Type A electrical cord plug uses two flat metal prongs. Its application is mainly on the devices that do not require ground connection such as small radios. Contrary to the earlier designs that had both prongs of similar size, modifications on the neutral prong have been made. These modifications ensure that the plug can be inserted only one way into the socket. The type A cord plug is used in countries such as the Bahamas, Brazil, Niger and Venezuela.
The type B plug has two flat metal prongs just as the Type A plug, but a round prong for grounding purposes is also present. In all cases, the earth prong is longer than the other two prongs. This ensures the appliance is grounded before it is connected to the power supply. This type of plug is mainly used in Canada, where it is called CSA 22.2, Nº42, and the United States, where it is referred to as NEMA 5-15.
The type C cord plug is commonly referred to as the Euro plug. This type of ungrounded plug has two pins, one for neutral and one for live. The two pins of the plug are rounded and appear to come together slightly. Type C plug is used for appliances that require 2.5 amperes or less. Countries that use this type of plug include Argentina, Angola, Germany, Denmark, Norway, Sweden and Switzerland.
The type D plug has three round prongs arranged in a triangular manner. Modifications on this type of power plug has lead to it being phased out by the Type M. Countries that were originally electrified by British often have this type of plug. Examples of these countries are Ethiopia, Iraq and Kenya.
The type G power plug has three rectangular prongs that form a rectangular shape. This type of plug has a fuse incorporated within to protect the code because of the high electric current involved. This type of plug is used in Kenya, Malawi, Uganda, Pakistan, the United Kingdom and Ireland.
The type M plug is used to describe the 15-ampere type D plug.