Which company to buy sockets and switches. Types of electrical sockets and switches: what are they and how to choose the right one

Every day we use switches and sockets many times, sometimes not even realizing how much the comfort and safety of our life depends on them. I don't want to scare anyone, but incorrect choice threatens to ignite the wiring and electric shock. In the best case, after a while, the plug will begin to fall out of the socket, and the case will start to fall out of the box. The safety of electrical installation equipment, which is understood as sockets with switches, is the most important factor in its choice, but today, when designer switches, sockets with a timer and others appear on sale interesting solutions, great importance have other parameters, and it becomes very difficult to make a purchase. Let's try to figure out how to choose the right outlet and switch.

No. 1. Type of electrical wiring

Electrical wiring in the apartment can be:

• hidden type when the cable is laid in the wall. Without going into particulars, we note that this is the most preferred and safest option, but, alas, not always available;
• open type when the cable is attached directly to the wall.

For hidden type internal sockets and switches are suitable. The main part of the electrical installation equipment in this case is located in the wall, and only a pretty case is mounted outside.

For open postings outdoor type equipment is required, i.e. overhead sockets and switches. They will bulge noticeably, but to say that such details can ruin the interior is still impossible. True, in this case, you will have to more carefully approach the issue of determining the ideal location so that no one touches the socket or switch once again. The advantages include an easier installation.

No. 2. Which socket to choose: the degree of protection of the housing

Even a child understands that the outlet is a source of increased danger. Adults might add that contact with water can be disastrous. So now, do not use sockets or at all? What then to do in pools and other premises where contact with water cannot be avoided? For this case, protective sockets have been developed, the housing of which can prevent negative impact moisture and dust.

When choosing an outlet, be sure to pay attention to degree of protection against moisture and ingress of small objects, which is indicated in the marking with the letters IP followed by two numbers.

The first digit indicates how much the socket protected from foreign objects:

• 0 - no protection;
• 1 - protection against objects larger than 50 mm;
• 2 - protection against objects larger than 12 mm;
• 3 - protection against objects larger than 2.5 mm;
• 4 - protected from objects larger than 1 mm;
• 5 - protection against small particles, incl. from dust;
• 6 - absolute dust tightness.

The second number indicates degree of protection against moisture:

• 0 - no protection;
• 1 - protection against drops falling from above;
• 2 - protection against drops falling not only strictly from above, but also at an angle of 15 degrees;
• 3 - protection against splashes that fall at an angle of 60 degrees, incl. from the rain;
• 4 - protection against splashes that fall at different angles;
• 5 - protection against water jets;
• 6 - protection against a powerful jet of water;
• 7 - protection for short-term immersion in water;
• 8 - protection during long immersion in water.

The choice of socket depends on where will it be used, and what impacts are expected on it. For example, for residential rooms will do socket IP 20, for the bathroom - IP 44, although some advise taking IP 45, and for the street it is worth looking at the socket IP 65.

No. 3. Important technical parameters of the socket

Installation of sockets and switches is better if there is even the slightest doubt in one's own abilities. On the other hand, whoever undertakes the installation of such equipment, it is necessary to know the main technical parameters.

grounding

Sockets can be with grounding and without it. The choice depends on whether there is a ground conductor in the wiring of the apartment:

• socket without grounding usually marked 2K, where K is the contact, and the number is the number of contacts. Such sockets are used when grounding is not provided or optional;
• socket without grounding marked 2K + Z, externally distinguished by the presence of two metal strips in the socket with contacts. This is an option for houses where a three-wire network is used.

It is worth noting that wiring without grounding is becoming less common today, it has remained only in old houses.

Ratings

Sort and strength, voltage, mains frequency are the most important parameters when choosing an outlet. In our networks, an alternating voltage of 220 V and a frequency of 50 Hz is used, in other countries these parameters are slightly different. It is better to choose the rated current depending on the planned load on this outlet. For domestic conditions, it is better to take products with a voltage of 250 V and a rated current of 10 A, for connection washing machine, electric stoves - 16 A. Experts recommend using a ratio of 4 A - 0.88 kW when choosing.

When choosing an outlet and calculating their total number in an apartment, you should take into account the number of kilowatts that is allocated to your apartment. If powerful equipment is connected to all outlets at the same time, the cable may overheat, and this risks turning into a fire. That is why electricians are advised to calculate the power electrical network before installing new equipment and new outlets. Such a calculation is performed by a specialist - it is better not to spare money for this.

Screw and screwless connection

Without going into the nuances of mounting the socket, we note that special screws are used to fix the core in the socket. They are screwed into the plate, which clamps the contact. If the contact loosens over time, you can gently tighten the screw.

There are sockets quick-release contacts, i.e. without screws. Instead of a traditional clamp, fixation here is carried out thanks to special hole, which can shrink and expand when a key is pressed. Manufacturers of such products promise that such a system does not need regular maintenance, and the mechanism is able to independently and reliably press the contact. In fact, this is not always the case, and to restore contact, you will have to do a much more complicated procedure than just tightening the screw.

In addition, experts advise taking sockets where the plug connectors are equipped with springs - they allow you to more firmly fix the plug. If you intend to connect several sockets with a loop, then there should be an additional pair of contacts, which will simplify the installation process and increase the security of the connection.

Connector types

In different countries of the world, sockets are used in which the connectors are arranged differently. Accordingly, and have a plug certain form, hence the problem of adapters. We will not go into various options and the geography of their use (this is clearly shown in the picture), but we note that we use type C (without grounding) and F (grounded) sockets.

No. 4. Types of sockets

In our usual understanding, a socket is just an element with holes where you can connect an electrical appliance, and after using it, you just need to remove the plug from the socket. This is the most traditional option. It is still the most popular, but there are new, more modern devices, which may be somewhat more.

When deciding which outlet to choose, pay attention to these kinds:

• socket with cover indispensable where there is a high probability of moisture or dust getting into the equipment. Such products are placed in bathrooms, pools,. While the socket is covered with a lid, it is protected from negative external influences;
  
• outlet with shutter- ideal for and children's institutions. The design provides for the presence of special blocking elements that will not allow you to put a wire or other thin object into the socket. The curtains open only when an electrical plug is inserted;
• socket with switch, which allows you to turn on and off the power of an electrical appliance, eliminating the need to constantly insert and remove the plug. A similar solution is aimed at extending the life of the outlet;
  
• ejection plug sockets facilitate the process of disconnecting electrical appliances from the power supply, thereby extending the life of the outlet itself and the power cord. The design assumes the presence of a button on the body, when pressed, the plug literally pops out of the socket. Something similar is implemented in mixers. It is appropriate to put such sockets in places where they are actively used, for example, in hairdressing salons and in kitchens;
  
• socket with indicator light suggests the presence of a small light bulb in the design. Its light indicates the presence of electricity in the network and allows you to quickly navigate in the dark;
• floor socket with a retractable mechanism will be needed when it is impossible to place it in the wall for some reason. By the way, retractable sockets of this type are sometimes mounted on countertops;
  
• socket with timer. The functionality is clear, and the shutdown time can be set both using the buttons and the display, and using rotary mechanism;

  
  
  
  

• Wi-fi sockets used in the system "", they can be controlled remotely using a special application;
  
• socket block appropriate where the work of several electrical appliances is constantly required, for example, in the kitchen;
  
• special sockets may be required to connect a telephone, radio or antenna;
• power connectors are needed mainly at the stage of construction and repair work for connecting high power devices.

Among the more original options are also presented window rosettes, which convert solar energy into electricity sockets with wattmeter(show how much power the connected appliance consumes) and sockets withUSB output.

No. 5. Switch selection

Many socket selection options are also valid for the switch:

By way mounts switches can be:

• screw by analogy with screw sockets. Experts say that such switches are good to use with aluminum wiring, which does not spark and does not heat up;
• screwless ones are often used with copper wiring.

Depending on the design features switches are divided into:

• changeover- the most familiar and most easy-to-manage option;
  
• rotary- such a mechanism is often used in retro-style switches. To turn it on, you need to turn the lever clockwise;
  
• push-button- an option that, in terms of convenience, can be compared with a cross-over one, but has not yet found distribution. To turn on the light, just press the button, it is also pressed to turn off;
• dimmers allow you to not only turn on the light, but also adjust its brightness by turning the lever. This is very economical and convenient when you need to create different lighting scenarios in the same room. Dimmers are usually used with incandescent and halogen lamps- it is difficult to find one that could connect to a dimmer, and it will cost a couple of times more than usual.
  

Several switches can be installed on one panel, which are responsible for turning on different groups luminaires is a common and quite convenient solution today. Moreover, the same luminaires can be controlled from different places in the room - this requires the installation of additional switches. The system is becoming more complex, but comfort is growing. Smart switches with a motion sensor, touch or remote control installed in smart home systems.

Separately, it is worth highlighting illuminated switches: A built-in small light will tell you that there is electricity and make it easier to search in pitch darkness. Can be installed at home a switch with a timer or a switch that will respond to popping.

No. 6. Design and material

Elements such as sockets and switches are not usually emphasized in interior design, so they are always selected to match the walls. The style of their performance should correspond to the chosen one, and there is where to roam. Manufacturers offer us products both in the most simple and familiar design, and real works of art.

As material of manufacture usually use impact and fire resistant plastic. Less common and rather elite options - wood, leather, stone, glass and even concrete, porcelain, clay and textiles. It is allowed to use steel, bronze, chrome, aluminum and other metals in switches. Despite the fact that no one focuses on sockets and switches, their design is an important touch in creating a holistic harmonious interior.

The more refined and original design has equipment, the more expensive it will cost, but in the pursuit of aesthetics, do not forget about safety.

No. 7. What else is important to consider when choosing?

Considering several options in the store, it does not interfere conduct a visual assessment:

Among manufacturers sockets and switches, we note Legrand (a French company, an industry leader), Schneider Electric, Jung, Bticino, ABB, Polo, Fontini. There are slightly cheaper products from Polish and Turkish companies, which are also of good quality: Viko, Makel, Karlik, MONO, OSPEL. From domestic manufacturers the largest is Wessen.

Finally, we note that the standards regulate the installation of sockets and switches at a height of no more than 1 m from the floor, but there are many exceptions to this rule, especially when it comes to bathrooms and kitchens - it is permissible to mount the equipment in the most convenient place.

Sockets and switches are indispensable companions for enjoying the convenience that electricity provides. They are completely different shapes, appointments and configurations. You can choose exactly the product that the best way will fit into the interior and will be most appropriate for the purpose. In addition, a wide range of prices for electrical fittings will allow you to choose what fits your pocket perfectly. It will be very easy to do this if you read the suggested purchase rules below and follow them.

Both sockets and switches have many different functions depending on the product types.

socket types

Before choosing an outlet, first of all determine the appropriate type of product, taking into account that they are of the following types:

• Sockets without grounding. They are used in cases where grounding is not provided or not required, for example, in residential premises.
  
• Sockets with grounding. Installed in places where it is important to have grounding. Most often, these are the kitchen or a socket for connecting a computer. They are also used in private homes.
• Cover sockets. The use of such an outlet is relevant in rooms with high humidity, such as a bathroom, boiler room, swimming pool, an external outlet on the house. Such products have a special cover that covers the entire area of ​​​​the outlet and actively prevents the ingress of water or moisture. In addition, it is important to know that sockets for use in wet areas must have a special degree of protection in IP.
  
• Dual sockets. They are mounted in a socket, allowing you to use two electrical connections at once. Not very reliable mechanics of such an outlet may be unsafe.
  
• Sockets with protective shutter or valve. Children's rooms are equipped with such sockets to prevent the possibility of sticking something thin there. The openings of such an outlet are closed with a kind of curtain that opens only when an electrical plug is inserted into it.
  
• Plug-in sockets. They are equipped with a special button, by pressing which a person can easily remove the plug from the socket. Protects the wire from damage, relevant in places where equipment is frequently changed, for example, in the kitchen or in a hairdresser.
  
• Sockets with off timer. The timer function allows you to independently set the operating time of the outlet. It is relevant, if necessary, to turn off the network at night or in production at the end of the working day. It is also used in combination with appliances equipped with a timer, such as air conditioning, electric oven, multicooker or TV.
  
• Special sockets. Designed for antennas, telephones, radio points, computers, etc. There are both built-in and overhead options. There are also types that combine several connectors at the same time.
  
• Power connectors. Special plug-in connectors, which are mainly used on construction sites to connect devices with particularly high power, such as a welding machine.
  

Types of switches

To more clearly understand how to choose a circuit breaker or manual, also first read existing varieties provided by modern manufacturers:

Important! All sockets and switches are also divided into two types, depending on the type of wiring:

• outdoor wiring;
• hidden wiring.

When choosing a device, pay attention to this, as they are not interchangeable, and you may have to go to the store to get a replacement if you chose the wrong option when deciding which sockets to choose.

How to choose a switch by design type?

As already mentioned, switches can have several design options:

When considering sockets and switches, which ones to choose, decide based on the criterion of maximum convenience and network wiring features. Also take into account the number of lamps in the lighting fixture.

How to distinguish quality products from fakes?

To be able to determine the quality of the product yourself, do the following:

What is the best contact system?

There are two types of systems:

Considering all of the above, quick clamping systems have the following advantages:

What material is better?

Since the switch and socket is a device that is regularly exposed to mechanical force, it is important to choose a product from materials of increased strength:

To understand why it is better to give preference to such options, we note some advantages:

Facing material

As a facing material, two types are used:

In addition to products from the two materials described above, which have a simple design, there are more sophisticated options, but less safe:

Safety performance

The main indicators that determine the degree of reliability and safety of the device are its technical parameters: voltage and current of precisely calculated strength. These are the characteristics that should be considered first of all, if you are independently coping with the task of how to choose the right outlet.

The main number of outlets is designed for the following conditions:

To determine the level of protection yourself, be sure to look for a special IP code on the packaging of the outlet, which is a conditional indicator. It is marked with two numbers:

Of course, the higher the IP, the better protection and the more expensive the socket. Therefore, keep in mind that the standard indicators recommended for different types premises, meet the following parameters:

Price categories of sockets and switches

There are several price groups for electrical sockets and switches. Each of them has advantages and disadvantages.

What color to give preference?

The color palette of modern products is quite diverse, so it allows you to choose a suitable socket or switch that will perfectly and very organically fit into the interior with any choice of shades.

It includes the following design options:

Which manufacturer do you prefer?

All manufacturers listed below have already proven themselves in the electrical fittings market. Information about each of these brands can be found on the Internet. There is also a full range of products on offer.

Check out several well-known manufacturers to make it easier for you to choose when buying:

Video

Check out the video review of sockets and switches to clearly understand the distinguishing features of different types.

Conclusion

Installing sockets and switches is the final chord in your repair. Quality products will serve you long years, but it is worth remembering that it is permissible to make the choice yourself, and it is better to trust the installation of such products to professionals. This directly affects the safety of your home.

If you have started overhaul in an apartment or a private house, then you can’t do without work related to electrical wiring. After all the cables are laid and sealed, it's time to choose sockets and switches. Not every person can name the best brands in this segment, and therefore we will try to fill in theoretical gaps in order to facilitate the subsequent choice of electrical accessories. It will not be about “conveyor” construction, when equipment is purchased in large quantities, but about ordinary and private electrical work.

Let's denote the most popular manufacturers producing sockets and switches ( top brands), taking into account the opinions of experts in this field and the reviews of ordinary owners of these accessories.

Criterias of choice

Anyone's desire potential buyer- choose good product with the best value for money. In our case, sockets and switches (the best brands) will vary greatly in the price range - from 25 rubles to 300.

In principle, two main groups of this kind of accessories can be distinguished, where the price is the critical factor: the older one is about 300 rubles per product, the younger one is about 50 rubles per copy.

The article will be partly subjective, because it is very difficult to cover the entire range that is presented on the shelves of electrical goods stores, and a large number of fakes can form an erroneous opinion among the buyer about a particular brand. It is also worth noting that the products that will participate in the review are intended only for concealed installation into the wall (standard block socket with a switch). By and large, we are not interested in the specific cost of products, but in the difference in prices between products from different manufacturers.

The main criterion for the review is classic, that is, products without pretentiousness, but at the same time not primitively simple. In general, everything that is not ashamed to be mounted at home or with a good friend / girlfriend at home. Due to the wild popularity of modular electrical products (prefabricated frames, interchangeable frames, composite bases, etc.), they will be considered as a basis.

Manufacturers of electrical goods (sockets and switches)

The best brands and eminent manufacturers of electrical accessories have their own, sometimes very rich, history, own production and also received recognition at specialized exhibitions.

In addition, the list below can be seen in the reports of large companies involved in the construction and improvement of buildings.

Popular brands producing sockets and switches ( the best manufacturers), the following:

• Legrand;
• Wessen;
• Lezard;
• anam;
• bticino;
• "Belarusian sockets";
• GUSI;
• Makel;
• scneider electric.

Top Models

Based on prices and consumer reviews, the following picture emerges. The bulk of manufacturers and their products have occupied a niche in the budget group, and the three venerable heavyweights have become the leader. As a result, we will evaluate the qualitative indicators of two price groups - the older and the younger.

Senior price group

1. Legrand.
2. scneider electric.
3. Bticino.

The distribution of positions in this group is purely conditional. Each of these three manufacturers has extensive premium collections and a huge range of budget models, that is, sockets and switches, the price of which does not exceed three hundred rubles. Standard and universal solutions of these brands practically do not differ in cost. As for the elite models, they remain just as inaccessible to the average buyer as before, but these are truly high-quality products that will decorate any home.

Sockets and switches "Legrand" are in the first place due to their affordable price. As for Schneider-Electrician, the prices bite there, and Bticino can be eaten at all. But in defense of the latter, we can say that if you hold Bticino products in your hands, then in each element you feel Italian quality, from which goosebumps run down your back, while the same “Legrand” does not cause such emotions. It is quite possible that you won’t surprise anyone with Legrand, and the Italians have recently appeared on our market.

As for the Germans Scneider-electric, there is simply nothing to complain about - everything is done beautifully and impeccably. Turning any socket or switch from Schneider Electric in your hands, you think that you are playing the legendary Lego constructor.

Any product from the above brands is more than a worthy decoration for your apartment or house. If you have free funds, then do not hesitate to spend money on products from one of these manufacturers.

The owners in their reviews speak very warmly about these companies. Users appreciated the quality, beauty and flexible pricing policy of brands. There were no critical comments on specialized forums, so there are no questions about quality.

Junior price group

• anam;
• Wessen;
• Lezard;
• "Belarusian sockets";
• GUSI;
• Makel.

In the first place is a fairly popular company "Anam". Someone may not agree with this choice, because the products of this brand have a very specific look: awkwardly shaped products with giant buttons and wide margins. But in defense of Anam, we can say that this is one of the best contenders for the first place due to the excellent quality of plastic and the enviable pricing policy, which was appreciated by the domestic consumer.

Reviews of the brand's products are mainly in a positive way. The owners appreciated the high-quality and durable products of the company, as well as the original appearance. Some, on the contrary, complain about the frivolity and difficulty of adapting switches and sockets to some design solutions, but this is already a matter of taste and this factor cannot be attributed to critical moments.

As for the rest of the participants in the list, here you can simply say: “both cheap and cheerful!”. These are ordinary models with some distinctive design features, from which you should not expect anything supernatural. Yes, they meet certain quality standards and norms, they can last for a long time, but be prepared for some surprises. Judging by the reviews on the products of these companies, sometimes you can find a small factory defect, like a screw that does not hold a wire, a slightly lopsided button, or an incomprehensible sound when turned off.

Summarizing

If you are doing budget project or you make out an apartment “for sale”, then the lower price group is ideal. Well, in cases of "I'll do it as myself" your choice is senior group. It would also be useful to note that the products of "solid middle peasants" are very rarely faked, while the electrical accessories of European brands, if you look at our shelves, consist of almost 40% of counterfeit.

When repairing or replacing electrical wiring in your home, always try to choose modern solutions. As a rule, they already take into account all the identified shortcomings of the previous series of electrical installation products.

Therefore, when buying new sockets and switches, you can and should choose exactly those that already today have several characteristic differences from previous traditional ones.

This, of course, does not mean that the old sockets are bad, however, the engineering thought of the manufacturers does not stand still and you need to use all the advantages of innovations in your apartment. Let's compare how modern sockets and switches differ from previous budget models.

The new sockets are made of two layers:

• lining - polycarbonate

What benefits does it provide? Polycarbonate provides additional electrical safety.

Even if somehow the phase from the wiring broke through to the socket housing, the front of the caliper will be reliably insulated. And touching it with your fingers will not shock you.

But often, many electricians unwind and disassemble sockets to find a malfunction without even removing the voltage from it. This function Great protection against accidental electrical shocks.

And the presence of two layers allows you to increase the strength of the entire structure by about 50% in front of a traditional galvanized steel caliper.

The front panel is fastened with latches. For dismantling and mounting it back, it takes no more than 3 seconds.

Just pry it from the side with a screwdriver and pull it out with your fingers.

There is even a designation in which particular places you need to pry with a screwdriver.

In the same way, put it in place, pressing down and snapping into place at the attachment points.

True, if a fake comes across, in which the elasticity of the plastic deteriorates over time, these latches from a plus can turn into a minus.

After a couple of years, when dismantling, you can forget how they initially snapped into place, and inadvertently break them.

Traditional fastening of the front panel requires a longer dismantling. You will have to unscrew the mounting screw, and maybe even more than one.

And if you do such an operation quite often, then it is quite possible to spoil the thread. After that, you will have to change not the socket, but the entire socket.

If you plan to use sockets and switches even during the finishing works, then it is better to choose mechanisms with protective covers.

They, firstly, protect the products during transportation. And secondly, they allow you to paint the walls, stick wallpaper even without dismantling the front panels.

overlay frame

Frames in good sockets are attached independently of the front panels. This allows you to freely dismantle and assemble them.

In the old series, the frame is fixed and pressed precisely by the front panel. Therefore, in them, the replacement of the frame with another of the same, but of a different color, occurs only simultaneously with the panel.

It would be better if such products are two-layer.

• outside - ABS plastic

• reverse inner side - reliable polycarbonate

Inside the panel there are latches, due to which the fixation itself on the mechanism takes place. Please note that they may have several risks.

This will allow you to easily align the frames in case of small wall irregularities.

Internal insulation

A high-quality socket, even with the front panel removed, ensures complete electrical safety.

All internal current-carrying parts are securely closed and insulated. There is no access to them.

In sockets budget series, there are always obviously open current-carrying parts.

And if you work with a screwdriver that does not have an insulated tip, then you can either get energized or accidentally overlap the phase and the grounded case with the tip itself.

In accordance with safety regulations, all sockets installed in living rooms must have protective curtains. How do good sockets differ in this regard from cheaper ones?

In budget products, the curtain mechanism is fixed directly to reverse side front panel.

Very often, because of such curtains, the following problem arises. There are forks combined type. That is, part of the legs of the fork is insulated with plastic, and the ends themselves are metal.

Most often, such plugs are used in various kinds charging. They have metal ends slightly thicker than the middle part of the contact legs.

It plugs into a normal socket without any problems. But when you try to remove it and pull it out, the protective curtains bite the contacts like a guillotine.

Biting occurs precisely at the border of the transition of plastic-metal materials. As a result, the plug sticks in the socket.

And it takes a lot of effort to pull it out. Often all this ends with a break in the protective curtains.

In a good modern outlet, the shutter mechanism is recessed deep into the body, and not located on the reverse side.

Accordingly, such a problem as biting a fork simply does not exist. Any fork enters and is removed from it very gently.

Fastening

The fastening of sockets is carried out for both traditional and new models either on screws that are in the socket or on grips. When tightened, the grips dig into the walls of the socket box.

However, in the design of improved models there are features. The so-called “double tooth” technology is used here.

It allows you to increase the separation force by about one and a half times.

Another difference between a high-quality socket is the presence of a special profile, the so-called “dovetail”. It makes it very easy to install sockets and switches in blocks.

If you need to connect two or more mechanisms under the same frame, you set the very first one perfectly exactly according to the level of the Pocket Electric electrician, and mount the second and subsequent ones using a dovetail.

As a result, all mechanisms will be quickly and evenly installed in their seats.

Screw or screwless contacts

Modern and most old models also differ in the technology of connecting conductors. The latest sockets have screwless terminals that allow you to quickly connect and disconnect the cores of cables or wires.

Among electricians, there is still a heated debate about which of the contacts is more reliable. Allegedly screwless, reduce the area of ​​contact with the wire.

This reduces the conductive capacity and reliability. However, such a dispute resembles the age-old question, what is better than Wago or twist?

Much depends on the quality of performance and operating conditions. There are sockets where a sufficiently powerful spring exerts pressure on just one point - for example, from manufacturers Gira, Legrand, Schneider.

But ABB has a spring of less elasticity, but it presses already at two points at the same time.

Use all products according to the norms and recommendations and problems will never arise. For example, in some European countries, at the legislative level, since the 60s, the use of screw terminals has been prohibited.

The main advantage of screwless terminals is that such connection does not require further maintenance. As the manufacturer assures, after installation, subject to rated loads, you will no longer look into such an outlet for many decades.

All old sockets use screw technology. The stripped wire strands are clamped with traditional screws.

Moreover, the clamping force is also normalized. Professional installers use special torque screwdrivers for this.

Such contacts have a much higher labor intensity during installation and dismantling. In addition, it is desirable to periodically tighten these clamps, that is, to service them. And this entails the analysis of almost half of the design of the entire outlet.

Wires compressed by a screw during temperature fluctuations - heating at maximum load and cooling when it is turned off, can shrink. And accordingly, the contact will weaken over time.

In high-quality sockets, conductors in screwless contacts are in a constant preloaded state, even hot, even cold.

In addition, they have a limiter template on the reverse side, which shows how accurately millimeters it is necessary to remove the insulation from the core.