It looks like you're using an Ad Blocker.
Please white-list or disable AboveTopSecret.com in your ad-blocking tool.
Thank you.
Some features of ATS will be disabled while you continue to use an ad-blocker.
originally posted by: DISRAELI
a reply to: saint4God
Is this an American thing? I'm on the other side of the Atlantic, and I've never seen anything like that picture.
originally posted by: worldstarcountry
a reply to: saint4God
Most antique lamps/electronics that have original plugs have no holes in the plugs. I had one recently. I am going to watch this video though as now I am curious why the holes appeared.
Ok watched it. The holes are strictly optional and for efficient manufacturing purposes only. I had a feeling, but thanks for confirming it.
originally posted by: Ravenwatcher
originally posted by: surfer_soul
a reply to: DISRAELI
The real mystery is why in the U.K. we have 3 pins and an extra wire we call earth/ground when other countries just use the negative wire as ground?
originally posted by: gb540
The holes also function as detent locks to help keep the plug, plugged.
Antique radios liked to use resistor power cords and were aptly nicknamed "curtain burners". I suppose a side effect of not having the holes, is one probably wanted the plug to fall out if someone wasn't in the room watching for fire!
originally posted by: F2d5thCavv2
originally posted by: DISRAELI
a reply to: saint4God
Is this an American thing? I'm on the other side of the Atlantic, and I've never seen anything like that picture.
Dis, believe me, the feeling is mutual when an American sees a British "mains connection" for the first time
Cheers
Some electrical devices also come "factory-sealed" or "locked-out" by the manufacturer with a plastic tie inserted through one or both of the prong holes. Construction projects or industrial safety requirements may call for this type of sealing. For example, a manufacturer might apply a plastic band through the hole and attach it to a tag that says, "You must do 'X' before plugging in this device." The user cannot plug in the device without removing the tag, so they are sure to see the instructions.
There may also be a small savings in raw materials (metal) for the manufacturer of the actual plug prong.