We buy a lot of electrical household appliances of different capacities, made in the EU countries, in which the power cords end with European-type electric plugs. It is known that they differ not only in the diameter of the metal part from our domestic ones, but also in shape, greater potential power and the presence of one or two ground contacts. But we must not forget about the so-called "Soviet" type, which is still widely used in Russia and the CIS countries, along with electrical appliances of the past, so we will begin a brief overview of European-type electrical plugs with them.

One of the most common plug designs in the USSR, designed for 220V, 6A

This type, called the Soviet C1 / B, is still produced in our homeland and, in terms of its qualities, it can be equated with the European type CEE 7 / 16 Europlug. Electric plugs of this type are designed for a current of 6 A and 10 A at a voltage of 220 - 250 V and a frequency of 50 Hz. They do not have ground terminals, but there is one advantage, which is that their design is collapsible, which means that if the cable is damaged, you can replace it, leaving the socket the same and not spending money on a new one. The diameter of the pins in the Soviet plug is 4 mm.

The next type of electrical plug, which also has pins with a diameter of 4 mm and which is widely used in European countries, except for England, Ireland and Malta, belongs to the CEE class 7/16 Europlug. It is used when operating household electrical appliances of low power, without ground contacts and is designed for current strength up to 2.5 A at a voltage of 1100 - 220 V. Compatible with class C, C1, E, F.

Type C6 (in Europe CEE 7/17) we have a “Euro plug”, with round pins (knives) with a diameter of 4.8 mm

But the French type of electrical plug has metal pins already with a diameter of 4.8 mm and one ground contact. Widely used in France, Poland and Belgium. They are used for medium power devices such as vacuum cleaners, air conditioners, water heaters, etc. This type of plug can withstand current up to 16 A at a voltage of 220 - 250 V. Compatible with sockets type C, E, F, but with Soviet type C1 /B are not compatible and can only be used with an adapter.

For electrical appliances of medium and high power consumption, the European German type of Schuko CEE 7/4 plugs is used, which is widely used in Germany, Sweden, Norway and Holland.

CEE 7/4 Schuko plug and Schuko socket

Designed for current up to 16 A, in some versions up to 25 A at a voltage of 220 - 250 V, has a pin diameter of 4.8 mm, one grounding pin and is compatible with sockets C and F. According to its characteristics, "Schuko" CEE 7/4 Fits French type E CEE 7/5 plugs.

There is also a hybrid type of E/F electric plugs - CTT 7|7, which combines German and French quality. Very common in the European Union when using appliances of medium and high power consumption. They have a grounding contact, suitable for sockets type C, E and F with a metal pin diameter of 4.8 mm.

List of connector standards

List of connector standards

In the world, the two main standards of voltage and frequency are most common. One of them is American standard 110-127 Volt 60 Hertz, together with plugs A and B. The other one is European standard, 220-240 Volt 50 Hertz, plug types C - M.

Most countries have adopted one of these two standards, although transitional or unique standards are sometimes found. On the map, we can see in which countries certain standards are used.

Voltage/Frequency.

Fork types.

Types currently in use

Electrical plugs and sockets vary from country to country in shape, size, maximum current, and other features. The type used in each country is fixed by law, by the adoption of national standards. In this article, each type is identified by a letter from a US government publication.

Type A

Type A unpolarized plug

NEMA 1-15 (North American 15 A/125 V, ungrounded), according to GOST 7396 .1-89 - type A 1-15

Unusual American Type A 5-socket block, circa 1928

This type of plug and socket, with two flat parallel non-coplanar (not lying in the plane of the plug body) blades and slots, is used in most North American countries and on the east coast of South America, with devices that do not require earthing, such as lamps and small devices with double insulation. This type has been adopted by 38 countries outside of North America and is standardized in the US by the National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA) NEMA 1-15 outlets have been banned in new buildings in the US and Canada since 1962, but remain in many older homes and still being sold for refurbishment. Type A plugs are still very common because they are compatible with Type B sockets.

Initially, the pins of the plug and the slot of the socket were the same height, and the plug could be inserted into the socket in any orientation. Modern plugs and sockets are polarized with a wider neutral contact so that the plug can only be inserted in the correct way. Polarized Type A plugs do not fit into non-polarized Type A sockets because both slots in the socket are equally narrow. However, unpolarized and polarized Type A plugs fit into a polarized Type A and Type B socket. Some devices for which the location of the live and neutral wires is not important, such as sealed power supplies, are still manufactured with unpolarized Type A plugs (both pins are narrow). ).

Japanese socket with earthing plug for washing machine.

JIS C 8303, Class II (Japanese 15 A/100 V ungrounded)

Japanese plug and socket identical to NEMA 1-15 type. However, Japan has stricter plug body dimensions, different marking requirements, and requires mandatory testing and approval by the Ministry of International Trade and Industry (MITI) or JIS.

Many Japanese sockets and power strips are non-polarized - the slots in the sockets are the same size - and will only accept non-polarized plugs. Japanese plugs will generally fit most North American outlets without issue, but polarized North American plugs may require an adapter or replacement to fit older Japanese outlets. However, the mains voltage in Japan is 100V and the frequency in the East is 50Hz, not 60Hz, so North American devices can be connected to the Japanese mains, but correct operation is not guaranteed.

Type B

Type B fork has, in addition to parallel flat blades, round or letter-shaped U ground contact (American NEMA 5-15/Canadian CSA 22.2, _ 42). It is rated for a current of 15 amps and a voltage of 125 volts. The grounding contact is longer than the phase and neutral, which means that a ground connection is guaranteed before the power is turned on. Sometimes both power pins on type B plugs are narrow because the ground pin prevents the plug from being plugged in incorrectly, but the slots in the socket are different sizes to properly connect type A plugs. If the ground pin is at the bottom, the phase will be on the right.

The 5-15 socket is the standard throughout North America (Canada, USA and Mexico). True, Mexico also uses Japanese-type sockets. The 5-15 socket is also used in Central America, the Caribbean, northern South America (Colombia, Ecuador, Venezuela and parts of Brazil), Japan, Taiwan and Saudi Arabia.

In some parts of the US, new buildings now require outlets with protective shutters to prevent foreign objects from being inserted into them.

5-20R receptacle with a neutral T-slot installed with the ground contact facing up.

In theaters, this connector is sometimes called PBG(Parallel Blade with Ground, parallel blades with the ground), Edison or Hubbell, by the name of the main manufacturer.

NEMA 5-20 (North American 20 A/125 V, grounded) according to GOST 7396 .1-89 - type A 5-20

In newer residential areas, since about 1992, 20 amp T-slot sockets allow both 15 amp parallel blade plugs and 20 amp plugs to be plugged in.

JIS C 8303 Class I (Japanese 15A/100V grounded)

Japan also uses a Type B plug similar to the North American one. However, it is less common than its Type A equivalent.

Type C

Plug and socket CEE 7/16

(Not to be confused with three-pin IEC connectors C13 and C14)

CEE 7/16 (Europlug (Europlug) 2.5 A/250 V, without grounding), according to GOST 7396 .1-89 - type C5 option II

For more on this topic, see: Europlug.

This two-pin plug is known in Europe as the Europlug (Europlug, not to be confused with Schuko, which is called the Europlug in Russia). The plug is not grounded and has two round 4 mm prongs that usually converge slightly towards their free ends. It can be plugged into any socket that accepts 4mm diameter round pins spaced 19mm apart. It is described in CEE 7/16 and is also defined in the Italian standard CEI 23-5 and the Russian standard GOST 7396.

The Europlug is available for class II devices throughout continental Europe (Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Hungary, Germany, Greenland, Greece, Denmark, Iceland, Spain, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Macedonia, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Turkey, Ukraine, Finland, France, Croatia, Czech Republic, Switzerland, Sweden and Estonia). It is also used in the Middle East, most African countries, South America (Bolivia, Brazil, Peru, Uruguay and Chile), Asia (Bangladesh, Indonesia and Pakistan) as well as in the former Soviet republics and many developing countries. It is also used in many countries along with the BS 1363 plug, especially in the former British colonies.

This plug is rated at 2.5 A. Since it is non-polarized, it can be inserted into the outlet in any position, so the phase and neutral are connected randomly.

The spacing and length of the pins allow it to be safely plugged into most sockets CEE 7/17, type E (French), type H (Israeli), CEE 7/4 (Schuko), CEE 7/7, type J (Swiss), type K ( Danish) and type L (Italian).

Fork CEE 7/17

CEE 7/17 (German-French 16 A/250 V, ungrounded), according to GOST 7396 .1-89 - type C6

This plug also has two round pins, but they are 4.8 mm in diameter, like types E and F. The plug has a round plastic or rubber base that prevents it from being plugged into the small sockets provided for the Europlug. The plug only fits large round sockets for types E and F. The plug has both a hole for the grounding pin and contact strips for the side contacts. The plug is used in conjunction with class II devices designed for high operating current (vacuum cleaners, hair dryers), and in South Korea - with any household appliances that do not require grounding. It is also defined in the Italian standard CEI 23-5. Can be plugged into an Israeli type H socket, although this is undesirable as they are designed for smaller diameter pins.

Hybrid Type E/F

Plug CEE 7/7

CEE 7/7 (French-German 16 A / 250 V, grounded), according to GOST 7396 .1-89 - type C4

For compatibility with types E and F, a CEE 7/7 plug has been developed. It is polarized when used with a type E socket, but in type F sockets, the connection of the phase and neutral wires is not observed. The plug is rated for 16 A. It has earthing clips on both sides for connection to a CEE 7/4 socket and a female contact for the earthing pin of an E socket. Appliances shipped to countries using standard E or F are supplied with this type of plug.

Type G

Plug according to the British standard 1363. This type is used not only in the UK, but also in Ireland, Sri Lanka, Bahrain, UAE, Qatar, Yemen, Oman, Cyprus, Malta, Gibraltar, Botswana, Ghana, Hong Kong, Macau (Aomen) , Brunei, Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, Bangladesh, Kenya, Uganda, Nigeria, Mauritius, Iraq, Kuwait, Tanzania and Zimbabwe. BS 1363 is also the standard for some of the former British colonies in the Caribbean such as Belize, Dominica, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines and Grenada. It is also used in Saudi Arabia in 230V appliances, although 110V appliances with a NEMA connector are more common.

This plug, more commonly known as the "13 amp plug", is a large plug with three rectangular prongs forming a triangle. The phase and neutral contacts are 18 mm long and 22 mm apart. 9 mm insulation at the base of the pins prevents accidental contact with the bare conductor when the plug is partially inserted. Grounding pin approx. 4 x 8 mm and approx. 23 mm long.

The plug has a built-in fuse. It is needed to protect the supply wire, since in the UK ring wiring is used, protected only by a central fuse, usually 32A. Any fuse can be inserted into the plug, but for safety reasons it must be rated for the maximum current of the protected device. The fuse has a length of 1 inch (25.4 mm) according to the British standard BS 1362. The wiring to the sockets is done with a neutral wire on the left, phase on the right (when looking at the front of the socket), so that a blown fuse in the plug breaks the phase wire. The same convention is used for all British sockets connected directly to the mains wiring.

The British Wiring Rules (BS 7671) require that sockets in houses at the phase and neutral holes have shutters so that nothing but electrical plugs can be inserted. The shutters open when the longer grounding prong is inserted. The shutters also prevent the use of plugs of other standards. For class II plugs that do not require earthing, the earthing prong is often made of plastic and serves only to open the shutters and comply with the rules for connecting phase and neutral. It is generally possible to open the shutters with a screwdriver blade to insert a Type C plug (but not the British BS 4573 razor plug) or other types of plugs, but this is dangerous as these plugs do not have a fuse and can jam in the socket.

BS 1363 plugs and sockets began to appear in 1946, and BS 1363 was first published in 1947. By the late 1950s, it had replaced the earlier Type D BS 546 in new appliances, and by the late 1960s, Type D devices had been converted to Type BS 1363. Outlets often have phase switches for convenience and safety.

Type H

Two Israeli plugs and one socket. On the left is the old standard fork, on the right is the 1989 upgrade.

SI 32 (Israeli 16A/250V earthed)

This plug, defined in SI 32 (IS16A-R), is not found anywhere outside of Israel and is not compatible with other socket types. It has three flat pins arranged in a Y-shape. Live and neutral are 19mm apart. The Type H plug is designed for 16A current, but in practice, thin flat pins can cause the plug to overheat when connecting powerful devices. In 1989 the standard was revised. Three round 4 mm pins are now used, placed in the same way. Sockets manufactured since 1989 accept both flat and round pins for compatibility with both types of plugs. This also allows the connection of type C plugs, used in Israel for ungrounded devices, to type H sockets. Older sockets, circa 1970s, have both flat and round holes for phase and neutral to accept both Type C and H plugs. As of 2008, Type H sockets, accepting only older Type H plugs, very rare in Israel.

This plug is also used in areas controlled by the Palestinian National Authority in the West Bank of the Jordan River and in the Gaza Strip.

Type I

Australian 3-pin double socket with switches

AS/NZS 3112 (Australasian type 10A/240V)

For more on this topic, see: AS 3112.

This type of plug, used in Australia, New Zealand, Fiji, Argentina and Papua New Guinea, has a grounding prong and two inverted V-shaped flat power contacts. angle of 30° to the vertical with a nominal distance of 13.7 mm between them. Australian and New Zealand wall sockets almost always have switches for greater safety, as in England. An ungrounded version of this plug, with two angled supply prongs but no ground prong, is used with small double insulated appliances, but wall power outlets always have three prongs, including the ground prong.

There are several variations of the AS/NZS 3112 plug, including one with a wider grounding prong for applications up to 15A; sockets that support this contact also support 10-amp plugs. There is a 20 amp version with oversized all three pins, as well as 25 amp and 32 amp options with oversized pins like a 20 amp plug, forming an inverted "L" for 25A and a horizontal "U" for 32A . Such outlets accept plugs of the same or less maximum amperage, but not plugs rated for higher amperage. For example, a 10A plug will fit into all outlets, but a 20A plug will only fit into 20, 25, and 32A outlets).

The Australasian plug/receptacle system was originally called the C112 standard (originated in 1937 as a temporary solution, adopted as a formal standard in 1938), which was replaced by AS 3112 in 1990. For 2005, the last major change is AS/NZS 3112:2004, which mandates insulation on power contacts. However, it is allowed to use equipment and wires manufactured before 2003.

Chinese sockets accepting plug types A, C (top) and I (bottom, standard)

China Compulsory Certification Mark (CCC)

CPCS-CCC (Chinese 10 A/250 V), according to GOST 7396 .1-89 - type A10-20

Although Chinese sockets have 1 mm longer pins, Australasian plugs can be inserted into them. The standard for Chinese plugs and sockets is established by GB 2099.1-1996 and GB 1002-1996. As part of China's commitment to join the WTO, a new CPCS (Compulsory Product Certification System) certification system has been introduced, and corresponding Chinese plugs receive the CCC (China Compulsory Certification) mark. The plug has three pins, ground. Designed for 10A, 250V and used in class 1 devices.

In China, sockets are installed upside down, compared to Australasian ones.

China also uses US-Japanese Type A plugs and receptacles for Class II devices. However, the voltage between the pins of a Chinese socket is always 220V, regardless of the type of plug.

IRAM 2073 (Argentinean 10A/250V)

The Argentine plug has three pins, grounding, and is designed for a current of 10A, a voltage of 250V. The standard is defined by the Argentine Institute for Standardization and Certification (Instituto Argentino de Normalización y Certificación, IRAM) and is used with class 1 devices in Argentina and Uruguay.

This fork is similar in appearance to Australasian and Chinese forks. The pin length is the same as the Chinese version. The most important difference from the Australasian plug is that the phase and neutral are connected to it in reverse.

Type J

Type J plugs and sockets

SEV 1011 (Swiss type 10A/250V)

Switzerland has its own standard, described in document SEV 1011. (ASE1011/1959 SW10A-R) This plug is similar to the Euro plug type C (CEE 7/16) except that it has a displaced earth pin and there are no insulated sleeves so that plugs that are not fully inserted into flush sockets present a risk of electric shock. Sockets used in kitchens, bathrooms and other wet areas are recessed, but not in other places. Some plugs and adapters are wedge-shaped and can be used anywhere, while others will only fit into flush sockets. Swiss sockets accept Swiss plugs or Euro plugs (CEE 7/16). There is also an ungrounded two-terminal version with the same shape, dimensions and distance between phase and neutral contacts as SEV 1011, but with a more flattened hexagonal shape. The plug fits round and hexagonal Swiss sockets and CEE 7/16 sockets. Designed for current up to 10 A.

A less common variant has 3 square contacts and is rated at 16 A. Above 16 A, the equipment must either be connected to the mains in a permanent way, with suitable branch protection, or connected using a suitable industrial connector.

Type K

Danish 107-2-D1, DK 2-1a standard, with round supply contacts and semicircular earth contact

Danish computer socket with turned flattened pins and semicircular earthing pin (used mainly for professional equipment), standard DK 2-5a

Section 107-2-D1 (Danish 10A/250V grounded)

This Danish standard plug is described in the Danish Plug Equipment Section 107-2-D1 Standard sheet (SRAF1962/DB 16/87 DN10A-R). The plug is similar to the French Type E, except it has a grounding prong instead of a grounding hole (the opposite is true in a socket). This makes the Danish socket more discreet than the French socket, which looks like a depression in the wall to protect the ground prong from damage and from touching the power prongs.

The Danish socket also accepts a CEE 7/16 Europlug or a CEE 7/17 Type E/F Schuko-French hybrid plug. Type F CEE 7/4 (Schuko), E/F CEE 7/7 (Schuko-French hybrid), and grounded French type E plugs will also fit this outlet, but should not be used for devices that require a grounding contact. Both plugs are rated for 10A.

The variant (standard DK 2-5a) of the Danish plug is only for interference-proof computer sockets. It will fit into an appropriate computer socket and a normal K-type socket, but the normal K-type plugs are deliberately made to not fit into a dedicated computer socket. This plug is often used in companies, but very rarely at home.

There is also an option for medical equipment, with a rectangular left pin. It is often used in life support systems.

Traditionally, all Danish sockets have been provided with a switch to prevent touching live contacts when plugging/unplugging the plug. Today, the use of sockets without switches is allowed, but such sockets must have a recess that protects a person from touching live contacts. However, usually the shape of the plug makes it very difficult to touch the contacts when connecting / disconnecting.

Since the early 1990s, grounded sockets have become mandatory in all new electrical installations in Denmark. Old sockets do not need to be grounded, but from July 1, 2008 all sockets, including old ones, must be protected by RCD (in Danish terminology - HFI).

From July 1, 2008, wall sockets type E (French, two-pin, with earth pin) are allowed in Denmark. This was done because equipment equipped with K-type plugs was not sold to private individuals and in order to break the monopoly of Lauritz Knudsen, the only company making K-type plugs and sockets.

Type F Schuko outlets will not be allowed. The reason is that most plugs currently in use in Denmark will get stuck in a Schuko socket. Doing so may damage the socket. It can also cause poor contact, with the risk of overheating and fire. Broken F-type sockets can often be seen in German hotels frequented by Danes. Many international travel adapters are sold outside of Denmark with plugs conforming to Type C CEE 7/16 (Europlug) and E/F CEE 7/7 (Chuco hybrid) which can be used in Denmark.

Type L

Plug and socket 23-16/VII

Visual comparison of Italian L-type plugs rated for 16 amps (left) and 10 amps (right).

Italian electrical installation with sockets of both types L (16 A on the left; 10 A on the right).

CEI 23-16/VII (Italian type 10A/250V and 16A/250V)

The Italian standard for earthed plug/socket, CEI 23-16/VII, includes two models, 10 A and 16 A, differing in pin diameter and spacing (see details below). Both are symmetrical and allow you to connect the phase with the neutral in any way.

The double standard was adopted because in Italy, until the second half of the 20th century, electricity for lighting ( Luce= lighting) and for other purposes ( Forza= force, electromotive force; or Uso Promiscuo= general purpose) were sold at different rates, with different taxes, were considered separate meters, and were transmitted over different wires ending in different sockets. Although both electrical lines (and associated rates) were merged in the summer of 1974, many homes remained double-wired and double-metered for years to come. Thus, the two sizes of plugs and sockets became the de facto standard in use today and standardized in the document CEI 23-16/VII. Older products are often equipped with sockets of one of the standards, either 10 A or 16 A, requiring the use of an adapter to connect a plug of a different size.

Ungrounded Euro plugs CEE 7/16 (type C) are also widely used; they are standardized in Italy as CEI 23-5 and fit most devices with low current requirement and double insulation.

Devices with CEE 7/7 plugs are also often sold in Italy, however, not every outlet is able to accept them, since the pins of CEE 7/7 plugs are thicker than Italian ones. Adapters are cheap and often used to connect CEE 7/7 plugs to CEI 23-16/VII sockets, but the current rating requirement (16A instead of 10A) is often violated, which can lead in some cases to an unsafe connection.

CEI 23-16/VII (Italian 10A/250V)

The 10 amp type expands the CEE 7/16 by adding a center ground pin of the same size. Therefore 10 A CEI 23-16-VII sockets can accept CEE 7/16 Euro plugs. A fork of this type is shown in the first picture.

CEI 23-16/VII (Italian 16A/250V)

The 16 amp look looks like an enlarged version of the similarly shaped 10 amp. However, the pins are 5mm thick, spaced 8mm apart (the 10A variant has a spacing of 5.5mm), and 7mm longer. The packaging of these plugs in Italy may claim to be "Northern European" type. In the past they were also called per la forza motrice(for electromotive force) (for propulsion plugs see above) or sometimes industriale(industrial), although the latter was never the correct definition, since the enterprises used mainly three-phase current and special connectors.

Two-size or multi-standard sockets

Socket bipasso(number 1) and Italian adapted socket schuko(number 2 in the photo) in a modern product.

Italian socket brand VIMAR universale capable of accepting A, C, E, F plugs, E/F hybrids and both Italian L plug types.

Since it is a fact that the type of plugs found in Italy varies, in modern installations in Italy (and other countries where type L plugs are used), sockets can be found that accept plugs of more than one standard. The simplest type has a central round hole and two holes at the bottom and top, made in the form of a figure eight. This design allows the connection of both type L plugs (CEI 23-16/VII 10 A and 16 A) and Euro plugs type C CEE 7/16. The advantage of this type of socket is a small, compact front part. VIMAR claims to have patented this type of socket already in 1975 with the release of their model Bpresa; however, other manufacturers soon began to sell similar products, referring to them in most cases by the general term presa bipasso(two-standard socket), which is now very common.

The second fairly common type looks like a type F socket, but with the addition of a central grounding hole. Sockets of this design can accept CEE 7/7 (type E/F) plugs in addition to Type C and 10 amp L plugs. Some of these receptacles may have figure-of-eight holes to accept 16-amp L-type plugs. The price for versatility is twice the size of a normal L-type receptacle.

Other types may go even further in terms of compatibility. Manufacturer VIMAR releases a socket universale(Universal) that accepts CEE 7/7 (Type E/F), Type C, 10A and 16A Type L plugs, and US/Japanese Type A plugs.

Other countries

Outside of Italy, Type L CEI 23-16/VII plugs (Italian 10A/250B) can be found in Syria, Libya, Ethiopia, Chile, Argentina, Uruguay, various countries in North Africa, and occasionally in old buildings in Spain.

Type M

The term Type M is often used to describe the 15 amp version of the old British Type D used in South Africa and elsewhere.

In the USSR, two-pin sockets with non-spring solid ring contacts and a built-in fuse were originally used. These included forks with interchangeable split round pins. Often there were sockets on the back of the plug for connecting another plug, which made it possible to connect plugs in a "stack" when there were not enough outlets. But in the future, such plugs were abandoned, since the pins of such plugs were often unscrewed and broken, remaining in the socket. Plugs with solid pins required the pin to be held by spring-loaded contacts in the socket, so older sockets can't make solid pin plugs securely in contact. However, low-power devices can be connected to such an outlet. Split plugs generally fit type C but cannot fit into type F receptacles due to the shape of the body.

old spanish sockets

In old buildings in Spain, you can find sockets for a special type of plug, which has two flat knives and a round pin between them. This species is vaguely similar to the American one.

Phase and neutral contacts are 9 mm × 2 mm. The distance between them is 30 mm. All three contacts are 19 mm long. Ground pin diameter 4.8 mm.

Despite the fact that the plug resembles an American one, the two flat pins are much further apart than in the American version.

There are no devices sold with these plugs. Need an adapter.

British plug for electric clock

British three-prong watch plug and disassembled plug with 2A fuse.

Fused plugs and sockets of various non-interchangeable types can be found in old public buildings in the UK, where they were used to supply alternating current to electric wall clocks. They are smaller than conventional sockets, usually designed to fit in BESA (British Engineering Standards Association) junction boxes, often nearly flat. Older plugs had a fuse on both wires, newer plugs only on the phase wire and had a ground contact. Most of them were supplied with a retaining screw or bracket to prevent accidental disconnection. Gradually, battery quartz clocks almost completely replaced network ones, and with them similar connectors.

American "Type I"

The American electrical appliance manufacturers, Hubbell, Eagle, and possibly others, made receptacles and plugs that exactly fit Type I, similar to those used in Australia today. Such sockets were installed in the USA in the 1930s for electrical appliances installed in the laundry: washing machines and gas clothes dryers (to drive the motor). They could not accept type A plugs, which is probably why they quickly fell into disuse, being supplanted by type B sockets.

Greek "type H"

Sockets, plugs and tees of the old Greek system

Before the widespread use of the schuko system in Greece, rosettes similar to type H with round pins were used, which were usually called τριπολικές (tripoliki).

Perpendicular rosette, USA

Perpendicular slotted double socket

Perpendicular Soviet slotted socket RP-2B for 10A 42V AC

Another outdated type of outlet from Bryant is 125V 15A and 250V 10A. A NEMA 5-20 125V 20A or 6-20 250V 20A plug with no grounding prong will fit this outlet, but a NEMA 2-20 plug is too big for it.

The top slots, as seen in the picture, are connected to the silver clamp screws on the top, and the bottom slots are connected to the copper screws on the bottom.

In Australia, the same or similar T-sockets are used for direct current, for example in stand-alone power systems (Stand-alone Power Systems, SAPS) or on ships. In this application, the horizontal slot is placed at the top and is at a positive potential. In the same way sockets are used for temporary equipment in emergency vehicles. In Victoria, it is customary for the top of the T to be marked with a minus sign, and therefore at negative potential. Outside of Victoria, the vertical contact is for connection to the hull/chassis. The top contact of the letter T is positive on vehicles that have a negative chassis chassis. Also, the old transport is still on the move, with a positive potential on the chassis, that is, the polarity of the socket contacts can be any.

In the Soviet Union, and now also in Russia, this socket was usually used for supplying voltage reduced for safety reasons, for example, in schools, at gas stations, in wet rooms. The outlet is rated for 42V 10A AC. Such an unusual connection is necessary so that it is impossible to connect a low-voltage device to a 220V socket.

USA Combination Double Socket

The parallel-serial receptacle accepts normal NEMA 1-15 parallel plugs as well as NEMA 2-15 daisy chain plugs. Both pairs of outlets are powered by the same source.

A more recent and fairly common version of this type is the T-slot receptacle, in which the serial and parallel slots were aligned to form T-slots. This version also accepts normal NEMA 1-15 parallel plugs as well as NEMA 2-15 series plugs. By the way, a NEMA 5-20 (125V, 20A) or 6-20 (250V, 20A) plug without a grounding contact will also fit such an outlet. This type of outlet has not been sold in stores since the 1960s.

Dorman & Smith (D&S), UK

D&S socket

The D&S standard was the earliest standard for ring wiring connectors. The connectors were designed for a current of 13A. They have never been popular in private homes, but were very often installed in prefabricated and municipal buildings. They were also used by the BBC. D&S supplied sockets to local governments at a very low cost, with the intention of making money selling plugs that typically cost 4 times the price of Type G plugs. It is not known exactly when D&S stopped making plugs and sockets, but some local governments continued to install them until the late 1950s. years. D&S outlets were in use until the early 1980s, although the difficulty of acquiring plugs for them after 1970 forced residents to replace them with G-type outlets. This usually violated local government orders to redevelop council housing. The D&S plug had a serious flaw in its design: the fuse, which simultaneously served as a phase pin, was connected to the plug body by a thread, and often unscrewed during operation, remaining in the socket.

Wylex, UK

Wylex plugs and sockets were manufactured by Wylex Electrical Supplies Ltd. as competitors to Type G and D&S. There were varieties of plugs, designed for 5 and 13 amperes, with different widths of phase and neutral contacts and fuse rating. The plug had a round grounding prong in the center and two flat pins for phase and neutral on the sides, slightly above the middle of the center pin. Wall outlets were rated for 13A and accepted plugs for 5A and 13A. Many 13A plugs had a receptacle on the back that could only fit a 5A plug. Wylex sockets were installed in municipal and public housing, less often in the private sector. They were especially popular in the Manchester area, although they were installed throughout England, mainly in schools, university housing and government laboratories. Wylex plugs and sockets continued to be produced after the final adoption of the G standard, and were widely used in banks and computer rooms throughout the 1960s and 1970s for uninterruptible power supplies or "clean" filtered mains. It is not known exactly when Wylex stopped making plugs and sockets; however, plugs could be found for sale in the Manchester area until the mid-1980s.

Cartridge adapters

Two Italian lampholders, with tap. Left - 1930 sample (porcelain and copper); right - ok. 1970 (black plastic).

The plug for the incandescent lamp socket is included in the bayonet or Edison screw socket. It allows you to connect electrical appliances to lamp sockets. Such plugs were widely used in the 1920s and 1960s, when many homes lacked wall sockets, or did not have them at all.

Often, lighting circuits are equipped with a 5A fuse or circuit breaker, which does not allow overheating of the cartridge. In the adapters themselves, fuses were set very rarely. In the UK and some other countries, the use of such adapters is prohibited for fire safety reasons.

In Italy plugs for lamp Edison screw cartridges were used very widely until the lighting network was separated from the mains, and some places in the houses (for example, basements) were not usually equipped with sockets.

Type A adapters are still readily available in the Americas.

Rare types

NEMA 2-15 and 2-20

Ungrounded plugs with two flat parallel pins are a variant of the 1-15 plug, but designed to carry 240 volts instead of 120. current 240V 15A, while 2-20 has two power contacts rotated 90 ° relative to each other (one vertical, the other horizontal) and a rating of 240V 20A. NEMA 2 plugs and receptacles are very rare, as their use in households in the US and Canada has been banned for decades. They are potentially dangerous because they do not have a ground connection, and in some cases the plugs can be inserted into sockets with a different voltage. Prior to the adoption of the NEMA standard for 120V at 20A, a plug almost identical to the 2-20 type was used. The 2-20 plug fits into 5-20 and 6-20 outlets, which are rated for a different voltage.

Walsall Gauge, United Kingdom

Unlike standard BS 1363 English plugs, the earth pin is horizontal while the live and neutral pins are vertical. This type of plug was used by the BBC, and is still occasionally used on the London Underground on low voltage networks.

Italian connector Bticino Magic security

Left: Bticino Magic Security socket. Center: range of Magic Security sockets (orange - industrial three-phase socket). Right: Range of Magic Security plugs.

Magic security connectors were developed by Bticino in the 1960s as an alternative to Euro plugs or L type connectors. Sockets of this type are almost rectangular, the plugs were inserted into a figured slot, closed by a safety cover with the inscription "Magic", which could open only when the corresponding plug was inserted into it. At least four models were produced: three single-phase general purpose connectors rated 10A, 16A and 20A respectively, and a three-phase 10A industrial connector. Each connector had its own slot shape so that plugs could not be plugged into inappropriate sockets. Contacts are located on both sides of the plug. The plug is connected to electricity only when it is fully inserted into the socket.

The obvious disadvantage of the system is that it is not compatible with Euro plugs. Since household appliances were never sold with such a plug, after installing such sockets, it was necessary to replace the plugs with the appropriate Magic security. However, the system Magic security was initially quite popular among consumers who value security; the connectors used then were not sufficiently secure. When the safety covers for L type sockets (VIMAR Sicury ) were invented, Magic sockets almost fell into disuse.

The Magic system has not been officially phased out in Italy, and it is still available in the Bticino product catalog, although it is not popular.

In Chile, 10 amp Magic plugs are commonly used in computer and lab rooms, as well as telecom facilities, as a benchmark for reliability and safety due to their polarity, difficulty of accidental disconnection, etc.

Sockets supporting various plug types can be found in various countries where market size or local market conditions make it impractical to develop a specific plug standard. These sockets accept plugs made according to various European, Asian and North American standards. Because many plug standards are voltage-specific, multi-standard sockets are not guaranteed to protect against damage to devices designed for other voltages. This forces users to be aware of the voltage requirements for their devices, as well as the voltage prevailing in the host country. With such sockets, you can safely use devices that automatically adjust to the desired voltage and frequency, and do not require grounding.

These outlets may have one or more grounding holes for three-pin plugs. In correctly wired circuits, the ground pin is actually grounded; however, to determine whether this is so, it is possible only with the help of special instruments. Even correctly wired sockets cannot guarantee a ground connection to all types of plugs, as it is difficult to create a socket of this design.

Legrand connector, designed for high current (up to 32 amperes)

With a three-phase connection of the electric stove, the load on each phase is reduced separately due to the fact that each of the parts of the stove is connected to a separate phase.

With a single-phase connection, the load on a single phase increases. The maximum power consumption of a typical modern electric stove is 8-10 kW, which at a voltage of 220V corresponds to a current of 36-45A. Ordinary household wall sockets are designed, as a rule, for a current of not more than 16A, so the stove must be connected to the mains either in a permanent way or with a grounded connector rated for the appropriate current.

In different countries there are different practices for connecting electric stoves.

For example, Swiss regulations dictate that equipment drawing currents above 16A must either be permanently connected to the mains, with suitable branch protection, or connected using a suitable industrial plug.

The electrical safety rules of some other countries do not say anything about the method of connecting electric stoves, and everyone is free to choose the connection method on their own. Often the consumer himself buys the first non-standard pair of plugs and sockets for a particular electric stove, and it often happens that they are designed for a current of 25-32A, since the user relies on the fact that the stove usually never turns on at full power. The non-standard plug and socket is due to the lack of national standards for connecting electric stoves.

See also

Links

• IEC Zone: Plugs and sockets - This page is an information list. See also main article: AC Power Plugs and Sockets There are two main voltage and frequency standards in use worldwide. One of them is the American standard 100 127 Volt 60 Hertz ... Wikipedia

The IEC connector is the general name for a set of thirteen female connectors mounted on the power cord (hereinafter referred to as the connector) and thirteen male connectors mounted on the device panel (called the input), defined by the specification ... ... Wikipedia

This term has other meanings, see Rosette. This article does not have an introduction. Please complete an introductory section briefly describing the topic of the article. Contained ... Wikipedia

This article is about the design, technical features and development history of plug connectors. For plug connector standards adopted in different countries, see List of plug connector standards ... Wikipedia

This term has other meanings, see Voltage ... Wikipedia

- (CEE 7/17), mechanically polarized version The contour plug (Type designation: CEE 7/17) has been designed to be used throughout Europe like the Euro plug. It is used when the device does not require a protective earth, but ... Wikipedia

DA Info Pro - March 6th. When connecting any household appliance to the electrical network, we do not think about what types of electrical outlets can be. However, you can get into some confusion when repairing the electrical wiring in a house abroad or in an apartment in which foreigners lived before you. In addition, some problems can be encountered when traveling to another country when trying to plug an electrical plug into the network.

Electrical plugs vary by country. Therefore, the US Department of Commerce (ITA) in 1998 adopted a standard according to which various types of electrical sockets and plugs were assigned their own designation. We will write in detail for each type of electrical outlets.

Classification principle and main types

Total exists 15 types electrical sockets. The differences are in the shape, size, maximum current, availability of a ground connection. All types of sockets are legally fixed in countries within the framework of standards and norms. Although the sockets in the image above may look similar in shape, they differ in the size of the sockets and pins (plugs).

All types according to the American classification are designated as Type X (Type X).

In most countries, standards are driven by their history. So, for example, India, being a British colony until 1947, adopted its standard. Until now, in some hotels in the UK you can find the old standard Type D.

The image shows the types of electrical outlets in different countries of the world.

Although polarity is not important for a single-phase current connection, type A and B sockets are polarized. This is manifested in the fact that the plugs have different thickness - the position of the plug is important. In addition, in the USA, where they are actively distributed, an alternating current with a frequency of 60 Hz and a voltage of 127 V is used.

Development of various types of sockets and plugs

The widespread use of electricity in everyday life required the introduction of standards in the field of connecting electrical appliances. This would make electricity safer, devices more reliable and more versatile.

And many manufacturers of electrical equipment and devices in practice provide interchangeable cords for various types and countries for their devices.

Electrical sockets and plugs have evolved, among other things, under the tightening of safety requirements. So from Type D, Type G appeared - the maximum current increased, additional protective insulating coatings appeared at the base of the plugs.

Some types of connectors are already obsolete. So the American Type I, Soviet Type I, old Spanish sockets, plugs with cut plugs have gone out of everyday use. In fact, many countries standardize sizes among themselves. And standardization committees are trying to make interstate standards official. The main such organization is the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC, IEC).

It turns out interesting with the connection of electric stoves - the maximum power can reach 10 kW. Various countries have introduced into the rules and regulations to use a separate type of electrical outlets for such powerful appliances. And in some places they generally oblige to connect without an outlet in a fixed way.

To connect plugs of one type to an outlet of another, adapter adapters are usually sold. They are found both from one type of electrical outlet to another, and universal - from any to a specific one.

This article lists all types of electrical plugs and sockets used in countries around the world.

This is the so-called American type and plugs. The plug has two flat parallel contacts. It is used in most countries of North and Central America, in particular in the United States, Canada, Mexico, Venezuela and Guatemala, and also in Japan. And also in countries where the voltage in the network is 110 volts.

Type B

Similar to type A connector, but with an additional round contact . Used in everyday life in the same regions of the world as plugs and sockets type A.

Type C

This is our native European socket and plug type. The plug has two round pins parallel to each other. There is no third grounding contact in its design. This is the most popular type and socket in European countries, except for the United Kingdom of Great Britain, Ireland, Malta and Cyprus. Used in everyday life, where the mains voltage is 220 volts.

Type D

This is an old British type with three round pins set in a triangle shape. In this case, one of the contacts is thicker than the other two. This type of sockets and plugs is used for the maximum current value in the power grids of countries such as India, Nepal, Namibia and the island of Sri Lanka.

Type E

This type has an electric plug with two round pins and a hole for the grounding contact, which is located in the socket. This type of plug socket is currently used in Poland, France and Belgium.

Type F

Models of this type are similar to models of sockets and plugs type E. Only instead of a round ground contact, two metal clips are used here on both sides of the connector. This type of sockets and plugs is used, as a rule, in Germany, Austria, Holland, Norway and Sweden.

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Type G

This is a typical British socket and its friend is a plug with three flat pins. It is used in apartments and private houses in the UK, Ireland, Malta, Cyprus, Malaysia, Singapore and Hong Kong. Note - sockets of this type of construction are often produced with an internal fuse built in. Therefore, if after connecting the device it does not work, then the first thing to do is to check the condition of the fuse in the outlet, perhaps it is in it.

Type H

This design of socket connectors and, accordingly, plugs, is used only in the State of Israel and in the Gaza Strip. The socket and plug have three flat pins, or in the earlier version, the round pins are arranged in a B shape. Not compatible with any other plug. It is intended for networks with a voltage of 220 V and a current of up to 16 A.

Type I

This is the so-called Australian outlet. It, like the electrical plug, has two flat contacts, as in the American type A connector, but they are located at an angle to each other - in the shape of the letter B. There are such sockets and plugs with a grounding contact. These models are used in Australia, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea and Argentina.

Type J

Swiss type electrical plugs and sockets. The plug is very similar to its Type C counterpart, but has an extra ground pin in the middle and two round power pins. They are used not only in Switzerland, but also abroad - in Liechtenstein, Ethiopia, Rwanda and the Maldives.

Type K

Danish electrical sockets and plugs. The type is similar to the popular European type C socket, but additionally has a grounding contact located at the bottom of the connector. It is the basic standard in the countries of Denmark and Greenland, as well as in Bangladesh, Senegal and the Maldives.

Type L

Italian plug and socket. The model is similar to the popular European type C, but has an additional round ground pin located in the center, two round power pins are unusually in line. Such sockets and plugs are used in Italy, as well as Chile, Ethiopia, Tunisia and Cuba.

Type M

This is an African socket and plug with three round prongs arranged in a triangle shape, with the ground prong clearly thicker than the other two. It looks like a type D connector, but it has much thicker contacts. The socket is designed to power electrical devices with a current of up to 15 A. It is widely used in South Africa, Swaziland and Lesotho.