Q: When I plugged my cell phone charger into a kitchen outlet, my phone didn’t start charging as it normally does—rather, it seemed that this one electrical outlet was not working. Is there something ...

Not all outlet holes are the same, and there's a reason for that. The shapes (vertical slots, round holes, T-slots, etc.) correspond to specific electrical functions and safety features. Take the ...

Smart plugs are the simpler option: You plug them directly into an existing outlet, and they add a Wi-Fi or Bluetooth receiver between the wall and whatever you're powering. No installation required.

A safety feature once seen as annoying became a lifesaving barrier when a child tried inserting a cable into an outlet at home.

February 28, 2006 Don’tya just love a simple and clever solution. One of the legacy items in every home that just never seems to get updated is the electrical wall outlet or power socket or whatever ...

One of the often-ignored pieces of modern technology is powered receptacles (outlets), which are used daily to run a variety of devices and appliances. Electrical plug types come in a wide range of ...

Dr. Elizabeth Yuko is a bioethicist and adjunct professor of ethics at Fordham University. She has written for The New York Times, The Washington Post, The Atlantic, Rolling Stone, CNN & Playboy. Have ...

The Sleek Socket is a pencil-thin cover for electrical outlets that hides unattractive cords while keeping the outlet ...

It's no secret, nor is it a mystery, that water and electricity do not mix. We never want to get water on or in any of our electronics, much less our outlets. Unfortunately, it can still happen ...

You find yourself in an airport or hotel room in another country, and you really need to charge your phone, camera or game system. But what is that strange-looking outlet? It has round holes! And ...