12v receptacle

[Electric-T]

Ill just jump right to the question. Is there a good reason no one uses a standard double prong receptacle with 12v applications? The only standard receptacle that i know is used for 12v is a cigarette lighter in a car. Or atleast it looks like one. Havent we moved on to a more standard looking receptacle yet? Could a 12v circuit be wired to a double prong receptacle?

 

[kellys_eye]

Polarisation basically. To allow a double-pronged connector you have to ensure it can only be inserted one way or fit some 'steering' device (a bridge rectifier will do it) to prevent misconnection.

But a BR means additional cost and power losses so it isn't done.

 

[Electric-T]

I feel like if something was manufactured with one prong positioned 90° relative to the other that would prevent misconnection. But in this instance the wires would be connected strait to the prongs

 

[Externet]

What would prevent a 'genius' to plug a 120VAC TV to a 'standard' outlet providing 12VDC ?

Use ----> https://www.canford.co.uk/Images/ItemImages/large/43-621_01.jpg

Or, ----> https://sharehim.org/php/images/technical/socket_I.jpg

Or, pick your flavor ----> http://0.tqn.com/w/experts/Electrical-Wiring-Home-1734/2008/09/chart.gif

As this goofy type can be reversed :
----> http://media.digikey.com/Photos/Pomona Photos/4543-0.jpg
----> http://media.digikey.com/Photos/Pomona Photos/1286.JPG

 

[Electric-T]

What would prevent a 'genius' to plug a 120VAC TV to a 'standard' outlet providing 12VDC ?

This is why i mentioned one prong being positioned 90 degrees relative to the other

 

[Minder]

If needing simple polarized 2 pin connectors that are high current, the RC suppliers have them, there is a small selection of different types, the XT60 is a popular one.
M.

 

[Externet]

XT60 are not for wall plate mount.

 

[Alec_t]

I feel like if something was manufactured with one prong positioned 90° relative to the other that would prevent misconnection.

Indeed. But then it wouldn't fit a standard 2-prong receptacle, which is what your question is about.

 

[Minder]

The OP did not mention wall mount.
You can get RV/Marine panel mount outlets.
M.

 

[Electric-T]

This is really just a discussion at this point. If i find a good one i may use it on one of my upcoming renewable energy projects

 

[Tha fios agaibh]

Ill just jump right to the question. Is there a good reason no one uses a standard double prong receptacle with 12v applications? The only standard receptacle that i know is used for 12v is a cigarette lighter in a car. Or atleast it looks like one. Havent we moved on to a more standard looking receptacle yet? Could a 12v circuit be wired to a double prong receptacle?

Yes, because Nema design specifically rates receptacle outlets for current, voltage, and system configuration. So, No you can't legally (or ethically) use a 120vac outlet for 12vdc.
Externet made an excellent point. People will plug in anything that will fit into the receptacle and create a potential hazard.

The main reason DC is rarely wired to receptacle outlets is because most appliances are AC. If they are DC, use a receptacle that matches the plug used on the appliance. This is usually the cigarette lighter type.

 

[Electric-T]

Well maybe one day someone will create a more attractive looking receptacle. Just thought id bring it up

 

[Irv]

It's not really about attractiveness, it's about safety and reliability. Any kid will find a coin which fits into a cig. outlet in less than 10 seconds.
And having to wiggle and twist plugs to make a good, reliable contact is often a problem, as well. Not much bother if all you want is to light a cigarette, but not so good if you want to plug in an inverter or something. So, I would have to agree that the existing outlets are far from ideal.

 

[Electric-T]

It's not really about attractiveness, it's about safety and reliability. Any kid will find a coin which fits into a cig. outlet in less than 10 seconds.
And having to wiggle and twist plugs to make a good, reliable contact is often a problem, as well. Not much bother if all you want is to light a cigarette, but not so good if you want to plug in an inverter or something. So, I would have to agree that the existing outlets are far from ideal.

I like the look of those "double barrel" plug that are usually on a dc power supply. Its a secure connection and they seem to be long lasting with getting too damaged over the years.