An AC power connector is an interface used to connect an electronic device to an AC power supply. It allows electricity to be transferred from a wall electrical outlet to the device, thereby powering the device. These connectors are common in a variety of home appliances, office equipment, and industrial applications. Follow INFINITECH to learn more about AC power connectors.

1. What are the functions and features of the AC power connector

2. What are the types of AC power connectors

IEC 60320 C Series

C5 / C6 / C14 / C15 / C16 / C20 / C22: these connectors are widely used in computers, monitors, printers and other office equipment. Among them, C14/C15 is the common power plug, and C13/C16 is the corresponding socket.

Features: Usually used in low-power equipment, with good versatility and safety.

Application: Suitable for most parts of the world, especially in Europe, Asia and parts of North America.

NEMA Series

NEMA 1-15, 5-15, 5-20, 6-15, 6-20: These are standard plug and socket types in North America.

Features: NEMA 1-15 and 5-15 are the most commonly used and are suitable for most household appliances and small office equipment.

Application: Mainly in the United States, Canada and other regions that adopt the NEMA standard.

BS series

BS 1363: This is the British standard plug and socket system, also known as the "BS plug".

Features: Has a high rated current, usually 13A.

Application: Suitable for the United Kingdom and its former colonies, such as Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, etc.

Schuko (Schuko R)

Features: This type of connector has no fixed polarity and is suitable for most countries in continental Europe.

Application: Widely used in Germany, Austria, France and other European countries.

Europlug (Type C)

Features: This is a small round plug with a maximum current of 2.5A.

Application: Suitable for low power devices such as chargers and headphone adapters.

Australia/New Zealand (AS/NZS 3112)

Features: This connector features three flat pins, including a ground pin.

Application: Mainly used in Australia and New Zealand.

China GB 1002/GB 1003

Features: China national standard plug and socket system, there are two types, one is without a ground pin, the other is with a ground pin.

Swiss (SEV 1011)

Features: Swiss-standard plugs and sockets with high current and voltage ratings.

Application: Mainly used in Switzerland.

Italian (CEI 23-16/VII)

Features: Italian standard plugs and receptacles, usually without ground pins.

Application: For use in Italy.

Japanese (JIS C 8303)

Features: Japanese standard plug, similar to American NEMA 1-15, but with a slightly different shape.

Application: For Japan.

3. What are the environmental requirements for the installation of the AC power connector

Avoid vibration: Vibration may cause loose connectors or poor contact, so try to install the device in a stable environment and avoid vibration sources.

Avoid moisture: A humid environment may result in decreased insulation performance and increase the risk of leakage. Choose a dry place to install the equipment, or take appropriate waterproof measures.

Avoid corrosive gases: Certain chemicals can corrode the metal parts of the connector, reducing its electrical conductivity and service life. Ensure that the installation area is free of corrosive gases.

Avoid dust: Too much dust may enter the interior of the connector, resulting in poor contact or short circuit. When used in a dusty environment, appropriate dust prevention measures should be taken.

Protective measure

The use of rubber washers or shock absorbing materials around the connector can reduce loosening due to vibration.

For corrosion-prone environments, an anti-corrosion coating or plating can be used to protect the metal part of the connector.

Use sealing rings or dust caps to protect connectors from dust intrusion.

For environments that may suffer from water splashes or high humidity, waterproof seals or waterproof connectors can be used.

Check connectors regularly for wear or damage, and replace faulty parts in a timely manner.

Precautions for use

Ensure that the connector is fully inserted to avoid damage caused by forced insertion or removal.

Do not exceed the rated voltage and current limits of the connector to avoid overheating or fire.

Use connectors that meet local safety standards, and make sure the connector matches the power outlet.

If the connector has a ground pin, make sure the device is properly grounded to improve safety.

Select a connector of reliable quality and ensure that it meets the relevant safety certifications.

4. Troubleshooting guide for the AC power connector

Fault 1: The system cannot be started or is started abnormally

• Symptom: The device fails to start properly or has abnormal behavior during startup.

• Possible reasons:

  • Overload: The load on the rear end of the connector exceeds the rated capacity of the connector or power supply.

  • Excessive instantaneous starting current: Some devices will generate a large instantaneous current when starting, which may cause a temporary interruption of the power supply or a trip of the protection device.

• The solution:

  • Check and lighten the load: Ensure that connectors and power supplies are not loaded more than their rated values.

  • Use a soft start circuit: For devices with a high starting current, consider using a soft start circuit to smooth the start process.

  • Replace a larger capacity connector or power supply: If you experience this type of problem frequently, you may need to replace a larger capacity connector or power supply.

Fault 2: No output or damage

• Symptoms: The device has no output at all or an abnormal output, and the connector itself or the components connected to it may be damaged.

• Possible reasons:

  • Harsh use environment: such as high temperature, humidity, vibration and other harsh environments may cause damage to the internal components of the connector.

  • Component damage: conductive contacts and insulation materials inside the connector may be damaged due to prolonged use or external factors.

• The solution:

  • Check the connector: Make sure the connector is not physically damaged, check that the contacts are clean, and clean or replace them if necessary.

  • Replace damaged components: If a component is found to be damaged, replace it promptly.

  • Improve the use of the environment: try to avoid placing the equipment in a harsh environment, or take necessary protective measures.

Fault 3: Ripple noise problem

• Symptom: There is ripple noise in the output voltage of the device that does not conform to the product standard.

• Possible reasons:

  • Improper filter circuit design: The filter circuit does not effectively remove the ripple in the power supply.

  • Poor power quality: The grid itself may have voltage fluctuations or harmonic interference.

• The solution:

  • Optimize the filter circuit: enhance the filter circuit near the power connector, add or optimize capacitors, inductors and other components.

  • Use a regulated power supply: If conditions permit, a regulated power supply can be used to provide a cleaner power input.

  • Shielding and grounding: Ensure good shielding and grounding to reduce the impact of external interference.

Troubleshooting procedure

First check the power cables, connectors, and power sockets for obvious physical damage.

Use a multimeter to measure the voltage, current, and resistance.

Check the operation manual or technical documentation of the device for recommended troubleshooting procedures.

If the fault cannot be resolved by yourself, contact the device manufacturer for technical support.

For complex faults, it is best to be repaired by professional technicians.