Using duly standardized electrical attachments provides several benefits. Notably, it lets you achieve compliance in the workplace and avoid incurring penalties for code violations.
Standardized cables also come with quality and safety assurance. Whether it’s an indoor or outdoor extension cord, you can connect the wire to your electrical equipment with the peace of mind that it has been professionally examined and approved.
However, it’s prudent to understand the organization that standardizes certain electrical cables before purchasing such wires.
NEMA and Zhaga are the two most popular institutions that publish the standards for sockets used in the lighting industry. The two organizations define the right interfaces and specifications that LED-based luminaries should contain.
This blog compares NEMA and Zhaga standards to highlight which is suitable for your electrical needs.
What Is NEMA?
The National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA) is an organization that formulates and publishes standards for the manufacture of electrical and medical imaging equipment.
NEMA’s overarching objective is to foster the safety and compatibility of all electrical accessories manufactured within its jurisdictions of influence. By standardizing electrical products, the organization also seeks to maintain a level playing field in one of the world’s most lucrative industries.
NEMA plug types are famous for their high performance and longer durability. Proper care and maintenance allow such plugs to last several years longer than conventional cables.
The same is true for NEMA receptacles, which typically come in different designs depending on the intended applications.
What Is Zhaga?
Zhaga is one of NEMA’s chief rivals. The organization aims to standardize the interface and specifications among various LED-based luminaries and light engines, including LED modules and drivers.
Electrical manufacturers can rely on Zhaga standards to produce efficient and compatible LED components.
Zhaga’s specifications are commonly known as Books. They address various aspects that affect the interoperability of electrical, thermal, and mechanical components.
Differences Between NEMA and Zhaga Standards
1. Origin and Jurisdiction
NEMA standards originated from North America. These guidelines were derived from section C136.41 of the American National Standard for Lighting Systems (ANSI).
NEMA’s jurisdictions of influence span North America and various Anglo-Saxon regions, including the United Kingdom, Australia, and New Zealand.
Zhaga is a new entrant in the standardization market for lighting applications. The organization originated in Europe, where its guidelines enjoy widespread acceptance.
Zhaga is also the de facto standard for LED lighting applications in most countries, with the United States being its latest adopter.
2. Controller Size
NEMA controllers typically require more components than Zhaga controllers. That explains why such controllers are considerably larger in size.
Due to their bigger size, NEMA controllers tend to be sophisticated and bulky. As such, they’re banned in South Korea and are unpopular in many European countries.
Zhaga controllers are smaller and more compact, blending seamlessly into street lighting fixtures. That’s regardless if such components use an AC or DC circuit.
3. Electrical Contacts
NEMA controllers and receptacles generally utilize 3-pin, 5-pin, or 7-pin contacts. The contacts perform different functions, including voltage and dimming.
NEMA 5-15R is one of the most common NEMA receptacles you’ll come across. The numerals (5-15) denote the device’s amperage, while the R stands for “receptacle.” You may also find lighting fixtures labeled NEMA 5-15P and NEMA 6-20P. Such cables have a current rating of 15 and 20, respectively, with the ‘P’ denoting plugs.
Zhaga controllers and sockets use 4-pin contacts that also perform different functions.
4. Voltage Ratings
Besides the variance in quantity, NEMA and Zhaga contacts also differ in their voltage ratings.
NEMA contracts often include a high-voltage line that requires extra protection to minimize the risk of shocks or electrocutions.
Zhaga contacts do not feature high-voltage lines, which makes them safer.
5. Auxiliary Support
NEMA receptacles and controllers are more susceptible to power losses and instability. That’s because they’re designed to derive auxiliary power from the LED driver located on the 7-pin contact, which isn’t supported by many LED drivers and sensors.
In contrast, Zhaga controllers avail auxiliary power from the LED drivers located on their 1-pins. Most LED drivers and sensors support this arrangement, making Zhaga LED modules more dynamic.
6. Interoperability
NEMA standards allow manufacturers to design and test electric cords that meet the predefined guidelines of specific product types. This can diminish the interoperability between products.
Meanwhile, Zhaga focuses on various LED lighting components, from modules to drivers, optics, etc. This broad-spectrum approach enhances the interchangeability between different components as long as they meet Zhaga’s specifications.
7. Dimming Support
NEMA receptacles and controllers are mostly compatible with analog dimming (0-10V/1-10V). That makes them considerably less reliable when calculating power output and consumption.
While these components may work with the more accurate DALI communication, they’ll require extra wiring components to function optimally.
On the other hand, Zhaga sockets and controllers are by default compatible with DALI communication. Those include DALI-2, D4i, and DT6 LED drivers. Others are DT7 and DT8 drivers.
The Bottom Line
Both NEMA and Zhaga standards can suit your electrical needs. It all depends on what you’re looking for. The trick is to understand the size and scope of the intended lighting projects before choosing either standard.
Energy efficiency, durability, and safety are other critical factors when deciding between a NEMA and Zhaga power strip. If you’re looking for lighting components that blend seamlessly with your interior décor, then you might consider aesthetics as well.