SchukoBuchse

SchukoBuchse is the German term for a Schuko socket. Schuko is a registered trademark for a standardized type of AC power socket and plug used in many European countries. The name "Schuko" is derived from the German words "Schutzkontakt," meaning protective contact. This refers to the presence of grounding contacts on both the plug and the socket, which are crucial for safety.

The Schuko system is designed to accommodate both earthed and unearthed plugs. It features two round contacts for the live and neutral wires and a separate grounding contact system consisting of two sprung clips on the sides of the socket and corresponding grooves on the sides of the plug. This design allows for a secure connection and provides protection against electric shock by connecting the appliance's metal casing to the earth.

Schuko sockets are rated for a maximum current of 16 amperes and a voltage of 250 volts. They are widely used in Germany, Austria, the Netherlands, Sweden, Norway, Finland, Portugal, and many Eastern European countries. While the system is generally safe and widely adopted, it has a limitation in that it does not provide protection against incorrect plug insertion for appliances that require specific polarization. Despite this, Schuko remains a dominant standard in many regions due to its robust design and widespread availability.