What are the sockets: types of electrical devices in different countries

Many countries have their own standard connectors, so when traveling to another country, you need to know what the sockets are, so as not to damage them while charging the gadgets. The usual types of connectors common in the post-Soviet space cannot be used to connect a telephone or computer, which were brought, for example, from America.

Types of modern power grids

An outlet is the end point of a complex network for the supply of electricity to an electrical appliance. Equipment in the CIS countries consumes electricity with different voltages:

• 220 V;
• 380 V;
• 110 V.

The first electrical network is single-phase and supplies 220 volts to apartments and houses. This is enough for ordinary household appliances, both domestic and imported.

The three-phase network supplies 380 volts. It is often intended for industrial as well as agricultural devices such as crushers or compressors.

A network that produces a voltage of 110 volts is widespread in non-CIS countries. In the vastness of the post-Soviet space, it does not exist, but there are electrical appliances. They come by mail after ordering goods from some foreign Internet resource. It is clear that you cannot connect a device that is designed for 110 volts to a 220 V.

Most people use special adapters for this. But you can also connect an outlet with a preliminary voltage reduction in the shield. To do this, you must use the connector used in the USA or Japan.

Types of electrical outlets

The laws of electrical engineering always remain unchanged, regardless of the type of outlets and their functional purpose. The main task of this hardware element is to easily ensure the connection of an electrical appliance to a fixed network. There are the following types of electrical outlets depending on the countriesin which they are used:

1. United States of America and Japan. These states use 110 V.
2. CIS and some European countries. Connectors are used for 220 V networks.
3. United Kingdom. This state has its own kind of connectors. Almost the same applies to South Africa.
4. French. The same option, but with a grounding contact.
5. German socket.
6. Swiss connector.
7. Connectors used in Australia.
8. Italian. Differs in its simplicity and functionality.

The elements and materials used are the same in all countries. The only difference is in the shape of the product.

Component elements

Different types have different designs, but the outlet design is always the same. The standard design of the product implies the presence of two connectors (one for phase, the other for zero). If grounding is provided, then there will be 3 contacts. With the required voltage and current frequency, you can connect any device using an adapter. Components of an electrical outlet:

1. Base. Made from some kind of dielectric material. The most commonly used ceramics or plastic. The ceramic base is more fragile than the plastic base, but it can withstand much higher temperatures. This is necessary in case of overheating of the contacts. The element has special sockets for connecting wires and a fastening mechanism.
2. Fastening mechanism. Internal devices use special spacer legs. For external ones, this element is made in the form of conventional holes for screws.
3. Contacts for phase and zero.
4. Grounding contact. Not used in all outlets.
5. Plastic cover. Protects the connector from moisture and various contaminants. In some cases, it consists of two parts.

These are the details that are present in any kind of socket. There are also products on the market that have various additional functions.

Additional functions

There are sockets that provide not only the connection to the mains. They have additional functionality that enhances performance. Basic additional elements:

1. Protective curtains. Their main task is to ensure the safety of children. They also prevent debris from getting inside the structure.
2. Moisture protection. The design of the enclosure is made in such a way as to prevent the ingress of liquid. There are different classes of protection. Some species can withstand immersion in water to a depth of one meter.
3. Fork ejector. The socket is equipped with a special mechanism that, when you press the button, allows you to remove the plug without effort.
4. Backlight.
5. Residual current device. Automatically cuts off the power supply to the device in the event of a voltage drop.
6. Counter socket.
7. Built-in timer. You can turn on or off the device at a certain time.
8. Built-in phone charging jack.

The main elements of the socket always remain the same. This allows you to connect a device from any manufacturer to the power supply in different countries. Sometimes you have to use an adapter.

Differences in type and purpose

Connectors for connecting electrical devices are divided into two types: internal and external. The internal version is the most popular type, although installation is somewhat difficult. But this drawback is completely covered by a good appearance and fire safety. All wires are hidden in grooves or special cable ducts.

Outdoor views are often used for temporary wiring or in wooden houses. Also, outdoor types include powerful devices that are large in size.

Previously, sockets were intended only for connecting various devices to electricity. Now the number of cables in an ordinary house has increased several times. This became the reason for the emergence of new types of connectors: output for a television antenna, Internet, landline telephone, radio.

Recently, even sockets for connecting audio speakers and USB charging for a phone have become popular.