Description
The Neutrik NAC3FXXA-W-S is a locking Powercon cable connector designed for power-out applications on portable AC mains equipment. The connector accepts cable diameters from 6mm to 12mm and terminates via screw-type terminals. The blue housing colour-codes it as power-out (as opposed to grey power-in connectors), preventing accidental reverse connection on stage and in rental applications.
Used primarily in professional audio, touring sound systems, lighting rigs and broadcast equipment, the NAC3FXXA mates with Powercon XX Series panel-mount receptacles via Neutrik's twist-lock mechanism. The locking action requires a quarter-turn to engage and prevents accidental disconnection under cable tension or vibration. The connector is rated for 250V AC single-phase three-conductor use and carries an IP20 rating, meaning it's protected against solid objects larger than 12.5mm but not water ingress, so it's suited to indoor and dry outdoor applications under cover.
The screw terminals accommodate solid or stranded conductors and the strain relief clamps mechanically to both the cable jacket and the connector insert, distributing pull forces across the assembly rather than loading the terminals directly. The contact resistance is specified at 2 milliohms maximum, and the connector is rated for typically 5,000 mating cycles, making it a long-term installation component rather than a disposable item. Neutrik manufactures the housing from glass-fibre reinforced polyamide, giving impact resistance and dimensional stability across the -33°C to +80°C operating range.
Specification
| Contact resistance |
≤ 2 mΩ |
| Lifetime |
Typically 5’000 mating cycles |
| Terminals |
Screw type |
| Temperature range |
-33°C to + 80°C |
| IP rating |
IP20 |
Frequently Asked
What's the difference between blue and grey Powercon connectors?
Blue Powercon connectors (NAC3FXX-A series) are keyed for power-out applications, meaning they carry power away from the equipment. Grey connectors (NAC3FXX-B series) are keyed for power-in, bringing mains supply into the equipment. The keying prevents plugging a power-out cable into a power-out socket, which would create a short circuit.
Can this connector be used outdoors?
The IP20 rating means the connector is protected against solid objects larger than 12.5mm but has no water resistance. It can be used in dry outdoor applications under cover (marquees, dry loading docks, sheltered stages) but should not be exposed to rain, spray or standing water.
What cable types are compatible?
The connector accepts cable diameters from 6mm to 12mm outer jacket, which covers most H05VV-F, H07RN-F and SJT-type flexible mains cables used in portable equipment. The screw terminals accommodate both solid and stranded conductors.
How is the strain relief fitted?
The strain relief is a separate component that clamps onto the cable jacket and locks mechanically into the connector housing. Once the cable is terminated at the screw terminals, the strain relief is slid onto the cable, positioned so it grips the jacket firmly, then the housing halves are assembled around it. This distributes pull forces across the cable jacket rather than loading the screw terminals.