InfoPower Archive

In designing electronic equipment, simplifying the power entry element can make the assembly easier and can benefit a company in the product design.

With today’s need for electronic equipment, manufacturers are realizing that in order to prosper—and in some cases to survive—they may have to export to global markets. When designing for global markets, a number of factors are involved, such as being able to provide equipment that is easily adaptable to the needs of the consumer, without any reconfiguration on their part.

Cable completes the electrical circuit from the power source to the equipment. The end destination of the product will determine the type of cable that will need to be used. Two of the widely used types are North American and international approved cable. While the two cable types may be similar in appearance, there are a number of important differences.

When designing an electrical/electronic product that will be for sale in any part of the world, deciding on the type of cable is an important step in that process. To assist in selecting the correct cable, please consider the following questions.

NEMA (National Electrical Manufacturers Association) has a variety of standards for electrical manufacturers. This is so that consistency and safety can be achieved. A numbering system has been created to standardize the description and rating of NEMA plug and socket patterns.