Recent Posts
The Patterns of Alternate Current Power Cord Plugs—Worldwide
Posted on 1/29/26 9:55 AM
While it’s true that many countries outside of the continental U.S. use North American plugs, and many countries beyond the continent of Europe use European plugs, the majority of countries have their own proprietary plug patterns that adhere to their own standards as well as its safety agency or agencies of choice. Complicated? Yes, and no.
Topics: product design, testing, plugs & sockets
“Rock Out” with a Double-pole, Single-throw Rocker SwitchRocker Switch
Posted on 7/30/25 10:16 AM
A switch is an electrical component used in equipment to “switch” power on and off—technically its function is to open and close a circuit. An open circuit (indicated by a “O” on the rocker) turns devices off, and closing them turns the device on (indicated by a “—” on the rocker) which allows the current to flow again. While it sounds somewhat backwards, it’s the nomenclature of electrical circuits.
Topics: product design, rocker switch
Add Cord Clips to the Eighth World Wonder: Interpower Angled NEMA 5-15 Cords Offer Eight Different Angles for Tight Spaces
Posted on 4/1/25 8:03 AM
In hospitals, medical clinics, production floor cells, and standard brick-and-mortar offices, the spatial relationship of diagnostic equipment, heavy machinery, and peripheral devices and their AC power outlets can become a tricky geometry to solve—equipment placed tightly against walls where odd angles and tight corners loom. Whether your power cords are 7 or 50 feet in length, you may need cords with angled plugs and cord clips, the latter made of glass-filled polypropylene resin for maximum retention to secure the slack of your excess cord.
Topics: product design, Angled Plugs, product development, 1-week lead-time
Multiple Names, Multiple Applications: The High Potential Voltage (Hipot) Test
Posted on 2/26/25 2:44 PM
Dielelectric Voltage-withstand or Dielectric-strength tests are often referred to as the High Potential Voltage “Hipot” test. It’s a common yet important safety and diagnostic tests used for electrical and electronic components and devices—it can be used in both design and production phases in the manufacturing of electrical products.
Topics: product design, testing, Hipot
Top Interpower® Customer Service Questions of 2024
Posted on 1/29/25 12:14 PM
Hospital-grade Filtered Module Issue? Q: We bought module 83545020 from you to replace a broken one we purchased from a different vendor. We have installed it, but it’s not getting any current. Is the module bad, or are we doing something wrong?
Topics: product design, modules, power cord, EMI, safety, international power components, product development, frequently asked questions, technical-support