Abstract: A general purpose, alternating current wall switch is provided with a rocker handle having an extremely light feel resulting from the fact that the angular distance or throw between the opposite extreme positions thereof is very small, on the order of about 20 degrees in a preferred embodiment. Throw of the handle through the noted small angular distance is effective, however, to operate a contact actuator through a much larger angular distance to assure a proper mechanical and electrical function, the distance through which the contact actuator rocks in a preferred embodiment being on the order of about 50 degrees. The mechanical advantage is produced by a loose, lost motion interengagement between the rocker handle and the contact actuator, both of which are mounted to rock about spaced, separate pivot axes.

Abstract: A device for suppressing transient voltage surges is mountable at the end of a branch circuit in place of a conventional duplex receptacle. When so mounted, the device in external configuration duplicates the duplex receptacle exactly, except for omission of one of the two sets of slots normally provided for receiving the prongs of attachment plugs. The device, when mounted in a conventional outlet box, receives a conventional duplex receptacle wall plate, and being of the external configuration matching that of a conventional duplex receptacle, provides no projection beyond the wall plate greater than the projection defined by the raised portions of an ordinary duplex receptacle as heretofore known. Use of completely conventional duplex receptacle components, modified either not at all or only slightly, is permitted.

Abstract: An electrical connector having a tubular support through which a power cable extends, and a contact housing within which the cable is connected to male or female contacts. The support and housing have mating quick threads facilitating their assembly after connection of the cable to the contacts. A lock means on the support automatically responds to connection of the support and housing to each other, to prevent their accidental separation. Normal operation of a cable clamping device on the support clamps and strain-relieves the cable within the support. Deformation of the cable to offer strain relief acts upon the lock means to prevent its movement from the position in which it locks the housing and support against accidental separation.A cable-clamping and strain-relieving device is disclosed, including a screw threadable laterally through an opening of a wiring device body into a power cable-receiving passage formed in the body. A swiveled head on the screw bears against the insulation of the conductor.

Abstract: A terminal collar for electrically connecting a contact element includes a yoke of strip metal in the shape of a closed loop. End portions of the strip overlap, one being formed with a clearance opening and the other having a swaged boss engaging in the opening to prevent relative lateral deviation of the end portions. Side walls of the yoke define reentrant angles. Upon advancement of a screw through threads formed in the boss the contact element and conductor are clamped within the yoke. The side walls are stressed resiliently, and accommodate themselves to contraction or expansion of the wire, while at all times remaining within their elastic limits.