We do not think about such an ordinary thing as an electrical outlet, until we go on a trip. And there, like at home, we have to regularly charge the smartphone or use the hairdryer. We found out why not in all countries our gadgets and household appliances are compatible with local networks.
As the power grid develops in the world, a variety of outlets appeared. Different types of electric generators were built, which also had an impact on the design of the connectors. Companies that engaged in installation of power grids also supplied devices suitable for these networks - each company has their own. Some of the sockets created at the time (in upgraded) are used today, and other it was decided to refuse security reasons. But still in the world there is no single standard for all power grids - in different parts of the light, the voltage and the frequency of the current may differ. Voltage 100-127 at at a frequency of 60 Hz USA, Canada, Japan, Mexico, Cuba, Jamaica, partly Brazil and other countries. Voltage 220-240 V with a frequency of 50 Hz is used in most other countries, but even with the same parameters, the type of sockets can vary greatly. In total, 12 main types of sockets are distinguished in the world (on another classification - 15). A brief description of some of them.
Types A and B - American Socket
Type B differs from a presence of a third hole - it is intended for a grounding pin. Such outlet, as you can guess from the name, were invented in the United States and are distributed in the territory of Northern, Central and Partly South America, as well as Japan and some other countries.
Types C and F - European Socket
Just like a and b, the types C and F differ only with only the presence of grounding - it is in F. The European socket is used in most EU countries, as well as in Russia and the CIS, Algeria, Egypt and many other countries.
Type G - British Socket
In the UK, the socket has three flat holes, and this design appeared not just like that. The fact is that during World War II, the country has experienced copper deficit. Therefore, a plug with a short copper fuse and three plugs was developed. In addition to the UK, the same socket is used in Cyprus, Malta, in Singapore and other countries that have experienced the influence of the British Empire.
Type I - Australian Socket
This type of socket can be found not only in Australia, but also in New Zealand, Fiji, Cook Islands, in Kiribati, New Guinea, Samoa and sometimes in China, where types A and C are also distributed.
Type H - Israeli Socket
Type H is used only in Israel and Palestine, and the plug pins can be both round and flat - it depends on when the device was produced. The flat shape of the socket was at the old technology, but new sockets are suitable for two options.
Type K - Danish socket
This socket can safely claim the title of "the most friendly" in the world - its design resembles a smiling face. In addition to Denmark and the type of Greenland, the type K is used in Bangladesh and in Maldives - however, several types of outlets are common. Fortunately, all these differences will not spoil your vacation or a business trip - you just need to purchase a suitable adapter in advance.
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