SmartPlug does recognize that the dockside end of the shore power connection is also very problematic and contributes to the unsafe reputation that the twist-type has made for itself.   SmartPlug Systems is making significant progress in working with the appropriate regulatory bodies to change the standard for dockside shore power. We anticipate having dockside products (including dockside outlets and SmartPlug-to-SmartPlug cordsets) available in 2011.  Unfortunately, changing a system that has been used for over 70 years takes time, but in the meantime we want our product available for you to use and provide you with the peace of mind that you know you’re doing everything you can to protect you your boat today!

SmartPlug 30 Amp Dual Configuration Cordset

• No Adapters Needed
  • The SmartPlug Dual Configuration cordset was designed to protect the boatside end of the shore power connection first, while allowing for integration with older twist-type connections on the marina end.   Simply install a SmartPlug 30 Amp Inlet on your boat and plug the SmartPlug end of the cordset into it.  The dockside end of the cord connects directly to the older twist-type marina connections.

SmartPlug 30A Dual Configuration cordset with SmartPlug Inlet

• It’s Weatherproof
  • Water intrusion leads to corrosion, and corrosion leads to electrical arcing and overheating.  SmartPlug’s fully molded cordset – along with its weatherproof face seal on the boatside end – eliminates moisture intrusion. 

Weatherproof face seal

• Tinned Copper Wire
  • SmartPlug Cordsets are the first to use tinned copper wire (10/3) for the ultimate in corrosion resistance and durability.  Tinned wire is considered the premium choice for the marine environment as it lasts up to 10 times longer than non-tinned wire.  In fact, marine industry experts recommend the use of tinned wiring throughout the boat for these same reasons.

SmartPlug cord with tinned copper wire

• Sleeved Design
  • One of the primary causes of failure in the old twist-type design is that the electrical pins bear any weight or tension on the cord.  This is of greatest concern on the boatside end of the shore power cable where most of the movement occurs.  The SmartPlug’s sleeve design means that the body of the connector bears that tension, rather than the electrical pins, keeping those points of electrical contact secure. 

Sleeved Design

• Multi-Point Locking System
  • Locking side levers on the connector – along with the SmartPlug Inlet’s locking cap – ensure a rock solid connection on the boatside end.

Multi-Point Locking System

Check out the pictures:

Emergency Vehicles are subjected to harsh environments similar to boats.  They are exposed to all different types of weather, vibration, contamination by various chemicals such as oil and fuel as a boat would be while plugged in.  Since they are currently using the same twist lock plug to supply electricity as the marine industry uses they are susceptible to the same dangers such as burning and melting.   Those who have contacted us from Virginia, Illinois, Seattle and Miami have expressed their frustrations and concerns of finding their plugs in this condition and were looking for an alternative with a similar cost. 

Once the ambulance company in Virginia received a SmartPlug to test on one of their emergency vehicles they realized there was no better choice.  Not only has the SmartPlug offered them a much more dependable and safer option but it has also saved them a large amount of money too! 

This brings us to our second misconception, adapters.  There are no adapters needed to be able to use the SmartPlug system.   As we said above, you just need to replace the boatside end of your existing cord and your old inlet and you’re all set!  Once all of our boatside products are available we will be begin releasing dockside products so the marina can also benefit from the protection provided by the SmartPlug System.  When the dockside products are available we will be offering adapters that the marina can use for those who have not yet converted to the SmartPlug system.   

Finally, because the dockside end of your cord will remain the old-style, you will be able to visit any marina or dock equipped with the old standard while still protecting your boat.  Simply bring your converted cord (or one of the upcoming SmartPlug Dual Configuration Cordsets!) with you wherever you cruise.

Happy safe boating!

1. Corrosion-Pitting on the blades (which looks like little green or black dots).
2. Discoloration around the female connector on the face of the plug.
3. Deformation of the holes on the connector.
4. Any sort of melting, black color or burning plastic on either the inlet or the connector.

Remember next time you have to replace your shore power there is finally a better option, think SmartPlug! 

Stay safe.

Coming home from the boat shows we are happy to report that we are continually gaining support in the marine industry and now also with first response vehicles. We also had a lot of opportunity to talk in depth with people in the industry about the continued problems caused by the current standard and the need for a change. In addition we had a visit from Bob Bitchin at Lats & Atts that you can check out here! Thanks to all that came by to speak with us. We look forward to keeping in touch!