What is Plug Type B?
While Plug Type B bears a close resemblance to Type A in design, there are some slight variations. Both plugs have the two oppositely-angled pins and an equivalent charge and voltage.
Plug Type B though comes with an extra grounding terminal. As you can imagine, this greatly improves the safety of the plug and increases efficiency.
On top of that, it reduces the chances of polarity reversal, which can lead to short circuits.
As an added security measure, the ground pin is a little longer than the other two. That means the earth terminal will touch the socket before any live wires do.
Type B plugs are quickly becoming the preferred method of choice in America due to their reduction of the likelihood for electrical shocks.
What countries use Plug Type B?
Plug Type B is mostly found in North America, Mexico, and a few other Central American countries. It’s also the plug of choice for many Caribbean nations.
In Europe, though, it’s far less common, but not completely unheard of.
List of all countries that use plug type B around the world:
- United States
- Canada
- Mexico
- Costa Rica
- Panama
- Antigua/Barbuda
- Dominica
- Dominican Republic
- Grenada
- Jamaica
- Saint Kitts and Nevis
- Saint Lucia
- Trinidad and Tobago
- Argentina
- Ecuador
- Peru
- Venezuela
Where did Plug Type B come from?
Plug Type B was introduced in the mid-1950s as an improved version of Plug Type A. It was designed to provide better safety and more efficient energy distribution than its predecessor.
Since then, it has become increasingly popular across the American continent for its convenience and reliability. Of all the plug types available today, Plug Type B is one of the most versatile, being used in household appliances as well as industrial settings.
Can I get a Plug Type B travel adapter?
Yes! To use your appliances and gadgets from home abroad, you will need a Plug Type B travel adapter. This is an inexpensive device that allows you to safely plug in any appliance or gadget with the correct socket type into a power outlet in another country.
To ensure a safe connection and avoid potential hazards, always make sure you get a quality travel adapter compatible with Plug Type B. Be sure to read the instructions on how to use it correctly and always double-check that you have connected it properly before plugging in your appliances.