American Plugs and Sockets
Many people have trouble understanding the NEMA (National Electrical Manufacturers Association) pattern and numbering system as allocated to the US power connectors - available to purchase from our e-shop in the connectors section. The code is comprised of four major identifiers, in a combination of numbers and letters which can appear more like alphabet soup than a structured electrical specification.
However there is a simple way to decode plug patterns and connections, making locating the correct specification dead easy.
- The first identifier, which is either a blank space or an “L,” indicates whether the plug is a straight or locking blade device - if there is an “L” it is a locking connector.
- The second identifier is a number which assigns the voltage rating; for example, a “5” represents a voltage rating of 125 Vac and a “6” denotes a rating of 250 Vac. The rating given is the highest voltage allowed for the device. Other voltage ratings are described below.
- The third identifier, also a number, identifies the highest amperage rating allowed for use with the device.
- The fourth and final identifier is a letter that determines whether the device is a plug (“P”) or a receptacle / outlet / socket (“R”).
Putting that all together into a quick reference chart produces the following:
You can view a larger version in your browser or view or download a full size printable pdf of this chart.