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Switch-socket boards, also known as multipliers or power strips, are essential electrical equipment used to connect various electrical devices. This is why they come in different varieties and configurations. Some of these types are listed here:
This variant has a single socket with an integrated switch for direct control over one connected device. The advantage here is it allows devices to be turned off without disconnecting them from the power source. This function is beneficial in reducing energy usage and increasing safety. This is also why single-socket boards are mostly used in homes, offices, and settings where only a few devices need to be plugged in at one time.
Conveniently, these types have several sockets and are great for handling multiple devices simultaneously. Most feature individual switches for each socket, allowing device-specific control. These socket boards are therefore ideal for offices and homes where connected devices, say, computers, printers, and chargers, need powering at the same time.
This kind of switch socket board incorporates USB ports into the design for direct charging of smartphones, tablets, and other gadgets. This integration, while preserving space and eliminating the need for separate adapters, is an attractive feature in modern homes and offices. Universal serial bus-integrated boards come in handy in environments where gadgets are heavily used.
Heavy duty switch boards are designed to handle larger loads. Thanks to their reinforced construction, these switchboards are suitable for industries, commercial complexes, and places with many electrical devices, like a large factory. In addition to high-load socket support, some include surge protection features to protect connected devices from voltage spikes.
These types are designed to be installed in areas where water or dust penetration is a possibility. They are supposed to be crucial in environments such as manufacturing plants, commercial kitchens, and outdoor workspaces. The additional protection extends the life of the switchboard, as well as reduces hazards, especially in areas with high humidity.
The above durability and sturdiness primarily emanate from the materials used to manufacture switchboards.
Plastics such as Polycarbonate (PC), Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS), and Polyphenylene Oxide (PPO) are commonly used to manufacture switchboards' housings and bases. These plastics possess high impact resistance and can withstand thermal loads without deforming. ABS, for instance, has a shiny finish and is tough, while PC is stronger with premium heat resistance. PC and PPO are more expensive but provide better heat and impact resistance than ABS.
Brass, copper, and silver alloys are very popular for making internal contacts and terminals of electrical switch boards because they have great conductive properties. Materials like copper and brass are preferred because they resist corrosion and hence have longevity. Silver alloys are often used in high-performance applications because they offer outstanding conductivity while also having good wear and corrosion resistance.
Switchboards use insulating materials, such as thermosetting plastics (Bakelite or Melamine) and thermoplastics, to separate different voltage areas. These materials are critical for safety since they prevent electrical faults. Thermosetting plastics are primarily used because they are heat-resistant, while thermoplastics are cheaper and easier to manufacture.
Waterproof and dustproof switchboards contain gaskets and seals made from rubber, silicone, and polyurethane. They protect the board from environmental harm by making it have an IP (Ingress Protection) rating. Silicone gaskets are more resistant to extreme temperatures and have a longer lifespan. At the same time, polyurethane seals are cost-effective and provide excellent water and dust resistance.
Switchboard cases significantly differ in commercial applications to accommodate varying electrical and operational requirements. The following is a list of the most frequently encountered scenarios:
Spaces like these have many equipment, so their boards with numerous sockets and individual switches are conveniently installed under desks and in meeting rooms. The USB port integration is handy for workers to plug in and charge mobile devices without taking extra space. It should come as no surprise that their switchboards are designed for heavy use and, thus, durable and efficient.
For clothes stores, precision and reliability define their switchboards as they power display lighting, POS systems, and other electronic equipment. Therefore, multipurpose switchboards are suitable since they offer more socket space and separate switches for lighting control, especially for display areas. Waterproof ones are also suitable for retail spaces where washing may be frequent, increasing the lifespan of the board.
Hotels and restaurants need switchboards to handle multiple devices in different areas of their facilities, from room air conditioning to kitchen appliances. That is why these boards should provide versatile socket configurations, say, standard and USB, for added convenience. Surge-protected boards are needed for this environment since they protect sensitive devices, say, computers or AV systems, giving guests a comfortable experience.
Schools and colleges have a variety of electrical devices. Thus, a multipoint switchboard that could support several devices would go great in auditoriums, classrooms, and libraries. Switchboards with individual socket switches are also effective in these places since they will have control over AV systems and projectors.
Hospitals and clinics need switchboards with good switch-withstand capacity because they continuously have critical medical equipment. Only heavy-duty switchboards are suitable for this environment, where a huge number of machines needs to be connected without overheating. Waterproof boards are valuable in hospitals since they allow cleaning without compromising the socket board.
It is then important to choose the right switch socket board in any given commercial or residential setting since several factors influence its efficiency, safety, and longevity. The following is a list of crucial factors to consider:
The above basically means the number of devices connected at a time and their total power consumption. Switchboards mainly have heavy-duty socket boards that suffice in commercial spaces where many devices, say, computers or industrial equipment, are connected. Standard household ones are more than equipped for light usage. In any case, a switchboard with the necessary load capacity will avoid overheating and will not cause a short circuit.
More sockets mean more devices can be connected simultaneously, eliminating the need for extra adapters or boards. Offices and schools require multipoint switchboards with more sockets, whereas homes can do with just one or two. A USB-integrated socket is also a plus, as it will eliminate the need for extra adaptors when charging portable gadgets.
Switchboards with built-in surge protection are great for protecting electronic devices from voltage surges or spikes. These boards are particularly essential in environments with sensitive equipment, like data centres, hospitals, and media production houses. Some heavy-duty switchboards also have surge protection, making them suitable in situations where power quality fluctuates.
Manufacturing facilities, outdoor work areas, and even commercial kitchens should consider IP-rated (Ingress Protection) switchboards. These boards are made of waterproof materials that prevent entry into electrical components. This feature greatly reduces the likelihood of electrical shorts and enhances the switchboard lifespan. IP65 or higher-rated boards are often the most effective in these environments.
It should be noted that a switchboard's durability and performance heavily depend on the materials of its construction. Switchboards with housings made of thermoplastics, for example, polycarbonate or ABS, will have better impact resistance and will be able to withstand prolonged heat exposure. In addition, brass or copper contacts provide better electrical conductivity and, therefore, better performance.
Switchboards distribute power to several devices, and surge protectors block voltage spikes from damaging these devices, which may have a lower threshold for this. This is important in commercial spaces with sensitive electronics, like data centres and hospitals, as voltage spikes can cause malfunction or even permanent damage. Surge protectors increase the lifespan of connected equipment and decrease downtime from power surge-related issues.
The number of devices needing to be connected and their types determines how many sockets are needed. Both home and office have versatile needs. A USB-integrated socket will make the requirement even easier because, instead of carrying an extra adaptor for portable devices, one can simply plug them into the board and charge them. Simply put, the more sockets there are, the more convenient it is since more devices can be plugged in at once.
Thermoplastics, such as ABS and polycarbonates, are the most used materials for developing switchboards because of their impact resistance and ability to withstand prolonged heating. These plastics have durable finishes that make cleaning and maintaining them easy. For this reason, thermoplastics are ideal for environments with frequent use, such as offices and schools.
If users frequently experience overloads, tripped breakers, or damaged sockets, switching to a heavy-duty switchboard is highly recommended. These two can handle higher electrical loads since they are engineered to distribute power more effectively across many devices. For commercial users who have a workstation with many connected devices or industrial equipment, using a heavy-duty board is advantageous. That means increased reliability and possibly a longer board lifespan.
