InfoPower

Selecting the appropriate power cord or cord set starts with knowing who the end user will be. Due to a variety of standards and different plug patterns used throughout the world, it is essential to know what is needed per that country’s requirements.

From being used on a vacuum cleaner to being used on a life-support machine, the purpose of a switch is to open and close a circuit. A switch is used when incoming power in an electrical product design needs to be controlled. Opening a circuit (turning a device OFF) is achieved by breaking the connection. This interrupts the current flow. Closing the circuit (turning a device ON) allows the current to flow again.

When designing electrical products, one way to simplify the power entry element is by incorporating a module, which combines power entry functions into a single unit. Even though these functions are available as individual components, the benefits of a module include user safety, reduced individual component inventory, decreased assembly labor, and saved panel space.

A socket strip distributes electrical power through multiple sockets. It can be used to provide multiple sources of power (sockets) in an application with limited socket access. A socket strip can assist in meeting a need when only a single power source is available, but there are multiple pieces of equipment needing that power source.

Testing during the design process in product development is crucial. If the new product will be distributed in worldwide markets, then using an AC power source is one way to test that product at various voltages and frequencies.