Type A
Type A is a two-pin ungrounded plug with flat parallel blades. It's one of the most common plug types in North America, Central America, and parts of Asia. The plug was originally developed in the United States in 1904 by Harvey Hubbell II.
Technical Specifications
Pin Dimensions
History
The Type A plug was patented by Harvey Hubbell II in 1904. It became the standard in the United States and eventually spread to countries under American influence. While still widely used, it's gradually being replaced by the grounded Type B plug for safety reasons.
Safety Features
Type A plugs are not polarized in most countries, meaning they can be inserted either way. They lack a grounding pin, which provides less protection against electrical shock. Many modern safety standards require grounded outlets, making Type A less common in new installations.
Compatibility
Type A plugs can fit into Type B outlets (which have an additional grounding hole). However, Type B plugs cannot fit into Type A outlets due to the grounding pin.
Travel Tips
- ✓Most modern electronics have dual-voltage chargers (100-240V), so you typically only need a plug adapter, not a voltage converter
- ✓Type A outlets in Japan may be slightly different, with both slots being the same size
- ✓Consider bringing a Type A to Type B adapter if you have grounded devices
- ✓Some older buildings may only have Type A outlets without grounding
Regions
Countries(37)
Other Plug Types
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Type A power plug?
Type A is a two-pin ungrounded plug with flat parallel blades. It's one of the most common plug types in North America, Central America, and parts of Asia. The plug was originally developed in the United States in 1904 by Harvey Hubbell II.
Which countries use Type A plugs?
Type A plugs are used in 37+ countries, primarily in North America, Central America, Caribbean, Parts of South America, Parts of Asia. Popular countries include Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Bolivia, Cambodia.
Is Type A a grounded plug?
No, Type A is an ungrounded plug with 2 pins. It's designed for double-insulated devices and doesn't provide earth protection.
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