Wiring Device
Wiring devices are current-carrying electrical or
electronic products that serve primarily as a connection or control
point for electrical circuits within a range of 0–400 amperes, 0–600
volts (AC and DC), and AC/DC (660 watts, 1,000 volts AC fluorescent) as
well as certain non-current-carrying wiring devices and supplies.
Wiring devices include:
- Convenience plugs and power outlets (plugs and receptacles)
- Connector bodies and flanged outlets
- Cover plates
- General-use switches and dimmers
- Lampholders (incandescent, fluorescent, cold cathode, neon, quartz lamps, and others)
- Lighting control devices
- Motion sensing and timer switches
- Receptacles
- Switch, outlet, FM/TV, blank, and telephone plates
- Undercarpet premise wiring systems
Products include receptacle-type arc-fault circuit interrupters (AFCIs),
protection devices that can detect an unintended electrical arc and
disconnect the power before the arc starts a fire. AFCI technology in
residential and commercial buildings is an important electrical safety
device.
NEMA Members develop and maintain Standards related to wiring devices to aid in marketing.