Submitted by DonHester on Wed, 11/28/2018 - 18:20.
“Building Code Of The Day” Question: Is a receptacle an Outlet? A) Yes
B) No
C) I don’t know
Answer: B) No, a receptacle is technically a device Per the Article 100 Definition Receptacle.
A receptacle is a contact device installed at the outlet for the connection of an attachment plug. A single receptacle is a single contact device with no other contact device on the same yoke. A multiple receptacle is two or more contact devices on the same yoke. Receptacle Outlet.
An outlet where one or more receptacles are installed.
Outlet. A point on the wiring system at which current is taken to supply utilization equipment. Device.
A unit of an electrical system, other than a conductor, that carries or controls electric energy as its principal function.
From the NEC Handbook-
Switches, circuit breakers, fuseholders, receptacles, attachment plugs, and lampholders that distribute or control but do not consume electrical energy are considered devices. Devices that consume incidental amounts of electrical energy in the performance of carrying or controlling electricity — such as a switch with an internal pilot light, a GFCI receptacle, or a magnetic contactor — are also considered devices. Although conductors are units of the electrical system, they are not devices.
If you find any errors or have additional information that would expand on any code, building standards or manufacturer requirements please let me know.
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