If you work in the IT, construction, events or manufacturing industry, you may have heard of a “Commando Socket” or “Commando Plug”. But what exactly is a Commando Socket, and what is it used for?
In this article, Comms Express will explore what a Commando Socket is, how it differs from other types of sockets, and what it’s used for.
What is a Commando Socket/Plug?
A Commando Socket is a type of electrical socket and plug that is commonly used in industrial environments, such as construction sites, factories, and events. It is also sometimes referred to as a “Ceeform” or “IEC 60309” socket or plug, after the international standard that governs its design.
The Commando Socket is typically larger and more robust than a standard household socket, and it is designed to handle higher voltages and currents. It has a distinctive appearance, with three or four pins arranged in a circular pattern, and a locking mechanism that prevents accidental disconnection.
How is a Commando Socket different from other sockets?
One of the key differences between a Commando Socket and other types of sockets is its design. The circular shape of the socket and plug allows for a secure and stable connection, even in harsh or demanding environments. The pins on a Commando Socket are also larger and more durable than those on a standard household socket, which helps to reduce the risk of damage or wear and tear.
Another important difference between a Commando Socket and other types of sockets is its electrical rating. Commando Sockets are designed to handle higher voltages and currents than household sockets, making them ideal for industrial and commercial applications. They are also more resistant to moisture, dust, and other environmental factors, which makes them suitable for use in outdoor and challenging environments.
What is a Commando Socket used for?
A Commando Socket is used for a wide range of industrial and commercial applications, including:
- Powering heavy machinery and equipment, such as generators, compressors, and welding machines
- Providing temporary power at construction sites and events
- Connecting power to shipping containers and portable buildings
- Supplying power to caravans, boats, and other recreational vehicles
- Charging electric vehicles
Because of their robust design and high electrical rating, Commando Sockets are a reliable and safe choice for these types of applications. They are also designed to be easy to install and maintain, which helps to reduce downtime and increase productivity.
Why are commando sockets used on PDU’s?
Commando sockets are commonly used on Power Distribution Units (PDUs) in data centers, server rooms, and other industrial environments for several reasons:
- High Current Rating: Commando sockets have a high current rating, typically up to 32 amps, which makes them suitable for distributing power to high-power equipment and devices. PDUs are designed to provide power to multiple devices simultaneously, and the high current rating of Commando sockets allows them to handle the demand from multiple devices at once.
- Durability: Commando sockets are designed to be durable and robust, making them ideal for use in industrial and commercial environments. PDUs are often installed in areas where they may be exposed to moisture, dust, and other environmental factors, and the robust design of Commando sockets makes them more resistant to damage.
- Secure Connection: Commando sockets have a locking mechanism that ensures a secure connection between the socket and the plug. This prevents accidental disconnection of the plug, which can be particularly important in critical applications such as data centers.
- Compatibility: Commando sockets are an international standard, which means that they are compatible with a wide range of equipment and devices. This makes them a versatile choice for PDUs, as they can be used to power a range of equipment, including servers, networking equipment, and storage devices.
Overall, Commando sockets are a popular choice for PDUs because of their high current rating, durability, secure connection, and compatibility with a wide range of equipment. They provide a reliable and efficient solution for distributing power to multiple devices in industrial and commercial environments.
How Fast Does A Commando Socket Charge?
The charging speed of a Commando Socket depends on a few factors, such as the voltage and current of the socket, the charging capacity of the device being charged, and the condition of the charging cable.
Typically, a Commando Socket can provide a charging speed of up to 32 amps, which is the maximum current rating of the socket. However, the actual charging speed will vary depending on the device being charged and its charging capabilities.
For example, an electric vehicle with a charging capacity of 7.2 kW will charge at a rate of approximately 29-30 miles per hour using a 32-amp Commando Socket. On the other hand, a device with a lower charging capacity, such as a mobile phone or a laptop, will charge much faster using a Commando Socket than a standard household socket.
It’s worth noting that the charging speed of a Commando Socket can also be affected by the condition of the charging cable. A damaged or worn cable may not be able to provide the full charging capacity of the socket, which could result in slower charging speeds.
In general, if you’re looking for a fast and reliable charging solution for your high-power devices or equipment, a Commando Socket can provide a safe and efficient option. However, it’s important to ensure that your device is compatible with the socket and that you use a high-quality charging cable to achieve optimal charging speeds.
Using 16 or 32 Amp Commando Connections
Power distribution units in demanding environments often use 16 or 32 amp commando connections. These input connectors are based on the British standard and originated with the MK Commando brand. A variety of PDU models are available which have compatibility with these commando plug types.
 16 Amp Commando A Commando input type rated for 16 amps can be used with a PDU that distributes power to meet many industrial needs. |
 32 Amp Commando A Commando input type rated is better suited with a PDU that distributes power in professional IT environments. |
Conclusion
In summary, a Commando Socket is a type of electrical socket and plug that is commonly used in industrial and commercial environments. It is designed to be durable, reliable, and safe, and it is used for a wide range of applications, from powering heavy machinery to charging electric vehicles. If you work in an industry that requires high-quality electrical connections, a Commando Socket may be the right choice for your needs.
View our range of Data Centre Power Distribution available at Comms Express
Single Commando 32amp Plug – Dual Commando 16amp Socket Adapter
