prong vs. pole 17:39 Oct 30, 2011
a prong is a physical pin whereas a pole is a single electrical signal. For example, the German Schuko plug (Stecker) has 2 prongs but 3 poles (Phase, Neutral and Earth) - in some variations, there is a 3rd prong (pin) in the socket (Steckdose) - that mates with a "hole" in the plug.
The 3.5 mm audio banana plug is physically ONE prong - but supports 3 or 4 electrical circuits (poles) - common (ground), earphone left, earphone right and a microphone in the 4-pole version. |