Tag: plugs

Finding the Right Dryer Plug

The other day, my friend called me in a panic when he moved into his new house.dryers  When trying to install his new dryer, he noticed his dryer plug did not match the outlet.  His dryer plug only had three prongs, while they outlet had four holes.  While this may be alarming, it is a very common problem.

Prior to 1997, all dryer cords and receptacles only had three prongs and three receptacle holes.  There was one neutral prong and two positive prongs.  However, in 1997, the National Electric Code mandated that all dryers be outfitted with 4 prongs.  A ground prong was added.  If you have read my previous posts on grounding, you will know that grounding an electronic device is very important for safety reasons. Continue reading Finding the Right Dryer Plug

Brazil Standard

FlagBrazil is a wonderful, beautiful country filled with rich history and culture.  However, previous to 2010, the country was lacking in one major area; electrical standardization. There was no formal Brazil standard for any electrical sockets or plugs.  Since there was no standard, that led to a total of eight different kinds of plugs.  That’s right; eight!  The multitude of options caused Brazilian citizens and tourists alike to have a difficult time connecting different plugs and wires for numerous electronic devices. Continue reading Brazil Standard

The Magical and Mystical Rotating Plug

rotating2Wouldn’t it be nice if all of your power cords knew exactly what you were thinking, and knew exactly how to rearrange themselves? Imagine the possibilities! Power cord, I need you to fit in the small space between my desk and the outlet! Power cord, I need you to rotate about 45 degrees! Power cord, bake me a cake! Unfortunately, technology is not all the way there yet. But while power cords may not be able to produce baked goods, we do have a jump start on the rotating plug! Continue reading The Magical and Mystical Rotating Plug

The History of Electrical Sockets and Plugs

globeHave you ever wondered why there are so many different sockets and plugs and cords when you travel the world?  I often hear friends complaining about blowing sockets out when they go overseas, or about having to buy so many different adapters when traveling.

“Clark, why can’t they all be the same?” they ask me. “Why haven’t power cords been standardized?”

There is a long answer and a short answer.  The short answer is they have.  The long answer is where we start our story. Don’t yawn! While this tale may seem simple, it is a hallowed story marked by patent corruption, war, and colonialism… Continue reading The History of Electrical Sockets and Plugs

Polarized: It’s Not Just for Sunglasses

Polarization often reminds people of sunglasses, but it’s actually an electrical term as well! Who knew? (Well, I did, but I’m the exception, not the rule). My knowledge of polarization was particularly useful the other day. I was playing a casual game of croquet with my friend, Quincy Quail, when he started complaining about plugs to me, of all things.

“What’s the point,” he asked, “of having those 2 little prong things different sizes? I always try to plug lamps and things like that in, and I end up doing it backward! It’s so frustrating!”

I realized that many people must have this problem and that as a power cord blogger, I have a responsibility to the world to make sure people are getting the most out their sockets, and understand why their plugs are the way they are.

Continue reading Polarized: It’s Not Just for Sunglasses