Significance of Plugs and sockets

Plugs and sockets are devices for connecting electrically operated devices to the power supply. An electric plug is an electrical connector with contact prongs to connect mechanically and electrically to slots in the matching socket. Sockets also called as power points, power sockets, electric receptacles, plug sockets or electrical outlets are pure electrical connectors that have slots or holes which accept and deliver current to the prongs of inserted plugs.

An Industrial plugs and sockets supply a connection to the electrical mains rated at higher voltages and currents than household plugs and sockets.

Design features and aspects of plugs and sockets have evolved to reduce the risk of electric shock and equipment damage. Depending on the plug/socket system most of the light products companies safety measures may include pin and slot configuration to permit only the correct insertion of plug into socket, earth pins longer than power pins so the device becomes earthed before power is connected, insulated pin shanks to reduce or eliminate live-contact exposure when a plug is partially inserted in a socket, socket slot shutters that open only for the correct plug, as well as inbuilt fuses and switches.

To reduce the risk of injury or death by electric shock, some plug and socket systems incorporate various safety features. Sockets are designed to accept only matching plugs and reject all others. Electrical plugs and their sockets corresponding to each circuit panels may vary by country in shape, size and type of connectors. The type used in each country is set by national standards legislation.