually referred to as line cords, or power cables, serve as a transit point between electronic equipment and electrical supply by transporting electrical current. Most power cords contain copper wire inside insulating material with a non-contact plastic coating for protection.

These cord sets utilize international compatible plugs and connectors. They are either classified as power cords with one end with a plug and the other end with bare wires or connector cords with one end with a connector and the other end with wires.

The National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA) specifies criteria for electrical plugs design and manufacture, for example, voltage ratings and the design of sockets. There are a total of 15 types of plugs throughout the world, from A through O.

There are many adapters available from electrical supply stores to make things work between distinct plug types in regions of the world. In the U.S. Types A and B are common plugs.

Generally, a power cord contains three major components: the plug, the receptacle (socket) and the cord. Some high priority power cords have locking action of the plug into receptacle to avoid inadvertent disconnections, which is critical for medical equipment and high impact applications.

Power cords are classified, not by type, but by their voltage or kilovolt-capacity, which indicates how much power a particular cord is capable of carrying. The rating of the power cord depends on the wires, plugs and connectors.

The overall rating is determined by the rating of the lowest rated component of the cord set. The plug also has an important distinction because it restricts where the cord set is meant to be used and the country of manufacture.

The power best capacity of a power cord depends on wire gauge and cord length. The wire gauge is related to the diameter/thickness of wire that carries electrical current and the amount of heat it develops. Likewise, a longer cord has a greater voltage drop—a drop in the measured voltage from the connector to the end of the cord.

The gauge rating is simply a number rating standardized with the American Wire Gauge (AWG) numbering system. For example, say the power cord is a 12 AWG 120-volt cord; therefore, it has 12 gauge wire for use with a 120-volt outlet. A lower number indicates a heavier gauge of wire in the AWG system.

An increase in the cord length will result in increased voltage drop afting disipation of power from the connector to the far end of the cable. The voltage levels are stable to a shorter power cord from the outlet to the cord’s end.

In an extremely long power cord/situation (i.e. more than fifty (50) feet), it is necessary to add heavier rated American Gauge Wire (AWG) denoting a cord capable of managing an increase in resistance (i.e. with less percent of voltage drop).

The History of the Power Cord

In 1882, Thomas Edison fabricated a power distribution system by insulating a copper rod with jute, a soft, shiny plant fiber. The jute-wrapped copper rod was placed in a pipe coated with a coating made of a bituminous compound because it was part of his project to electrify New York City.

Even though vulcanized rubber was developed in 1844, it was not used in electrical wiring until 1880.

Rubber-coated cords were used standard until about the 1930’s, when metal-sheathed cable (“armored cable”) was available in the US and found its way to the consumer market and was used until about the 1950’s because it was very durable, albeit expensive.

Metal-sheathed cable has been virtually replaced by 2-wire, PVC insulated cables. Current types of cords are virtually all PVC-coated because of their ability to withstand heat and other difficult use. PVC has been an effective and reliable option for cord manufacturing.

What are the different types of power cords?

Familiarity with the variety of power cords is advantageous for anyone working with electrical systems, electronics, or anything requiring a reliable connection to an outlet.

Power cords are unique compared to other types of equipment as the variety of power cords cannot use a single standard to classify the different types of power cords across regions. Instead, each region of the world determines its variation of power cords by its classification of electrical codes and/or infrastructure.

Power cord compatibility is among the most important factors in choosing the correct power cord for industrial or residential use since the electrical outlets, voltages, frequencies, and plug shapes can differ substantially from one region to the next.

Power cord and plug type knowledge also assists companies, active tourists, and equipment manufacturers in choosing power cords that will satisfy compliance and certification of safety and performance according to the specific country each power cord will be utilized in.

In fact, any individual who travels internationally with a device, whether a laptop, smartphone, gaming system, or tablet will quickly learn the differences in power cord and power plug type variations as each country and/or region will have its own variations of plug and power supply.

There are 14 distinct plug types throughout the world designated as Type A to Type N. Standards for electrical plugs and connectors globally have been established by organizations such as International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC), National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA), and the International Commission on Rules for the Approval of Electrical Equipment (CEE) to set specifications for a type of male and female connectors, voltage ratings, safety ratings, and design validation so that power users can ensure the safest and most compatible power for these varying power environments.

It is important to be knowledgeable of the various world standards when choosing a power cord for international travel, industrial applications, data center operations or for specialized electronic equipment use instead of comparing specs that would be acceptable on North American standards.

#1. AC Power Cords.

AC mains supply cords are the most widely used electric cable type used to supply alternating current electricity from electricity supply mains to electrical equipment or electrical appliances.

These cords are designed for voltage levels typical to most applications – such as in electrical power-hands or tools, lighting fixture or electrical lamps, HVAC equipment, computers, consumer electronics, home or kitchen electrical appliances, musical instruments, and shop / workshop equipment.

AC mains supply cords are basically a cable assembly with internal wires made from copper or aluminum, conducting core wires insulated by polymer or rubber insulating tubing or sheath, and a molded plug that is made with prongs, casings, wire terminals, and safety fuse elements.

In addition, voltage and current ratings, wire gauge, flat or round shaped wires, cord length, materials of insulations, and varieties of plugs are all standardized for the various types; e.g., the cord connects to the powered device, and the plug connects to a wall outlet or power distribution unit (PDU) system in an industrial or data center location.

Furthermore, since electrical systems around the world are either 100V, 110V, 120V, 220V, and 240V with either 50Hz or 60Hz frequency, with their associated connectors and cord designs gramically, every local standard must be reciprocally counter evidence.

AC power cord plug types are effectively classified into an international type system Type ‘A’ to Type ‘O’ locally they are also variations of several plug types universally, e.g., source cords for global use – the coding specifications is a key consideration to ensure the required power access standards are met for product equipment use.

Most modern AC power cords are built with grounding (or earth) and polarization; ground or earthed cords reduce the risk of electric shock, and are specifically in use of high current or watts; polarization is to allow a close circuit connection to the circuits neutral ground.

Furthermore, this applies also to comply with safety certification or ‘marking’ e.g., UL, CSA, VDE, CE etc.; if sensitive computing equipment, laboratory equipment, or health care or enhanced capability devices are being similarly purchased or being power sourced make sure the purchase is a registered safety certification.

#2. NEMA Power Cords.

NEMA power cords establish the standard for North American electrical plugs, power voltage ratings, and receptacle style. The most common NEMA plugs – Type A (2-prong) and Type B (3-prong with ground) – are found in homes and businesses across the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

Although the Type A plug has slowly been replaced predominantly by Type B with a ground, there are  variations across the globe, many devices still support both for backward compatibility.

Other international standards for IEC C13 or C19 connectors, for example are frequently seen in IT and data center installations.

Devices built to NEMA codes are typically made as one wire or two wire systems where the extra wire is a ground like a 3 prong configuration, this provides additional safety and surge protection.

When choosing electrical connectors, think about the following variables: intended use (industrial equipment, portable tools, household use), connector configuration, anticipated energy load (amperes and watts), and special needs for energy delivery.

NEMA standards are for North America only, for international travel, travelers will require plug adapters; and will possibly require voltage converters, to use in compatibility internationally.

NEMA connectors are further categorized into straight blade and locking.  Straight blade connectors are most commonly found in consumer electronics and appliances, and utilize metal prongs or blades (flat or folded) with a ground pin that is rounded for safety.

Locking connectors are used in commercial and industrial facilities, and utilize curved blades and twist locking to hold the solid plug firmly in place preventing loss of power or electrical disruptions. This is critical for a commercial or industrial environment and for heavy-duty extension cords.

NEMA non-locking and straight connectors are classified into 25 separate sub-types, while locking connectors are classified into 24 sub-types.

Every sub-type has a unique specification code associated with it such as NEMA 5-15P, and NEMA L14-30P indicating the different power capacities; distinguishing features for ground; and helpful hints specifying the intended use -now making it easy for facility managers and buyers to find the right matching cords or devices as replacements.

#3. NEMA 5 15p Power Cords.

NEMA power cord products come in ranges from 15 thru 60 amps and 125 thru 600 volts. NEMA products are classified by a specific classification. For example, NEMA 1 have a two-prong non-grounded connection or NEMA 5 which has a three-prong grounded connection.

NEMA 5 cords are often used with typical residential and office electrical outlets, but they are rated for 125 volts. The NEMA 5-15 rating means it is a “grounded” version of a NEMA 1-15 device and is most widely used to power computers, small kitchen appliances, and any number of portable electronic equipment.

Higher numbered NEMA classifications (NEMA 6 and above) are often used with heavy industrial machinery, air conditioning units, or large household appliances which need higher current and voltage ratings. 

While all NEMA 5 15P power cords consist of three prongs, some ends are configured differently than others. For example, there are low-profile right-angle plugs for behind furniture applications, where the cord head can turn sideways and sit flush to the wall without bending.

Others have a regular straight plug which can be plugged directly into an outlet. Also, there are some NEMA power cords with multiple outlets and/or built-in surge protection, allowing the user to deliver a single power source to a number of devices (through a power strip perhaps) and/or provide protection to other sensitive electronics.

To maintain safety and compliance, always match the NEMA power cord’s amperage, voltage, and plug type with that of the outlet and device that you are using it with. Manufacturers will typically denote the correct NEMA code on both the cord and plug for convenience.

#4. Generator Power Cords

Generator power cords are intended to carry power from portable or standby generators to home backup systems, recreational vehicles (RVs), tools at a job site, or emergency equipment. These cords are available in amp ratings from between 15 to 50 amps, and voltage ratings of either 120V or 240V, wire gauge, and connector types.

The main types of generator plugs include NEMA 5, L5, L14, 14, TT, and CS series plugs and this corresponds to the label on generator receptacles. The L14-30P is a twist-lock, 30-amp power plug that connects you to the generator, keeping the connection safe when safety may concern anything to do with accidental disconnect.

To purchase a generator power cords you should know the wattage output of the generator, how many amps your appliances or tools draw, along with the distance to deploy; higher amp generator cords feature heavier and thicker insulation that will carry more electrical current, raise performance and lower possible overheating.

Generator cords must also match the outlet type of the generator and the plug configuration, along with the voltage rating.

If you want one generating cord to reach all the way to the appliance or tool you should always use the proper gauge of cord (thickness of wire) to minimize any type of voltage drop and loss of electrical efficiency; using a long or undersized cord will limit the amount of electricity available to whatever devices you are using.

Generator power cords come in many plug types, 3-pronged plugs are for 120-volt system, while 4-pronged plugs support 120V and 240V.

Because many homes and workplace common have 240V receptacles, 4-prong often have generator cords to connect to devices needing more demands like air conditioners, sump pumps, or heavy construction equipment.

Always use cords rated for higher wattage than the load and always check any and all safety certifications include from your manufactured reliable power distribution.

If you are a person that wants a backup power solution, or a portable generator always check on the manufacturer for weather-resistant and outdoor-rated generator cords with locking terms, or tones of products with ergonomic handles for use safety in trying environments.

#5. Power Supply Power Cords

A power supply cable is also known as an electrical cord or electric cord and is the most crucial part of an electrical-powered device that connects it to the conductive source of energy.

Power supply cables are found in any lighting and sound device, powered tool or powered appliance (small and large), servers, and medical or laboratory devices or equipment.

Power supply cables use rubber or high-performance polymers to insulate them from injuries or damage, utilize copper or aluminum conductors; have detachable power supply cables for convenience, or fixed installations for a guarantee of safety.

Power supply cables can be obtained or manufactured with a flat cord or either rounded, coiled, or retractable. This is especially when mobility can be integrated and helps to store in a compact area’s worth noting on a site where effective cable management is in the implementation stage.

Power supply cables are available in various lengths. Short cords are appropriate for close-quarter installations. Longer cables provide flexibility when determining distance and locations.

Each length of the cables, as well as each gauge of wire width, have a substantial role in completing electrical tasks with the very little voltage lost, and confirming the safety of the user.

An element of measurement that is sometimes ignored is the amperage rating of a power supply cable, which is usually defined in wire gauge sizes between 18 and 10, being 14 gauge widely used. The gauge and insulation are going to dictate the specific maximum amount of current the cable is able to carry without compromising the heating or wasting energy.

As well, it is important to note that the voltage rating is based on the local electrical grid, where in North America a voltage supply is defined as either 110V or 120V, or other countries using a source of a voltage that might range anywhere from 220V to 240V.

When sourcing power cords with a specific application when possible check to ensure safety compliance to regulated industry or multinational applications consider cords in which have the necessary certifications (ie. UL, CSA, VDE), and ensure certifications and technical rating checklists, and ensure best practices when sourcing appropriate devices for outlets.

When sourcing replacement power supply cables either in the home or in a commercial space best practices would include checking for compatibility with the connector on the device, sufficient support for the intended voltage and current, and adding features for safety (ie. surge suppression, fuse protection, and weatherproof insulation for outdoor use).

#6. Cord Sets

Cord sets are manufactured electrical connectors that are designed to conduct electrical energy safely and reliably from a power receptacle in a wall (herein referred to as a “socket”) to an electrical device or appliance. Cord sets are comprised of conductors (typically copper or copper alloy wire), much tougher insulation, and an outer jacket for protection.

Some cord sets include an electrical fuse that opens to prevent voltage surges, an electrical fault current leak detection device, or electrical monitoring functions to monitor electrical voltage or current—these features/functionalities can be important to laboratories, hospitals and highly sensitive industrial workplaces.

For advanced applications, cord sets may include an electrically shielded cable in order to protect from electromechanical interference (EMI)—as EMI can negatively affect electronic performance and or interfere with communication systems.

The indicating design for cord sets includes a molded plug on one end and a molded Connector that conforms to whichever country it is being sold into on the other end. They are a vital interface that links the main power source to appliances or production activity.

It is also vital to know if the cord set is designed to fit the plug and outlet design requirements of the target country – doing so improperly may lead to not fitting, inefficiently transferring power, to no device recognition at all.

The amperage and voltage ratings must always be checked– to ensure efficient and safe power transfer, and help provide a long operational life for the device being powered.

Cord sets are used in nearly every environment (retail shopping centres and stores, office buildings, manufacturing plants, industrial facilities, laboratories, residences, etc.), and, the majority of cord sets being sold are to be used for AC energy utilization units.

Extension cords are a type of cord set, and act to extend where electricity can be run by lengthening the distance of the reachable electricity, especially when additional outlets may not readily available. They are used in temporary setups, special events, and work enterprise job locations, etc.

In the United States and Canada, the National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA) provides strict manufacturing and quality criteria for cord sets, etc. Plugs, voltage ratings and set receptacles are all covered under NEMA and even equivalent standards are available in other parts of the world (such as the IEC and CEE standards), and users should check the relevant marks when selecting cord sets for several jurisdictions – especially for international or high regulatory environments.

All cord sets must be measured when purchasing by assessing the length to ensure the both the length and voltage drop are accounted for; this helps ensure the right item is acquired for the application needs, but also determine the viability of complying with electrical safety and regulations.

#7. Custom Power Cords

Prior to engaging with a custom power cord manufacturer, it is essential that all technical, physical limitations, and compliance aspects of your application are understood.

Custom power cords are manufactured to support the specific needs of individualized processes, unique equipment, or challenging surroundings. They are often non-NEMA or IEC plugs, and the use of custom connectors, custom cable assemblies, custom safety features.

High performance Custom Power Cords will frequently contain thicker wire gauge because the equipment performs better at high levels of power output, ruggedized insulation because it is used on construction sites or outdoors, heavy-duty or heavy-duty grounding pins because of the safety requirements of industrial applications, or weatherproof or water-resistant plugs because of wet environment applications.

Custom Power Cord manufacturers provide safety features and identification features. Corrosive colors or brightly colored insulation increases visibility makes a tripping hazard visually identifiable, and makes identification of cords easier in a busy environment.

Integrated surge protection is a popular safety feature that protects expensive equipment contingencies from damaging voltage spikes and short circuits.

There are industry-specific features, like locking for healthcare cords or for laboratory cords, oil resistant jackets for manufacturing plants, or coiled designs for decks with limited space to ensure the power cord matches the user’s requirements.

If you are sourcing cords for a complex production line, specialized test chambers, marine equipment, aviation equipment, or consumer electronics, partner with a reputable manufacturer that guarantees compliance and optimizes performance in the long term.

Complete engineering design consultations guarantee the length, amperage, flexibility, durability, and number of connectors and number/type of connectors meets your requirements. This specific engineered solution improves efficiency, safety, and the life span of both the power cord and powered equipment.

#8. Electric Power Cords.

Every electrical device that relies on the safe transfer of electrical power from a building wall socket (or a PDU) consists of an electrical cord. This electrical cord could be anything from an industrial machine, a household appliance, an office computer, or even a medical device.

Some electrical cords are classified as being flexible in nature for handling ease, while others can be classified as semi-rigid with a solid core to provide strength and robustness in a factory or workshop.

The connection between the plug and the receptacle (where the cord meets the outlet), must have a well-designed, close working fit that is constructed of materials that eliminate or minimize the build-up of heat and corrosion/deteriorating over time to allow a good transfer of electrical energy.

Electric receptacles (female connector) are typically made of strong strong materials (nickel, silver, or galvanized steel) or high temperature plastic. Typical receptacles in North America are usually designed for a 120 volt system, however, there are always designs for higher voltages (240V and higher) as well for use in industrial or commercial equipment purposes.

Most have a ground pin, plus polarized power cords for safety and compliance with current building codes. Ground wires mean users are less likely to come into contact with electricity through accidental shock.

Polarized plugs mean users ensure that the line and neutral conductors are installed correctly and thus avoiding any potential wiring issue with the power cord.

Non-detachable (or permanently attached) power cords, are hardwired into certain equipment and connected using double-crimped lugs or rings terminals (e.g., Industrial Compressors/ pumps).

These power cords facilitate gainful connections to large, industrial electrical machines or within specialized electrical systems where withdrawal from a circuit is not intended.

Detachable power cords, (also called line cords), are more frequently found in consumer electronics, computer equipment, and portable tools. Detachable power cords employ molded plugs and connectors (male and female).

Detachable power cords are meant for easy replacement or interchanging and are designed with matching appliance inlets (e.g., IEC C13, C15 used within computers, monitors, and server racks).

When you select an electric power cord for your device be sure to check the voltage rating, the amp rating, the connector types, and be aware of their local regulatory certifications. Finally, for industrial users, also consider environmental resistance (oil, moisture, heat, etc.), cable flexibility, and electromagnetic shielding.

What are NEMA power cords?

NEMA power cords are electrical cords containing plugs and connection components for alternating current (AC) power, as defined by the National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA).

Founded in 1926, NEMA’s goal was to develop a standardized supply of electrical power for the consumer benefits of safety. NEMA developed standards for plugs and receptacles that are consistent with all electrical systems in America.

NEMA connectors and plugs are primarily defined in two categories of connectors: straight blade type non-locking and curved blade type locking. Straight blade connectors include a neutral wire, a hot wire and a ground pin or ground wire.

They plug directly into the wall outlet and are rated for current and voltage ranging from 15 amps up to 60 amps and 125 V to 600 V. Straight blade type non-locking blade connectors can easily be found in our residential use or small consumer applications as well.

Curved blade locking connectors allow a secure connection, as they connect to wall outlets and locked in place by twisting the connection to establish a mechanical bond.

A curved blade connector consists of: a neutral conductor, a hot conductor and ground. The twist lock or locking connector is mostly found in commercial or industrial environments, where working around power cables is part of the job.

There are 25 types of non-locking NEMA plugs and receptacles which are numbered from NEMA 1 to NEMA 24, plus the travel trailer connector, NEMA TT-30. NEMA 2 and 10 have been decommissioned and replaced with various new types.

Of the numbering plugs and receptacles, the most common are NEMA 1, NEMA 5, NEMA 6 and NEMA 14, with NEMA 1 being the most basic plug having two blades and no ground pin.

NEMA 1 plugs and receptacles are rated 125 V, and are the most common plugs and receptacles that show up in our homes. After coming out of code and dealing with open ground indications, NEMA 1 and NEMA 1 r in usage seems to have declines for a wider availability of grounded plugs and receptacles.

NEMA locking connectors are referred to by their numbers, NEMA L1 through NEMA L23, and can be divided into three basic types of connectors: two-pole ungrounded; two-pole grounded; and three-pole ungrounded.

NEMA plugs are rated for 125 V included in midget locking plugs ‘ML.’ The letter “L” in NEMA reflects that the connector either has a locking mechanism or not or is required.

As midget locking connectors can be classified into various NEMA, combinations are common, as NEMA L5, NEMA L6, NEMA L7, NEMA L14, NEMA L15, NEMA L21 and NEMA L22 are not as easily found as NEMA L1, L2, L3, which are plenary commonplace.

NEMA Codes

The National Electrical Manufacturer’s Association established a naming system for electrical connectors in order to streamline connector identifications. The naming system involves two numbers. The first number describes the plug configuration, which includes the voltage rating, number of poles, and wires.

The second number is separated by a dash, and identifies the current rating, which can include the following standard amp ratings: 15 Amps, 20 Amps, 30 Amps, 50 Amps, and 60 Amps. An example of a naming system would be NEMA 5-15 which explains that it is a two pole, two wire connector with a 125 V voltage, and rated at 15 Amps.

Additional letters can be used to further clarify in terms of a connector. For example, placing a letter “L” in front of the first number indicates that it is locking. An example of this would be NEMA L5-30P which is a locking plug with two poles, two wires, a voltage of 125 V, and rated at 30 Amps.

NEMA standards are widely used. However, there are still non-NEMA plugs at use. Non-NEMA plugs usually are developed for a specific application, and not controlled by NEMA regulations. They can also differ greatly in terms of plugs quality as they relate to their blades, wiring, and grounding.

What are extension cords?

Extension cords provide electrical power to equipment without an immediate power source, in locations such as construction sites, emergency medical defibrillators, and power tools.

They are essentially a long piece of cable which holds power midway, so that they can connect to a power plug one end, and receptacles at another end. They can be configured to be power adapters or “adapter cords.” 

Extension cords come in an endless number of forms and configurations, making them an ideal step creating a room with inadequate power boards.  When choosing the correct extension cord, you need to consider what is left flexibility. 

Though the physical characteristics – the size, electrical gauge, construction and intended use of extension cords vary considerably.  Unlike power supplies and receptacles that are part of a permanent installation, extensions cords are intended for temporary power use. 

That said, extension cords were meant to be rugged and durable.  The simplest grouping of extension cords is light duty, medium duty, and heavy duty extension cords.

• Light Duty Extension Cords – light duty extension cords are the least expensive extension cords and are very similar to lamp wired cords. They are used to connect lamps, clocks, chargers, and other devices that have a low amperage (< 7 amps).
• Medium Duty Extension Cords – medium duty extension cords have a wiring configuration similar to light duty extension cords at 10 amperage. They can be used to connect televisions, computers, music players and speakers. The light gauge cords (16 AWG) version cables can be made up to 25 feet long, and the medium gauge (14AWG) cables can be made up to 50 feet long. The longest medium duty extension cords are for heavy gauge (12 AWG) extension cords up to 100 feet long.
• Heavy Duty Extension Cords – Heavy duty extension cords will have a 15 ampere and be purchased as 14 AWG or 25 foot, 12 AWG or 50 foot, and 10 AWG or 100 foot. They can be used to connect space heaters, and appliances.

What are power cord splitters?

Power cord splitters (also called cord splitters or power cable splitters) allow numerous devices to draw power (electricity) through one outlet. Splitters effectively divide a single power supply into a number of outlets in order to provide additional electrical connections. Splitters are sold in three-way, four-way and more complex assemblies.

While power splitters can be thought of as an alternate form of extension cords, there is one important difference.

Power splitters are used when devices can be connected close to the power supply, while extension cords supply power to the device from a distance away from the source of power. Power cord splitters are used depending on the power load they will support, and are very safe for providing many power distributions.

A power cord splitter allows for the connection of 2 devices or more to a single outlet. Commonly seen in home entertainment -systems, computer setups, workshop activities, office spaces, etc., splitters are rated 10 or 15 amps and usable at either 125 V or 250 V. They are available in various wire gauges like 12, 14, 16, or 18, with increasing wire sizes that correlate to increasing usage.

What are electrical receptacles?

Electrical receptacles are designed with several insulating materials, such as silver, nickel, galvanized steel, or plastic. The receptacle is where devices may be plugged into and provides the access for electrical current.

Most standard receptacles run on a 120-volt supply. Higher voltage receptacles include 240-volt receptacles that are used for heavy-duty equipment such as industrial machinery. All receptacles must be grounded properly.

In situations where multiple devices will need to plugged into a receptacle, known as a splitter will allow the use of one receptacle for multiple devices. Depending on the wire size and voltage level, the splitter will allow many devices to use the same receptacle through a single receptacle by using multiple plug-in points.

Specifications for electric cords include factors such as, but not limited to, cable temperature, type of jacket materials, wire configuration, wire size, cord length, current rating, voltage rating, type of plugs and type of receptacles used.

North America defines the specifications for the electric cords dry access terminations as mandated by the National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA).

These NEMA configuration definitions, and also their various international standard forms, assist in providing consistency in the manufacturing of electric cords and limit the ability for potential failure.

Polarizing or grounding reduces the potential for electric shock or electrocution by allowing the plug to only go in one direction to the socket that will guarantee the connected circuit is always neutral or grounded.

Electrical plugs and their types of outlets or socket receptacles will vary throughout the world. While the three-prong grounded version is common, some parts of the globe still employ the two-prong type. Many of these will allow the plug to be inserted in one direction, with an example of angled prongs.

Some hazards that electrical receptacles pose include electric shocks, power surges and fires. Protect to some degree, retesting receptacles include the additional measure of automatic un-timed testing of that device every second to identify if a failure could occur if a strain happens.

Retesting receptacles incorporate safeguard measures to prevent overloads and or short circuits. The receptacle will flash a light to indicate to the user that the receptacle needs to be replaced as a Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI).

Retesting receptacles will also typically include a ground terminal back wire clamp, an auto ground clip, two back wire holes per termination with more flexibility and the loading capacity to allow better use of the space in the electrical box.

Most electrical receptacles operate on alternating current and have three main elements, which are live (or phase), neutral and ground.

The material is typically insulated, for example: nickel, silver, plastic, galvanized steel. The electrical receptacle typically has three slots that will accept the two prong tops and the ground prong as well.

Electrical receptacles in the United States provide standard use on a voltage system of 120 volts. Some heavy-duty equipment requires electrical receptacles to be rated at 240 volts for equipment type use such as electric ranges or industrial machinery.

In addition to standard polarization or grounding, further safety measures for receptacles are corrosion and tamper resistance to allow its use in extreme or hazardous locations.

What are plug adapters?

Plug adapters allow plugs of multiple devices to be plugged into an outlet that may not match the plug. Plug adapters will typically not allow a grounding pin to be connected to an ground outlet.

Generally, plug adapters are meant to overcome a situation temporarily. Though they can potentially be safe with grounding installation within a metal breaker box, we would express caution in utilizing plug adapters.

Plug adapters or plug converters, allow electrical devices to connect to modular sockets and plugs incompatible, which will depend on various configurations of the electrical receptacles where the prongs of your plug do not match the holes of the electrical receptacle.

Besides allowing unlike plugs to connect, a plug adapter may actually be able to step voltages up and down to combat electrical imbalances. Voltage adapter converters are used in cases of either higher or lower voltage systems where electrical equipment may overload itself with a device or may not provide sufficient power.

In the U.S., plug adapters may cover the two-prong configurations, which do not use a grounding pin. Plug adapters are especially important when traveling internationally, since other countries have lesser amounts of similar electrical outlets with comparable voltage levels that the U.S. does not use.

Plug adapters will normally consist of at least two parts a plug and a socket. The socket presumably is designed for connecting with your electrical device and the plug is for connecting with the configuration of the power source likely a wall outlet.

Universal plug adapters come available with a socket that fits nearly all global plug types, with the exception that they likely do not cover any of the plugs used in South Africa.

What are electrical plugs?

The most common plug types seen today are Type A, which is two prong plugs, having one prong for live connection and one, the neutral, and Type B, which is a three-prong plug adding a prong for ground making accepting for shock.

The prongs are attached to a plastic casing known as a jack, which separates the two prongs and attaches the prongs to the cord and connects into the plug body.

Electricity flows along the blades, the blade-cord connection, and finally to the power supply cord. Safety standards for electrical plugs were established in 1962 requiring all plugs to have a third prong for ground ensuring the plug is plugged into a socket in only one direction.

Here, in the world, are found 15 different plugs ranging from Type A, B, C, D, E, F, G, H, I, J, K, L, M, N or O. Type A plug was obsolete and has only two prongs. Type B, with the grounding prong, has been the standard in the U.S. Canada and Mexico since 1962. There are Type C to O plugs used in various regions in world. Type C plugs are common in Europe, South America and Asia.

What are plug outlet covers?

Outlet plug covers are safety features that prevent accidents and injury from electrical shock. Outlet covers also protect outlets from environmental conditions and varying temperatures.

Outlet plug covers allow corded connections of electricity, and they allow plugging and unplugging options while blocking access to the receptacle when not in use.  Outlet plug covers in harsher or corrosive environments have specialized plug outlet covers.

Specialized outlet plugs covers include materials that are durable and resistant to specific extreme conditions, or simply evaluate the standards for harsher environments.

Dummy great covers can quell possible surprises, however, a complete switch cover that has a closing door makes the feat stronger than just a visible good-looking dummy plug cover.

These covers are often made from durable plastics that will hold stronger in tough environments as they are not made to “melt” as easily as some power cords.

In addition to plug covers, all types of accessories to plugs, from cord grips to dust shields, and tamper resistive covers. Industrial style grounding systems are also utilized in areas demanding better safety and reliability in difficult or dangerous working environments.

• Dummy Plugs: Dummy plugs are childproof and provide a cleaner feel, which keeps receptacles reasonably clean, free from dirt, and dust. Dummy plugs can be plugs or caps that either have a self-closing cover with or without a self-closing slider that opens or swings open when the outlet is used and a wall plate is to take place.
• Weatherproof Plugs/Plates: Weatherproof plates and plugs are gasketed and self-closing. These plates and plugs can be used in wet or damp locations to hinder fine particle intrusion and also via: horizontal splashes.
• Twist-Lock Plugs/Plates: Twist-lock plug plates minimizes disconnections. These one-piece locking plugs, connectors, and receptacles are the best if someone’s wiring is more permanent.  A twist lock receptacle gives added security and trust that a wire connection will not break.
• Anti- Dust Caps: Anti-Dust caps fit securely on female DC power jacks and male D.C. Power plugs with the purpose of preventing physical damage, dirt, and dust, grime, and liquids.