Click here for a detailed list of the countries of the world with their respective plug and outlet types, voltage and frequency. Click here for a global map showing the spread of the different plug types used around the world. Dc voltages usually require an led driver to convert the mains voltage ac into low voltage dc. Ac standards for alternating current and dc standards for direct current. When looking at the front of the socket with the earth aperture uppermost (as normally mounted) the lower left aperture is for the neutral contact, and the lower right is for the line contact. Out of stock lines - place your order with us and it will be delivered direct to you from one of our yesss stores within 2 working days.

Colour and material are two factors often considered when buying plug sockets. These two factors not only relate to an aesthetic consideration, but practical applications also must be considered. Metal sockets can be used in areas where additional strength and resilience is required whereas plastic sockets are most commonly found in home and office applications.There are a range of plug types across the globe with their relevant plug sockets to match.

In the united kingdom and in ireland, this system is usually referred to simply as a "13 amp plug" or a "13 amp socket". There are certain characteristics common to british mains plugs and sockets intended for domestic use. British standards for plugs (with the exception of bs 4573) have always specified side entry flex (entry in other types is usually parallel to the axes of the pins).

British standards have proliferated throughout large parts of the former british empire. Shop online  at the electrical counter and explore our extensive range of switches and sockets. With our user-friendly website and secure payment options, it's never been easier to find the perfect electrical accessories for your project. Whether you're a homeowner, electrician, or contractor, we have the products you need to complete your electrical installations. Several manufacturers have made deliberately incompatible variants for use where connection with standard plugs is not acceptable. Common uses include filtered supplies for computer equipment and cleaners' supplies in public buildings and areas (to prevent visitors plugging in unauthorised equipment).

These include plugs with insulated sleeves, sockets with blocking shutters, and sockets designed to accept only compatible plugs inserted in the correct orientation. Alternatively, shutters may be opened by simultaneous insertion  of line and neutral pins. Some later designs require all three pins to be inserted simultaneously. The use of automatic shutters for protection dates back to at least 1927.[71] other countries, for example the usa,[72] are gradually requiring their sockets to be protected by shutters.

Ensuring you have o cam dien the correct socket type for your region is essential for safe working as well as ease of use without the need to plug connectors or converters. A bs 1363 plug has two horizontal, rectangular pins for line and neutral, and above these pins, a larger, vertical pin for an earth connection. Both line and neutral carry current and are defined as live parts.[11] the earth pin also serves to operate the basic shutter mechanism used in many sockets. Correct polarity is established by the position of the earth pin relative to the other two pins, ensuring that the line pin is connected to the correct terminal in the socket-outlet.