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What is Socket

Horace He

Last Updated: December 26, 2023

What is Socket

In a light bulb, a socket is a device specifically designed to securely hold an electric light bulb and establish an electrical connection with circuit wires. Its primary function is to deliver electricity to the bulb, enabling it to emit light. Typically constructed from durable materials like metal or phenolic, a socket consists of various components that facilitate the flow of power to the bulb.

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A socket features a metal tab located at its base, serving as the connection point for the circuit wires. The Hot wire, responsible for carrying the electrical current, is connected to this metal tab, allowing the power to flow into the bulb. On the other hand, the Neutral wire is connected to the metal threads of the socket where the bulb is screwed in, thereby completing the electrical circuit.

There are different socket sizes commonly used in traditional incandescent lighting. These include the candelabra (E-12) base, typically found in chandelier bulbs and vintage Christmas lighting, the standard Edison or Medium (E-26) base, widely used in regular incandescent light bulbs, the intermediate (E-17) base, less commonly used for interior lamps, and the mogul base, primarily utilized for larger bulbs in vintage floor lamps.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What Does A19 Bulb Mean

An “A” bulb is known for its traditional light bulb shape, often described as resembling an inverted pear. The two numbers following the letter indicate the bulb’s diameter at its widest point, measured in eighths of an inch. Consequently, an A19 bulb has a diameter of approximately 2.4 inches, which is equivalent to 19 divided by 8 inches.

Is A19 and E26 the Same

All A19 lamps are equipped with an E26 base, but it is not true for all E26 lamps to be A19. The specifications for A19 light bulbs require them to have an E26 screw base, meaning that every A19 light bulb also has an E26 base.

What Is the Standard Light Socket Called

The standard light socket is commonly known as the Edison screw (ES). This type of socket was invented by Thomas Edison in 1881 and was later licensed under General Electric’s Mazda trademark in 1909.

How Do I Identify a Light Socket

The shape or form of the base is indicated by the first letter, while the width of the base is represented by the number (usually in millimeters). For instance, our 11S14 bulb has an E26 base, where “E” denotes the Edison screw-in style and 26 signifies a base width of 26 mm.

What Are the Different Types of Sockets for Lights

There are two main types of sockets for lights, namely the classic screw socket (Edison) and the pin socket. It is worth noting that these sockets can be replaced without the need for any mechanical or electrical adjustments.

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