An Edison Connector is a male, parallel-blade electrical plug design commonly used to connect equipment to standard alternating current power sources.
The Edison Connector refers to a plug configuration based on the parallel-blade design originally standardized in North America for general-purpose AC power delivery. While the form factor is widely recognized, within commercial and industrial environments the term is most often used to describe power connections for portable equipment, temporary power distribution, and non-locking power interfaces used in controlled settings.
The connector typically consists of two flat parallel blades that carry line and neutral conductors. Some versions also include a third grounding pin to provide a dedicated equipment ground. The presence or absence of the ground pin depends on the specific configuration and application. In professional AV, broadcast, and staging environments, Edison Connectors are frequently referenced when distinguishing non-locking power connections from twist-lock or pin-and-sleeve alternatives.
Because the Edison Connector is non-locking, it is generally associated with applications where ease of connection and disconnection is prioritized over mechanical retention. In commercial and industrial workflows, this makes it suitable for portable equipment, testing setups, temporary power feeds, and controlled-access environments where connections are routinely monitored. Its simple construction also contributes to widespread compatibility across power distribution devices, power strips, and equipment power supplies designed for standard voltage ranges.
From an electrical standpoint, the Edison Connector is designed for single-phase AC power and supports a defined current and voltage range depending on its specific rating. Its widespread adoption has made it a common reference point in documentation, equipment specifications, and system planning discussions, even when alternative connector types are ultimately used for permanent or mission-critical connections.
Also known as an Edison plug.
Commonly referred to as a parallel blade connector.
Edison Connector designs are governed and evaluated under guidelines established by organizations such as UL, NEC, and NEMA, which define dimensional, electrical, and safety requirements for power connectors used in commercial and industrial electrical systems.
The Edison Connector traces its origins to early electrical distribution systems developed in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, when standardized plugs were needed to support the growing use of electrically powered equipment. Named after Thomas Edison, whose work helped popularize electrical infrastructure, the connector became a baseline design that influenced numerous power connection standards. Over time, it remained relevant due to its simplicity and broad compatibility.