Hackaday · Creativity & design

Periodic Table of US Electrical Receptacles

The National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA) sets standards for electrical receptacles in the US and other countries, resulting in a wide variety of connector types.

While North American users may only encounter 120 VAC with NEMA 1-15 and 5-15 connectors, the NEMA catalogue includes numerous voltages and receptacle types.

Practical Engineering created a graphic, styled like a periodic table, to display these standards and their usage.

NEMA, a US trade association founded in 1926, influences outlet standards in countries like Canada, Mexico, and Japan, though compatibility is not guaranteed.

Unlike some international standards, NEMA connectors are often polarized, placing the responsibility of AC polarity on the device.

This diversity arose from NEMA's aim to create specific connectors for different polarities, current limits, and voltages used in the US.

This approach has led to many combinations that are not commonly used in practice, presenting a complex system compared to simpler international standards.

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