ECN Forum Forums General Topics of the Trade Non-US Electrical Systems & Trades Lamp cord end configuration

What is the proper cord end configuration for a table lamp which will be shipped to Germany?

Does that Country use a 240 Volt, ungrounded system?

Frank

Frank,

Assuming that the lamp is double-insulated (class II) and doesn't require a ground, then the standard plug would be type CEE 7-XVI {click for picture}.

If by any chance the lamp needs to be grounded, then it would be the standard German "Schuko" connector, type CEE 7-VII . This has ground contacts on the side of the plug.

Both plugs are non-polarized, and I believe that to conform to German safety regulations the cord must be double-insulated (i.e. you couldn't use American SPT type cord). This might not apply to a private one-of deal -- I'm not sure.

I've also found a U.S. supplier for foreign cords here:
www.intlcordsets.com

Standard wall outlets are 220 or 230V with one pole grounded (standard distribution is 220/380 or 230/400V wye).

Excellent information. Thank you!

One addition: standard zip cord is listed for "light duty use, such as table lamps, electric clocks, office equipment" in Germany and Austria but highly uncommon now. Typical cord is flat and double-insulated.