Why are my power cords different?

[semenza]

As a side note - I've never noticed this and checked all my tools - and none have the other notch including the sander and 1100w router.

So maybe just an American phenomenon (I'm in the UK)?

Is there a reason whey the battery chargers don't use plug it cables? Would be handy I think. I love the plug-it concept - it makes the tools almost as convenient as cordless a lot of the time. Plus it makes me use the vac .

Yup, its a NA thing. Though there are some additional  Plug-It receptacle configurations outside NA.  Different from either of the NA cords.

Seth

 

[gkaiseril]

I expect it is more than North America. Canada and the U.S. have different safety standards and certifications. There are power connectors that are industry specific, application specific, along with those for voltage and amperage combinations.

North America Power Cords

UK Power Cords

European Power Cords

The Festool tool power socket and plug are unique to Festool which maybe required by government legislation or just Festools way of matching the power level a cord can support to the tool but allow for a power tool with a smaller power demand use the cord intended for a tool with a larger power demand.

Many tools come with instructions about extension cords and power loads. How many users comply with the guide lines. It is possible to use an extension cord or power cord with a lower power rating than the load or tool demand for a short period of time with no noticeable  issued but long term use or prolonged use could result with the cord's insulation failing and the resulting dangerous condition of possible fire or bare live wires.

It is nice that there is some international standard for the power delivery end of the cord for products that can support multiple voltage levels like power bricks, computers, cell phones, etc one only needs to buy a new  power cord and not a whole device.