AC Power Connectors

AC power connectors transfer alternating current through a variety of electronic devices and are used in a variety of commercial, industrial, and residential applications. AC power connectors range from simple AC inlets and outlets to sophisticated power entry modules that combine the functions of multiple electrical components into a single device. For example, some power entry modules serve as switches, fuses, filters, circuit breakers, and indicator lights.  

AC power connectors vary by gender, geometry, and configuration standards. Male connectors plug into female connectors such as outlets and jacks. Standard AC power connectors for computers have three prongs (the third prong is ground) and both a male end and a female end. The female end plugs into the computer, monitor, or other peripheral. The male end plugs into a surge-protected wall outlet. In terms of geometry, some AC power connectors are straight while others bend at a right angle.

There are many different mounting styles for AC power connectors. Jam nut receptacles fit “D” shaped holes, cable end connectors fit the ends of electrical cables, and in-line or cable receptacles fit panel cutouts. Flange mounted connectors attach to panels by bolting the flange or riveting it in place through the two holes in the flange surface. Typically, wall or box receptacles are flanged, threaded through an accessory, and then mounted. Solder / weld mount receptacles are also designed for permanent mounting, but for higher-pressure systems. End launch connectors are soldered to the end or edge of printed circuit boards, and PC mount connectors are soldered into place via pre-drilled holes. Surface mount connectors also require soldering, but do not use pre-drilled holes. 

AC power connectors provide many different ways to terminate electrical connections. Some basic methods include cage clamps, crimps, screws, lugs, solder cups, quick release tabs, and wire wraps. Insulation displacement connectors (IDC) slice through the cable insulation to make a connection. In solder pin or PCB solder termination, electrical connection is made by soldering wires (pins) onto a printed circuit board (PCB). With through hole termination, components are mounted on printed circuit boards by inserting component leads through holes in the board and then soldering. In pin termination, components are mounted on boards without soldering.

Some AC power connectors are equipped with important safety features. Ground fault interruption indicators detect problems with the ground connection and open the circuit for safety considerations. These indicators are commonly found on outlets and include a reset button. To protect against moderate spikes or peaks in electrical supply, some AC power connectors are equipped with integrated surge or fuse protection devices. Other AC power connectors lock into place to prevent disconnection, or include a quick-mating geometry so that one connector can be disconnected quickly to connect to another machine or device. As a rule, hospital grade connectors must meet especially stringent safety standards.

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Part Numbers for AC Power Connectors