More Than GFCI - SafePlug Trips Before the Overload Starts:
GFCI (ground fault current interrupter) outlets have been used for many years as a safety measure in kitchens and bathrooms and other high-risk areas. GFCI's are those familiar outlets with the red and black buttons that sometimes trip when you don't want them to trip. OFCI (overload fault current interrupter) turns off the power before the overload starts. SafePlug is one example of this technology.
RFID Tags Installed on Applicance Plugs:
One main difference between SafePlug and GFCI, is that SafePlug receptacles can "read" the appliance that is being plugged in. By knowing the appliance and its load requirements, SafePlug turns off the current before the overload even starts. This matching process is accomplished by installing RFID (radio frequency tags) on applicance plugs.
With OFCI, the Current is Always Off:
Another chief difference is that the current is always off in SafePlug receptacles. When an RFID-enabled plug is inserted, SafePlug identifies the device and continually monitors the load. When load reaches the max point, SafePlug can shut off power.
Retro or In-Wall:
You can purchase receptacles that "piggy-back" onto existing receptacles. Or, you can buy in-wall receptacles for a slimmer profile. The RFID tags have adhesive and easily stick to the device's plug.
GFCI Trivia:
The GFCI is everywhere. But where did it originate? The GFCI patent came from U.C. Berkeley in the 1950s; was marketed and developed by the Rucker company in the 1960s; and then was sold to the 3M company.
