Key Features & Typical Use
Type F, the Continental Standard
Schuko is the first option in project documentation for EU regions since it is the most popular grounded plug standard in continental Europe. You can identify a Schuko plug easily: it has a round shape, features two round sockets, and the connection to ground is not fulfilled by a third pin; instead, the grounding is done through two metal contact springs which push against the sides of the plug.
Earth Where It Matters
Earth contact systems allow the Schuko style plug to make its earth connection before the current pins connect, which provides at an advantage for metal appliances. However, from a practical point of view, the Schuko plug can theoretically be just plugged into a socket without earth contact. Therefore, the socket type must match the appliances that will actually be connected to it.
Contacts That Hold Their Grip
All of the socket contacts in this case are made of phosporcuprous alloy, which has the spring characteristics needed to ensure that contact pressure is constant during repeated insertions of plugs. A socket that loses its grip is the leading reason for replacing wall sockets, which means that the material of contacts becomes more important over the entire life of the outlet than on the day of its installation.
Part of a Modular Plate
The socket is an 80 mm x 80 mm module that is compatible with every E10 frame, irrespective of the number of gangs. This enables uniformity in the aesthetic of a project with respect to lighting, power, and data outlet sockets. As a result, the Schuko socket can be combined with French sockets, USB connection plug sockets, or switch modules on the same frame that serves users with different types of connectors.
Specifications
| Series | E10 EU standard series |
|---|---|
| Item Code | E10-016 |
| Description | Schuko socket module (Type F) |
| Socket Format | Schuko (Type F, 2P+E), 16A |
| Module Size | 80 x 80mm |
| Rated Current / Voltage | 16A 250V~ |
| Earth Provision | Side earth contacts (Type F / CEE 7/3) |
| Installation | Flush mounting |
| Housing Material | PC (polycarbonate) |
| Internal Contacts | Phosphor copper |
| Frame Options | 1 to 5 gang, horizontal or vertical (E10-044 to E10-048) |
| Packaging | Finished product packaging, or module + frame packaging |
E10-016 – The Schuko Outlet as a Specified Module
The Schuko socket is what a German or Austrian or Dutch project would expect, and it is often the first form that is also being referred to in a European standards document because it is a solution for so many different scenarios. By purchasing an 80mm by 80mm module rather than a finished plate, the project will retain its flexibility as the same housing is available as a Schuko socket version with a USB port (E10-018, E10-019) or with a waterproof cover (E10-022). Hence, if a position will need to be functioning differently in the future, only the module needs to be changed, while the plate remains the same.
When a distributor stocks plain Schuko modules, it allows them to maintain a small inventory while achieving a large market coverage by offering its customers a single housing, a single framework, and numerous functionalities. The only thing the distributor needs to check when making an order is the grounding type: Type F Schuko for those countries with Type F grounding, Type E for French type grounding, and ungrounded option when double insulation appliances dominate.
Factory-Direct OEM / ODM Manufacturer
We Manufacture, You Brand
EU socket tooling in-house · PC moulding and phosphor copper contacts · OEM branding
- OEM branding – logo on the plate, custom carton and instruction sheet.
- ODM options – socket format, USB option, plate colour, frame layout and packaging.
- Testing – function and electrical tests recorded for each production batch.
- MOQ – flexible per item; confirmed with the quotation for your configuration.
Buying Guide
- Confirm the destination markets and whether Type F is the socket format specified there.
- Decide whether the position needs a plain socket, a USB version or a version with a waterproof cover.
- Count the socket positions and group them into frames, using multi gang frames where positions sit together.
- Confirm the plate colour and finish against the rest of the installation.
- Choose the supply format: finished plates, or modules plus frames for local assembly.
- Approve a sample module and confirm quantities and configuration with our team.
How We Support Your Business
OEM / ODM
Custom housing colours, module combinations, frame designs and retail package are based on our original EU wiring devices installation for your logo on the plate and carton on the pallet.
Custom moulding · Branded packaging · Private label
Wholesale
Factory-direct pricing with a flexible MOQ per product allows you to mix modules, frames and finishes in one container for importers, wholesalers and retail chains.
Factory pricing · Mixed models · Container loading
Distributor Support
Account management, market-specific socket format advice and priority production slots for channel partners building a European wiring device range.
Account manager · Market advice · Priority lead times
Ready to Order the E10-016?
Please provide us with details regarding destination markets and the number of socket positions and we shall quote factory terms for factory manufactured Schuko socket module in compliance with European standard and having USB and covered design.
Contact Our Sales Team
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Schuko socket?
Schuko is the earth socket as per German standard. In the Schuko system, the type F socket has an earth pin and two round active pins. It is popularly used in Germany, Austria the Netherlands and in other parts of Europe, since it is one of the foremost connections that is mentioned in several EU project specifications.
How is Schuko different from French sockets?
While both formats are 16A 250V round pin versions, the positioning of the earth is different. One has it on the side of the plug, while the other has it as an extra pin. While earthed plugs can incorporate the two systems in principle, the sockets are different, so standardization is necessary in practice.
Can a two pin plug be used in a Schuko socket?
In most cases, a two pin European plug should be able to plug in a Schuko socket, but it does not utilize the earth connection. This is ok for applications that are doubly insulated; devices that need to utilize earth however must use Schuko plug to ensure that there is a path for current through earth.
Is the socket rated for 16A appliances?
That’s correct. The module has the characteristics of 16A 250V with phosphor copper contacts that meet the requirements of a standard European socket load. If connected to high-power fixed equipment, circuit design and protective device become deciding factors; they are dictated by the installation rather than the socket.
Can it be combined with other functions on one plate?
The dimensions of the module are 80 x 80mm, making it compatible with E10 frames ranging between one and five gangs. This allows a Schuko socket to reside on the same plate as a switch, or other data module or a secondary socket having a different format. This is how the mixed plates meant for hotels and hospitality business come into being.
Can we brand the socket and choose the plate colour?
Absolutely. It is possible to print a logo on the plate along with a custom carton and instruction sheet, and you can choose the plate colour based on your order. The minimum order quantity is for an item and is confirmed with the pricing depending on the configuration you want.
