What’s the Difference Between Plug and Receptacle?

Most people know the difference between plugs and receptacles. In short, a plug is the “male” counterpart that functions as an electrical connection. This part is then attached to the “female” counterpart, which is called the receptacle. They can be placed anywhere where there is an electrical conductivity in the household or in the workspace. In the United States, the receptacle and plug are made up of three plugs that must be fitted into three holes. However in other countries, the plug and receptacle take different forms, which can range from two plugs to just one plug. For more information on common connector plugs and receptacles, read this handy guide below.

Connector plugs are generally shell types of plugs that harbor connections with contacts and wires that are placed inside the wires and used on electrical wiring harnesses. Each connector plug has an insert piece that is specifically formatted for a mating socket (a receptacle). The inserts are normally resistant to moisture and water, as they have a hermetic seal to protect the plug, receptacle, wires, and connection.

Still, there are some who might not be familiar with a plug and receptacle. If that is the case, it’s important to understand that connector plugs and receptacles were manufactured specifically for defense and military aircrafts after the 1920s. It is these connectors and receptacles that aided the MIL-SPEC and MIL-STD standards for the ones used in military operations today. Despite having an interwoven history, connector plugs and receptacles are different in form and function. A plug has prongs or connecting pins that fit into a receptacle (also known as a jack). A receptacle usually has a flange with holes so that it can be mounted to a surface. The basic difference ks that every connector plug has a mating plug receptacle and the saem vice versa,

Aviation Sourcing Solutions is your go to solution for military-grade connectors and receptacles, as well as for aviation and electronic parts. Many of our plugs meet FAA standards and when you purchase NATO connectors or plugs, or any military-grade electrical component, you can expect nothing short of perfection as our quality assurance specialists do everything int heir power to ensure that we deliver exactly what customers need. Because of our standards, our connectors have undergone extensive testing to ensure they’re resistant to corrosion, moisture, and other factors that could normally affect the product.