PowerCon type plugs can be a real source of confusion.  Thankfully, it doesn't have to be confusing...if you read this guide!

One thing we see every day is folks buy new lights or other AV gear, and they sometimes end up with fixtures that they thought would match their existing plugs and extension cabling, other times they purchase cabling to go with new fixtures and then it doesn't work.

PowerCON vs. PowerCON True1

PowerCON is a trademark of Neutrik, one of the largest connector companies in the world, and the inventor of these plugs. 

PowerCON - Blue/Gray

The "PowerCON" is a blue or gray plug, and is the older version of this plug.  The PowerCON blue is the input plug, and the gray is for output.  The Blue and Gray plugs are mirrored in layout so that they are not able to be plugged in backwards.

PowerCON's were a big step forward - they allowed power linking in lighting fixtures, stage boxes, and more with easy-to-use locking connectors.

The PowerCON blue/gray does have some issues- mainly that it is NOT rated for plugging or unplugging with live power "under load", and it isn't able to be extended simply - you have to get a barrel connector to extend a PowerCON blue/gray.  

It also isn't waterproof, which isn't applicable in every situation, but would be nice to have...and we have to add a side note there - the brand "Seetronic" does offer a IP65, waterproof PowerCON-style plug that is based on the Blue/Gray PowerCON.  Of course, for it to be waterproof, both ends of the connection would need to be their plug.  The Seetronic waterproof plug is also typically yellow, orange, or yellow/black.

PowerCON True1

The PowerCON True1 solves the problems with with the original PowerCon connectors.  It is typically a black or black/yellow connector, and a distinctly different male and female plug:

It is waterproof (IP65), can be plugged and unplugged hot, and can be extended.  Many new fixtures use the PowerCON True1 plug - whether they are waterproof fixtures or not.  While some cheaper fixtures do still use the blue/gray PowerCON, many modern fixtures have moved to using the True1 for consistency.

PowerCON True1 plugs are often known as "True1", or "TrueCON", to keep them separate from the blue/gray PowerCON's....however - there still can be some real confusion.  Manufacturer's who don't use the genuine Neutrik parts aren't able to use the terms "PowerCON True1" directly in their marketing and product descriptions, so it can be really confusing. 

Need help?  Before you buy, you can ALWAYS reach out to us at Above AVL.  We can look at the model numbers of your fixtures, or simply send photos of what you have, and we can help you find what you need to make your events happen!