There are 18 different plug patterns used around the world. In addition, different countries use ac mains voltages and frequencies unlike those of North America, part of South America, and a few other countries that run on 60 Hz.
Recent rectangular connector designs overcome many of the mechanical and electrical problems engineers and technicians run into connecting hardware for live performances
The Profibus- DP five-pole connector from Lumberg Automation, Midlothian, Va. (lumberg-automationusa.com), is easy enough to install that technicians can do so in the field with simple tools.
Engineers at Tyco Electronics, Harrisburg, Pa., put an Amodel polyphthalamide (PPA) material in a power control module connector that mounts in an auto-engine bay.
The M8 pug connectors from Phoenix Contact Inc., Harrisburg, Pa. (www.phoenixcon.com), use Piercecon technology in which electrical contact is made by inserting sharpened connectors directly into the wire.
Ultrasmall connectors for the Sumo behind-the-ear hearing aid reportedly boost output power with less distortion and dramatically increase low-frequency amplification.
