EP4690384A1

EP4690384A1 - Apparatus for providing power for multiple types of plugs via a single receptacle with auto plug type detection and plug retention

Info

Publication number: EP4690384A1
Application number: EP24782045.9A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Scott Cooper; Brad Wilson; Jeff Micek; Joe DERSH; Casey Gilson; Kevin R. Ferguson
Original assignee: Vertiv Corp
Current assignee: Vertiv Corp
Priority date: 2023-03-29
Filing date: 2024-03-29
Publication date: 2026-02-11
Also published as: CN121693832A; WO2024206846A1

Abstract

The present disclosure is an apparatus for providing power for multiple types of plugs via each, single receptacle, with auto plug type detection and plug retention for each, single receptacle, of the one or more receptacles of the apparatus. The apparatus for providing power for multiple types of plugs via each, single receptacle, may provide power to one plug of a C14 plug, C16 plug, C20 plug, or C22 plug via each, single receptacle. The apparatus for providing power for multiple types of plugs via each, single receptacle, of the one or more receptacles of the apparatus may include auto plug type detection whereby the type of plug, such as a C14 plug, C16 plug, C20 plug, or C22 plug, may be automatically detected upon insertion into the desired receptacle and may further include plug retention.

Description

APPARATUS FOR PROVIDING POWER FOR MULTIPLE TYPES OF PLUGS VIA A SINGLE RECEPTACLE WITH AUTO PLUG TYPE DETECTION AND PLUG RETENTION TECHNICAL FIELD [0001] The present disclosure generally relates to the field of electrical power distribution units, and more particularly to an apparatus for providing power for multiple types of plugs via a single receptacle with auto plug type detection and plug retention. BACKGROUND [0002] Many electronic devices, particularly computer and data storage equipment, are supplied power from an alternating current (AC) power source. A power distribution unit (PDU) is typically employed with data storage equipment and may be provided in a number of sizes and form factors. One example of a power distribution unit may be a vertical power distribution unit which is usually formed as a long row of receptacles with a narrow width to fit within a space not occupied by the rack “U” space whereby equipment which requires electrical power may connect with the power distribution unit through the row of receptacles. [0003] Conventional power distribution units have a number of challenges. Space is a premium factor within computer racks and cabinets; therefore, the size of the power distribution unit is always a major concern. As computer, server, and network equipment continues to grow in size, the concern over space within a computer rack or cabinet is increased. Also, there is a challenge with respect to a number of receptacles to provide on a power distribution unit, but there is also another challenge in the type of receptacles that are necessary to be placed on the power distribution unit to serve current requirements and future requirements. SUMMARY [0004] Accordingly, the present disclosure is directed to an apparatus for providing power for multiple types of plugs via each, single receptacle, with auto plug type detection and plug retention for each, single receptacle, of the one or more receptacles of the apparatus. [0005] In an embodiment of the disclosure, the present disclosure is directed to an apparatus for providing power for multiple types of plugs via each, single receptacle, of the one or more receptacles of the apparatus. In one embodiment of the disclosure, the apparatus for providing power for multiple types of plugs via each, single receptacle, may provide power to one of a C14 plug, C16 plug, C20 plug, or C22 plug via each, single receptacle, whereby each, single receptacle, may operate as a C13, C15, C19, and C21 receptacle. In an additional embodiment of the present disclosure, the apparatus for providing power for multiple types of plugs via each, single receptacle, of the one or more receptacles of the apparatus may include auto plug type detection whereby the type of plug, such as a C14 plug, C16 plug, C20 plug, or C22 plug, may be automatically detected upon insertion of the particular plug into the desired receptacle. In another additional embodiment of the present disclosure, the apparatus for providing power for multiple types of plugs via each, single receptacle, of the one or more receptacles of the apparatus may include plug retention whereby the plug may be retained within the desired receptacle and not be inadvertently detached and disconnected from the desired receptacle. [0006] It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory only and are not necessarily restrictive of the present disclosure. The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of the specification, illustrate subject matter of the disclosure. Together, the descriptions and the drawings serve to explain the principles of the disclosure. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS [0007] The numerous advantages of the disclosure may be better understood by those skilled in the art by reference to the accompanying figures. [0008] FIG.1 illustrates an apparatus including one or more receptacles wherein each, single receptacle, may be configured to connect with multiple types of plugs, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [0009] FIGS. 2A-2B illustrate exploded views of an apparatus including one or more receptacles wherein each, single receptacle, may be configured to connect with multiple types of plugs, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [0010] FIG. 3 illustrates an apparatus for providing power for multiple types of plugs via a single receptacle may include auto plug type detection, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [0011] FIG. 4 illustrates an apparatus for providing power for multiple types of plugs via a single receptacle may include auto plug type detection, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [0012] FIG. 5 illustrates a schematic of the detection circuitry of the auto plug type detection, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [0013] FIG. 6 illustrates an apparatus for retaining a plug, in a receptacle, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [0014] FIG. 7 illustrates an apparatus for retaining a plug, in a receptacle with a retention device inserted within receptacle body, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [0015] FIG. 8 illustrates a retention device, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [0016] FIG. 9 illustrates a retention device, in accordance with various embodiments of the present disclosure. [0017] FIG.10 illustrates a retention device, in accordance with various embodiments of the present disclosure. [0018] FIG. 11 illustrates an exemplary plug, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [0019] FIG. 12 illustrates a cutaway view of the apparatus for retaining a plug, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [0020] FIG. 13 illustrates a cutaway view of the apparatus for retaining a plug, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [0021] FIG.14 illustrates a power strip including an apparatus for retaining a plug, in a receptacle, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [0022] FIG.15 illustrates a power strip including an apparatus for retaining a plug, in a receptacle, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [0023] FIG. 16A-16D illustrate a locking device to improve the gripping performance of a retention device with a shroud of a connector when placed within a receptacle body, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [0024] FIG. 17 illustrates a retention device, in accordance with an alternative embodiment of the present disclosure. [0025] FIG. 18 illustrates a retention device, in accordance with an additional alternative embodiment of the present disclosure. [0026] FIG. 19 illustrates an apparatus including one or more receptacles wherein each, single receptacle, may be configured to connect with multiple types of plugs, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [0027] FIGS.20A-20B illustrate exploded views of an apparatus including one or more receptacles wherein each, single receptacle, may be configured to connect with multiple types of plugs, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [0028] FIG.21 illustrates an apparatus for providing power for multiple types of plugs via a single receptacle which may include auto plug type detection and plug retention, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [0029] FIG.22 illustrates an apparatus for providing power for multiple types of plugs via a single receptacle which may include auto plug type detection and plug retention, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [0030] FIG. 23 illustrates an apparatus for retaining a plug, in a receptacle, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [0031] FIG. 24 illustrates an apparatus for retaining a plug, in a receptacle with a retention device inserted within receptacle body, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [0032] FIGS. 25A-25B illustrate a retention device, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [0033] FIG.26 illustrates a cutaway view of an apparatus including a C14 plug or C16 plug, retained to a receptacle by a retention device, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [0034] FIG.27 illustrates a cutaway view of an apparatus including a C20 plug or C22 plug, retained to a receptacle by a retention device, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [0035] FIG. 28 illustrates an apparatus including one or more receptacles wherein each, single receptacle, may be configured to connect with multiple types of plugs, with a plug being retained by a retention device, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [0036] FIG. 29 illustrates an apparatus including one or more receptacles wherein each, single receptacle, may be configured to connect with multiple types of plugs, with a plug being retained by a retention device, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [0037] FIG. 30 illustrates a retention device, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION [0038] Reference will now be made in detail to the subject matter disclosed, which is illustrated in the accompanying drawings. [0039] Before explaining one or more embodiments of the disclosure in detail, it is to be understood that the embodiments are not limited in their application to the details of construction and the arrangement of the components or steps or methodologies set forth in the following description or illustrated in the drawings. In the following detailed description of embodiments, numerous specific details may be set forth in order to provide a more thorough understanding of the disclosure. However, it will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of the instant disclosure that the embodiments disclosed herein may be practiced without some of these specific details. In other instances, well-known features may not be described in detail to avoid unnecessarily complicating the instant disclosure. [0040] As used herein a letter following a reference numeral is intended to reference an embodiment of the feature or element that may be similar, but not necessarily identical, to a previously described element or feature bearing the same reference numeral (e.g., 1, 1a, 1b). Such shorthand notations are used for purposes of convenience only and should not be construed to limit the disclosure in any way unless expressly stated to the contrary. [0041] Further, unless expressly stated to the contrary, “or” refers to an inclusive or and not to an exclusive or. For example, a condition A or B is satisfied by any one of the following: A is true (or present), and B is false (or not present), A is false (or not present) and B is true (or present), and both A and B are true (or present). [0042] In addition, the use of “a” or “an” may be employed to describe elements and components of embodiments disclosed herein. This is done merely for convenience and “a” and “an” are intended to include “one” or “at least one,” and the singular also includes the plural unless it is obvious that it is meant otherwise. [0043] Finally, as used herein any reference to “one embodiment” or “embodiments” means that a particular element, feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment disclosed herein. The appearances of the phrase “in embodiments” in various places in the specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment, and embodiments may include one or more of the features expressly described or inherently present herein, or any combination or sub-combination of two or more such features, along with any other features which may not necessarily be expressly described or inherently present in the instant disclosure. [0044] The present disclosure may be directed to an apparatus for providing power for multiple types of plugs via each, single receptacle, of the one or more receptacles with auto plug type detection and plug retention. [0045] In one embodiment of the disclosure, the apparatus for providing power for multiple types of plugs via each, single receptacle, of the one or more receptacles of the apparatus may provide power to one plug of a C14 plug, C16 plug, C20 plug, or C22 plug via each, single receptacle, of one or more receptacles, whereby the single receptacle may be configured to operate as a C13, C15, C19, and C21 receptacle. It should be understood that a C14 plug and a C16 plug may have similar dimensions, and a C20 plug and a C22 plug may have similar dimensions, with the C16 and C22 plugs being suitable for high temperature applications. In an additional embodiment of the present disclosure, the apparatus for providing power for multiple types of plugs via each, single receptacle, of the one or more receptacles of the apparatus may include auto plug type detection whereby the type of plug, such as a C14 plug, C16 plug, C20 plug, or C22 plug, may be automatically detected upon insertion into the desired receptacle. [0046] In one embodiment, it is contemplated that the auto plug type detection may be able to detect one of a C14/C16 plug or one of a C20/C22 plug. In another additional embodiment of the present disclosure, the apparatus for providing power for multiple types of plugs via each, single receptacle, of the one or more receptacles may include plug retention whereby the plug may be retained in a desired receptacle, and may not be inadvertently detached and disconnected from a desired receptacle. [0047] Referring to FIG. 1, an apparatus 100 including one or more receptacles wherein each, single receptacle, is configured to connect with multiple types of plugs, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure, is shown. For example, each receptacle of the apparatus 100 may individually connect with a C14 plug, C16 plug, C20 plug, or C22 plug as specified by IEC 60320-1 standard. It is contemplated that the C20 plug or C22 plug has a standardized, specified, shape which is different and larger in circumference than then C14 plug or the C16 plug. While FIG.1 depicts a set of receptacles, it is contemplated that apparatus 100 of the present disclosure may be implemented as a single unit. Each, single receptacle, may include at least three electrical terminals contained within a receptacle body. The three electrical terminals may be configured to connect with one of a C14 plug, C16 plug, C20 plug, or C22 plug wherein each electrical terminal of the at least three electrical terminals may be configured to connect with a corresponding pin of a C14 plug, C16 plug, C20 plug, or C22 plug, despite the different size and orientation of the pins of the C14 plug and C16 plug and the pins of the C20 plug and C22 plug. [0048] Referring to FIG.2A-2B, exploded views of an apparatus 100 including one or more of receptacles wherein each, single receptacle, is configured to connect with multiple types of plugs, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, are shown. The apparatus 100 may include a flange 102 and a receptacle 114. The flange 102 may include a projecting rim or collar that may surround a receptacle 114 at the base of a receptacle body 110. It is contemplated that the flange 102 may be include a variety of sizes and or shapes. Additionally, the flange 102 may be employed to provide one or more visual indicators, which may include a light pipe ring and/or a flag feature which may be adjacent or in proximity to the receptacles of the apparatus 100 to allow ease of identifying receptacle status via coupling of a RBG light emitting diode (LED) output and enumeration. [0049] It is further contemplated that the flange 102 may be employed to provide a more secure fit between the receptacle body 110 and one plug of the C14 plug, C16 plug, C20 plug, or C22 plug. Each of the C14 plug, C16 plug, C20 plug, and C22 plug may include a shroud which surrounds the pins of the respective plugs. It is contemplated that when the C14 plug, C16 plug, C20 plug, or C22 plug may be inserted within the receptacle 114, the shroud may be configured to surround the receptacle 100 when the pins of the C14 plug, C16 plug, C20 plug, or C22 plug may be inserted. In one embodiment, the flange 102 may be formed and sized whereby the shroud of a C20 plug or a C22 plug may surround the flange 102 of the receptacle body and may provide a tension fit at the base of the receptacle body 110. For example, an interior diameter of the shroud of the C20 plug or C22 plug may be just slightly larger than an exterior diameter of the flange 102 so that a tension fit between the shroud and the flange 102 may be formed. Additionally, a shroud of the C14 plug or C16 plug may connect with a top side of the flange 102 and may account for a difference in size between the C14 plug/C16 plug and a C20 plug/C22 plug. For example, a height of the flange 102 may be sized to allow an exterior edge of the shroud of a C14 plug or C16 plug to contact and rest upon a top side of the flange 102. Advantageously, the flange 102 may allow a more secure fit between the receptacle 114 to one plug of a C14 plug, C16 plug, C20 plug, or C22 plug. [0050] It is contemplated that the receptacle 114 as shown in FIGS. 1, 2A, and 2B may provide a fully rated C13/C15/C19/C21 combination receptacle assembly and may be formed with ganged earth, fully 16/20A rated receptacles which are finger safe in compliance with IEC60320. It is contemplated that live (hot) and neutral connections to the receptacle 114 may be ganged as a single line and neutral, or kept as individual connections to allow for total wiring flexibility. The ground or protective earth (PE) may be ganged, too, with wire connecting terminals at the ends of the ganged row to allow for electrical joining or extension of one or two receptacle assemblies PE. [0051] Referring to FIG 3, an apparatus 100 for providing power for multiple types of plugs via a single receptacle may include auto plug type detection whereby the type of plug, such as a C14 plug, C16 plug, C20 plug, or C22 plug, may be automatically detected upon insertion into the receptacle, is shown. In one embodiment, it is contemplated that the auto plug type detection may be able to detect one of a C14/C16 plug or one of a C20/C22 plug. It is contemplated that one or more grounded probes, metal leaf springs, or plungers, collectively referred as probe 180, may be employed to provide the auto plug type detection. The one or more probes 180 may either be all metal construction inherently grounded through an electromechanical connection to the ground terminal of a receptacle, or the probe 180 may be constructed as a plastic insulator with an electrically floating metal end that may be configured to complete an electrical circuit at a printed circuit board that is grounded or biased at a fixed DC voltage. [0052] It is contemplated that the auto plug type detection may provide several benefits. For example, auto plug type detection may support automatic outlet overcurrent alarm threshold configuration based upon IEC current rating of the detected plug type. Additionally, the auto plug type detection may support detection of a full engagement of the appliance coupler to alert of an unsecure mate, which may also lead to subsequent temperature rise at the appliance coupler’s male/female terminals interface due to high dissipation from high-impedance electrical connections supporting a heavy current draw. Further, the auto type detection may help may improve a commissioning process to troubleshoot a correct specificity of plug type required by server current ratings with respect to its prescribed power connection to a remote power distribution unit according to a specific outlet or receptacle position, number, and/or associated phase or line voltage. [0053] It is further contemplated that the auto plug type detection may be beneficial within the apparatus 100 which may include a power distribution unit (PDU) that automatically and safely switches power to one or more receptacles. The PDU may include processors, the processors utilizing control algorithms that manage bistable relays so that in-rush current may be minimized upon manual connection/disconnection of power to a load device. In particular, a relay contact status (open/closed) may be identified based on changes in RMS or peak voltage influenced by the load impedance. The PDU may be configured to predict timings for voltage zero-crossing events. In this manner and based on the determination of the relay contact status and voltage zero-crossing prediction in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure, open relay contacts may be identified and safely closed at voltage zero-crossing, as disclosed in US Serial No. 18/198,504 filed May 17, 2023, and owned by the same Applicant as the present application. The US Serial No. 18/198,504 filed May 17, 2023, is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. [0054] In an embodiment, insertion of a plug 190, which may be representative of a C20 plug or C22 plug, may create an electrical or mechanical change which may indicate a plug type. For example, a C20 plug or C22 plug 190 may force either a vertical or sideways displacement of a probe 180, as shown in FIG. 3. It is contemplated that a probe 180 may travel perpendicularly away from a bottom of the receptacle to interact with an exposed metal feature on a corresponding receiving device 185, such as a printed circuit board plated thru hole slot, test pad, terminal, and the like by creating a continuity with a corresponding node of the corresponding receiving device 185, as shown in an exemplary manner in FIG.5. The contact of the probe 180 to an electrical circuit of the corresponding receiving device 185 may change a reference voltage signal by a fixed amount which may be digitized by an analog-to-digital converter. When one or more corresponding nodes of the electrical circuit of the corresponding receiving device 185 may be effectively grounded by the probe 180, a composite voltage signal, less than the reference voltage, may be produced, which may have a unique magnitude related to a combination of grounded nodes. It is contemplated that a digitized ADC value may encode enumerated physical locations of C19/C20 or C21/C22 coupler connections. [0055] In another embodiment, a C14 plug or C16 plug may force either a vertical or sideways displacement of another probe. The use of another probe for displacement by a C14 plug or C16 plug may ensure integrity of an electrical connection. If current is flowing in a receptacle, but neither probe has registered contact, then the plug retention may not be guaranteed. [0056] Referring to FIG.4, an apparatus 100 for providing power for multiple types of plugs via a single receptacle may include auto plug type detection in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure is shown. As shown in FIG.4, a plug 192 may be inserted within a receptacle. The plug 192 may be a C14 plug or C16 plug. However, as shown in an exemplary manner, the probe 180 may not be forced to connect with a corresponding receiving device 185 if a single probe design is employed, wherein the probe 180 may be configured to be depressed if a C20 plug or C22 plug may be inserted. In such a situation, a C14 plug or C16 plug may be assumed by default, but may not be confirmed until current flow is measured with respect to the receptacle and a C20 plug or C22 plug is not detected in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure. If a C20 plug or C22 plug may be detected, then it may be established that a C20 plug or C22 plug may be inserted, regardless of current flow within the receptacle, in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure. [0057] In another embodiment of the disclosure, a probe configured to be depressed by a C20/C22 plug when inserted within the receptacle may be included, and another probe configured to be depressed by a C14/C16 plug when inserted within the receptacle, may be included as well. [0058] Referring to FIG.5, a schematic of the detection circuitry 510 of the auto plug type detection electrical circuit, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, is shown. It is contemplated that each receptacle may include a probe 180, as shown in FIGS.3-4. If a C20 plug or C22 plug may be inserted within the receptacle, then the probe 180 may be configured to contact a corresponding receiving device 185 as shown in FIG.3, such as a metal feature on a printed circuit board. It is further contemplated that various known and unique resistances may be part of each receptacle, and each corresponding node, whereby a reference voltage may be provided to the analog-to-digital converter and may indicate which, if any, of the receptacles have a C20 plug or C22 plug inserted within a particular receptacle. [0059] As shown in FIG.5, for six receptacles, sixty-four combinations of unique ADC values may be measured which represent all the possible combinatorial positions of C20 or C22 plugs. A look-up table may map these values to a corresponding, unique sequence of C14/C16 and C20/C22 plugs. In one embodiment, for example, if only 32R was grounded, the ADC value may be the largest possible and mean only the first receptacle had a C20 or C22 plug installed. It is contemplated that the resistor values are binary weighted and may change proportionally, as necessary. While this example is described for a probe to be depressed by a C20/C22 plug, it may be operable in a similar fashion for a probe to be depressed by a C14/C16 plug as well without departing from the scope and intent of the present disclosure. In another alternative embodiment, a first probe may be employed for one of the C20/C22 plug or C14/C16 plug, and a second probe may be employed with the other of the C20/C22 plug or C14/C16 plug. [0060] Referring generally to FIGS. 6-18, in another additional embodiment of the present disclosure, an apparatus 100 for providing power for multiple types of plugs via, each, single receptacle may include a plug retention device, or retention device 120, which may retain a plug and prevent a plug from being inadvertently detached and disconnected from the receptacle 114. The apparatus 100 for retaining a plug within a receptacle 114 may include a receptacle body 110 and a retention device 120. The retention device 120 may include a face portion 122 and at least one prong 124, each prong 124 of the at least one prong may include at least one barb 128. The retention device 120 may be configured to retain a plug inserted within the receptacle body 110 by contact with a shroud 220 of the plug 200 from the barb 128 of each prong 124 of the at least one prong of the retention device 120. [0061] Referring specifically to FIG. 6, an apparatus 100 for retaining a plug in a receptacle, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure, is shown. The apparatus 100 for retaining a plug within a receptacle may include a receptacle body 110 and a retention device 120. The receptacle body 110 may include a receptacle 114. In an alternative embodiment, the receptacle body 110 may surround the receptacle 114. The retention device 120 may include a face portion 122 and at least one prong 124A, 124B, 124C and 124D. As shown in FIG. 6, four prongs are included, however, less or more than four prongs may be employed in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. Each prong 124A-124D may include at least one barb 128 and a ridge 130. It is contemplated that the barb 128 may be located on a first side of a prong 124 and ridge 130 may be located on an opposite side of the first side, or a second side of the prong 124. The retention device 120 may be configured to retain a plug inserted within the receptacle body 110 by contact with a shroud of the plug from the barb 128 of each prong 124A-124D of the retention device 120. [0062] As shown in FIG.6, the receptacle 114 may be part of receptacle body 110. It is contemplated that the receptacle 114 may include a female electrical fitting and may be referred to and called a connector. While the receptacle 114 as shown in FIG.6 and other figures of the present disclosure may be implemented as a single type of receptacle, it is contemplated that the plug retention of the present disclosure may be employed with the receptacles shown and described with respect to FIGS.1, 2A, and 2B configured to operate with a C14 plug and a C20 plug, without departing from the scope and intent of the present disclosure. [0063] The receptacle body 110 and the retention device 120 may be formed of a variety of rigid materials, including plastic, composites, and/or metals. It is contemplated that plastic may be engineering grade, and the plastic may be in compliance with local safety requirements. The barb 128 may be formed of a plastic, in one embodiment of the disclosure. In an alternative embodiment, the barb 128 may be formed of a metal, such as stainless steel. [0064] Referring to FIG. 7, an apparatus 100 for retaining a plug in a receptacle is shown with retention device 120 inserted within receptacle body 110, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. It is contemplated that the retention device 120 may be inserted within the receptacle body 110 and may retain a plug 200 with a shroud 220 without requiring any modification to the shroud 220 (as shown in FIG.11). [0065] Referring to FIGS. 8-10, a retention device 120, in accordance with various embodiments of the present disclosure, is shown. It is contemplated that the retention device 120 may be operable with at least one prong 124B as shown in FIG. 10. In alternative embodiments, retention device 120 may include three prongs (124A-124C) and four prongs (124A-124D) as shown in FIG.9 and FIG.8 respectively. Additionally, the retention device 120 may include two prongs or may include five or more prongs without departing from the scope and intent of the present disclosure. It is further contemplated that the placement of the at least one prong 124 may be adjusted without departing from the scope and intent of the present disclosure. As shown in FIG.8, four prongs 124A-124D may be placed to contact corners of a shroud 220 of plug 200, as shown in FIG.11. However, it should be understood that prongs 124A- 124D may be placed to contact sides of the shroud 220 of the plug 200, as shown in FIG.11. Similarly, placement of the at least one prong 124 may be placed in alternate locations to contact one or more corners and/or one or more sides of the shroud 220 of the plug 200. [0066] It is further contemplated that the placement of the prongs, length of the one or more prongs, and the placement of the barbs, including use of multiple barbs per prong, may be adjusted in order for the retention device 120 to retain a C14 plug, a C16 plug, a C20 plug, and a C22 plug within the same receptacle. It is further contemplated, in one embodiment, that the prongs may be placed along the short sides of each receptacle, rather than the corners as shown in FIG.8, for example. It is contemplated that placement of the prongs along the short sides of the receptacle may improve retention with C14, C16, C20, and/or C22 plugs. [0067] Each prong 124A-124D may include at least one barb 128 and a ridge 130. The barb 128 may refer to a projection extending from the prong 124 which may be configured to contact a shroud 220 of a plug 200 as shown in FIG. 11. It is contemplated that the barb 128 may be formed of a metal, such as stainless steel, and may project from the prong 124, which may be formed of a plastic. It is contemplated that the barb 128 may project from the prong 124 at a desired angle to enhance the retention of the plug. As shown in FIG.8, in one embodiment, each barb extends from each prong at an angle, Θ, of about 120-150 degrees from the prong 124 as the prong 124 extends from the face portion 122 of the retention device 120. The desired angle of about 120-150 degrees from the prong as the prong extends from the face portion 122 of the retention device 120 may apply to one or more barbs 128 of one or more prongs 124 of the retention device 120. [0068] Referring to FIG. 11, an exemplary plug 200, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, is shown. Plug 200 may include a male electrical fitting configured to allow an electrical connection with a corresponding female fitting, such as the receptacle 114 as shown and described in this present application. It is contemplated that the plug 200 may be electrically coupled with a cable 230. The plug 200 may include a shroud 220. The plug 200 as shown in FIG. 11 may be shown to describe the plug retention. The plug 200 also be representative of the plug 190 of FIG. 3 which may represent a C20 plug or C22 plug and the plug 200 may also be representative of the of the plug 192 of FIG.4 which may represent a C14 plug or C16 plug. [0069] Referring to FIG. 12 and FIG. 13, cutaway views of the apparatus 100 for retaining a shroud 220 of the plug, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, are shown. FIG.12 depicts a cutaway view of the apparatus 100 for retaining the shroud 220 of the plug in a receptacle in a retention position, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG.13 depicts a cutaway view of the apparatus 100 for retaining a shroud 220 of the plug in a receptacle in a release position, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. [0070] As shown in FIG. 12 and FIG. 13, the barb 128 of each prong 124 of one or more of prongs may contact the shroud 220. Each prong 124 may be forced toward the shroud 220 by contact from a second side or exterior side of the prong 124 by a tapered wall portion 136 of the receptacle body 110. As can be seen, the tapered wall portion 136 may place more force on each prong as the plug is pulled from the receptacle body 110 while still remaining in electrical contact with the receptacle. The tapered wall portion 136, or ramp, may reduce the space in the receptacle body 110 as the plug is removed from the body. This may cause more force to be applied to each prong 124 of the retention device 120 and can cause each barb 128 of each prong 124 to impinge the shroud 220. The plug may be jammed between the prongs 124 of the retention device 120 and may be retained within the receptacle body 110, with such a degree of contact may also be referred as an interference fit or contact fit. [0071] The receptacle body 110 may further include a ledge 134 configured to prevent removal of retention device 120 from the receptacle body 110 by contacting a ridge 130 of each prong 124 of the retention device 120. When the plug 200 may need to be removed from the apparatus for retaining the plug 200, the face portion 122 of the retention device 120 may be depressed or forced inward toward the receptacle body 110. By forcing the retention device 120 toward the receptacle body 110, the jam which may be caused by the prongs 124 of the retention device 120, may be released. As the retention device 120 may be forced toward the receptacle body 110, the space within the receptacle body 110 may expand as the tapered wall portion 136 of the receptacle body 110 may be tapered toward an interior of the receptacle body 110. When this occurs, there is less force which may be applied to each prong 124 by the tapered wall portion 136 of receptacle body 110, and less force applied by each barb 128 on each prong 124 which may be applied to the shroud 220 of the plug 200. As a result, each barb 128 located on each prong of the retention device 120 may apply less force to the shroud 220 of the plug 200. With a reduced force applied to the prongs 124 and correspondingly less force applied by the barbs 128 to the shroud 220 after the face portion 122 of the retention device 120 may be depressed toward the interior of the receptacle body 110, a user may be capable of removing the plug. [0072] Referring to FIG.14, a power strip 300 including the apparatus 100 for retaining a plug in a receptacle, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, is shown. The power strip 300 may include one or more receptacles 114, each individually described in FIG. 6, which may supply power to a plurality of electronic devices. It is contemplated that multiple receptacles for retaining a plug which may be employed in a power strip 300 to prevent unintended disconnection of a plug from a receptacle may be located on the power strip 300. It is contemplated that the face portion 122 of the retention device 120 (as shown specifically in FIG.6), may include one or more tabs 310. The one or more tabs 310 may allow easier finger access to the face portion 122 of the retention device 120 to allow the retention device 120 to be pressed toward the receptacle body to allow removal of a plug as described with respect to FIGS.12-13. [0073] Referring to FIG. 15, a power strip 320 may include an apparatus 100 for retaining a plug in a receptacle, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, is shown. It is contemplated that multiple apparatuses 100, 305 may be employed in a power strip 320 to prevent unintended disconnection of a plug or connector. It is contemplated that the face portion 122 of the retention device 120 (as shown specifically in FIG.6), may include one or more tabs 310. The one or more tabs 310 may allow easier finger access to the retention device 120 to allow the retention device to be depressed or forced toward the receptacle body to allow removal of a plug. [0074] It is contemplated that apparatus 100, 305 may provide a number of advantages over locking receptacles known to the conventional art. Conventional locking receptacles may include specialized receptacles or specialized plugs. Specialized receptacles and specialized plugs create additional costs and reduce the flexibility to change power cords in a large scale electrical power distribution system, such as power strips employed in a data center providing power to multiple data servers. Advantageously, apparatus 100, 305 may be operable with power cords supplied by the manufacturers of electronic equipment, such as data servers. [0075] It is contemplated that the apparatus 100, 305 may be operable with IEC 60320 couplers, referring to a list of standards from the International Electrotechnical Commission specifying non-locking appliance couplers and interconnection couplers for the connection of power supply cords to electrical appliances up to 250 Volts, including C13, C15, C19 and C21 receptacles. Additionally, it is contemplated that the apparatus 100 may be operable with any type of plug that includes a shroud 220 that may cover at least a portion of the pins of the plug (as shown in FIG.11). An additional advantage of the apparatus 100, 305 may include the ability to employ labels and different colors. By adding an identifier such as color or a label to the face portion 122 of the retention device 120 as shown in FIG. 6, particular receptacles may be more easily identified and separated, particularly when implemented with a power strip 300, 320 as depicted in FIG.14 and FIG.15. [0076] Referring to FIGS. 16A-16D, various embodiments of a locking device 400 to improve the gripping performance of a retention device 120 with a shroud of a connector when placed within a receptacle body 110, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, are shown. Locking device 400 may provide a flexible force, like a spring, which may temporarily keep the retention device 120 away from the receptacle body 110 until a connector is placed within the receptacle body 110. When the connector is placed within the receptacle body 110, the connector may be jammed between the prongs 124 of the retention device 120 and retained within the receptacle body 110, in a manner also referred to as an interference fit or contact fit. [0077] As shown in FIGS.16A and 16B, the locking device 400 may be in the form of a washer which is placed between the retention device 120 and the receptacle body 110. It is contemplated that the washer may be free standing or integrated with one of the receptacle body 110 or retention device 120. As shown in FIGS.16C and 16D, the locking mechanism 400 may be in a form of a plurality of springs which may extend from either one of the receptacle body 110 or the retention device 120. It is further contemplated that the locking device 400 may be implemented in various other ways without departing from the scope or intent of the present disclosure. [0078] Referring to FIG.17, a retention device 120, in accordance with an alternative embodiment of the present disclosure, is shown. While shown with four prongs, it is contemplated that the retention device 120 may be operable with a different number of prongs. It is further contemplated that the placement of the at least one prong may be adjusted without departing from the scope and intent of the present disclosure. As shown in FIG.17, four prongs may be placed to contact/impact (e.g. forcibly contact) the corresponding corners of a shroud 220 of plug 200, as shown in FIG.11. However, it should be understood that the prongs may be placed to contact corresponding sides of the shroud 220 of the plug 200, as shown in FIG.11. Similarly, placement of the at least one prong may be placed in alternate locations to contact one or more corners and one or more sides of the shroud 220 of the plug 200, as shown in FIG.11. [0079] Each prong may include at least one barb 1410 and a ridge 130. The barb 1410 may refer to a projection extending from the prong which is configured to contact a shroud of a plug. It is contemplated that the barb 1410 may be formed of an elastomer material. The elastomer material may form a grip for each prong for a friction fit with the shroud of a plug. While the face portion 122 of the retention device may be formed of a hard plastic, such as a nylon plastic, the elastomer material may be softer and slightly compressible to allow a friction fit with a shroud of a plug. The elastomer material may be a thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) material. Additionally, the elastomer material may be acrylonitrile butadiene styrene, polycarbonate, polyethylene, or polypropylene. Additionally, the retention device 120 may include a compression spring 1410 that goes around the periphery of the retention device and may be formed of an elastomer material. [0080] Referring to FIG.18, a retention device 120, in accordance with an additional alternative embodiment of the present disclosure, is shown. While shown with four prongs 124A-D, it is contemplated that the retention device 120 may be operable with a different number of prongs, similar to that shown and described in FIGS. 8-9. It is further contemplated that the placement of the at least one prong 124 may be adjusted without departing from the scope and intent of the present disclosure. As shown in FIG. 18, four prongs 124A-D may be placed to contact/impact the corresponding corners of a shroud 220 of plug 200, as shown in FIG. 11. However, it should be understood that prongs 124A-124D may be placed to contact/impact sides of the shroud 220 of the plug 200, as shown in FIG.11. Similarly, placement of the at least one prong 124 may be placed in alternate locations to contact/impact one or more corners and one or more sides of the shroud 220 of the plug 200, as shown in FIG. 11. Each prong 124 may include at least one barb 1410 and a ridge 130. The barb 1410 may refer to a projection extending from the prong which is configured to contact a shroud of a plug. [0081] It is contemplated that the barb 1410 may be formed of an elastomer material. The elastomer material may form a grip for each prong for a friction fit with the shroud of a plug. While the face portion 122 of the retention device may be formed of a hard plastic, such as nylon plastic, the elastomer material may be softer and slightly compressible to allow a friction fit with a shroud of a plug. The elastomer material may be a thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) material. Additionally, the elastomer material may be acrylonitrile butadiene styrene, polycarbonate, polyethylene, or polypropylene. The retention device 120 may include a wedge 1500 on opposing sides of the retention device. The wedge 1500 may operate as a spring to ensure an appropriate interference fit between the barbs 1410 and the shroud 220 of the plug 200 as shown in FIG.11. [0082] Referring to FIG.19, an apparatus 100 including one or more receptacles 114 wherein each, single receptacle 114, is configured to connect with multiple types of plugs, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure, is shown. For example, each receptacle 114 of the apparatus 100 may individually connect with a C14 plug, C16 plug, C20 plug, or C22 plug as specified by IEC 60320-1 standard. It is contemplated that the C20 plug or C22 plug has a standardized, specified, shape which is different and larger in circumference than then C14 plug or the C16 plug. While FIG. 19 depicts a set of receptacles, it is contemplated that apparatus 100 of the present disclosure may be implemented as a single unit. [0083] Each, single receptacle 114, may include at least three electrical terminals contained within a receptacle body. The three electrical terminals may be configured to connect with one of a C14 plug, C16 plug, C20 plug, or C22 plug wherein each electrical terminal of the at least three electrical terminals may be configured to connect with a corresponding pin of a C14 plug, C16 plug, C20 plug, or C22 plug, despite the different size and orientation of the pins of the C14 plug and C16 plug and the pins of the C20 plug and C22 plug. [0084] Apparatus 100 may further include a retention device 620, the retention device 620 may be configured to retain a plug within the receptacle 114. Advantageously, retention device 620 may be configured to retain a C14 plug, C16 plug, C20 plug, or C22 plug within the receptacle 114. [0085] Referring to FIG.20A-20B, exploded views of an apparatus 100 including one or more receptacles wherein each, single receptacle 114, is configured to connect with multiple types of plugs, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, are shown. The apparatus 100 may include a flange 102 and the receptacle 114. The flange 102 may include a projecting rim or collar that may surround the receptacle 114 at the base of a receptacle body 110. It is contemplated that the flange 102 may be include a variety of sizes and or shapes. Additionally, the flange 102 may be employed to provide one or more visual indicators, which may include a light pipe ring and/or a flag feature which may be adjacent or in proximity to the receptacles of the apparatus 100 to allow ease of identifying receptacle status via coupling of a RBG light emitting diode (LED) output and enumeration. [0086] It is further contemplated that the flange 102 may be employed to provide a more secure fit between the receptacle body 110 and one of the C14 plug, C16 plug, C20 plug, or C22 plug. Each of the C14 plug, C16 plug, C20 plug, and C22 plug may include a shroud which surrounds the pins of the respective plugs. It is contemplated that when the C14 plug, C16 plug, C20 plug, or C22 plug may be inserted within the receptacle 114, the shroud may be configured to surround the receptacle 114 when the pins of the C14 plug, C16 plug, C20 plug, or C22 plug may be inserted. In one embodiment, the flange 102 may be formed and sized whereby the shroud of a C20 plug or a C22 plug may surround the flange 102 of the receptacle body 110 and may provide a tension fit at the base of the receptacle body 110. For example, an interior diameter of the shroud of the C20 plug or C22 plug may be just slightly larger than an exterior diameter of the flange 102 so that a tension fit between the shroud and the flange 102 may be formed. Additionally, a shroud of the C14 plug or C16 plug may connect with a top side of the flange 102 and may account for a difference in size between the C14 plug/C16 plug and a C20 plug/C22 plug. For example, a height of the flange 102 may be sized to allow an exterior edge of the shroud of a C14 plug or C16 plug to contact and rest upon a top side of the flange 102. Advantageously, the flange 102 may allow a more secure fit between the receptacle 114 to one of a C14 plug, C16 plug, C20 plug, or C22 plug. [0087] It is contemplated that the receptacle 114 as shown in FIGS.19, 20A, and 20B may provide a fully rated C13/C15/C19/C21 combination receptacle assembly and may be formed with ganged earth, fully 16/20A rated receptacles which are finger safe in compliance with IEC60320. It is contemplated that live (hot) and neutral connections to the receptacle 114 may be ganged as a single line and neutral, or kept as individual connections to allow for total wiring flexibility. The ground or protective earth (PE) may be ganged, too, with wire connecting terminals at the ends of the ganged row to allow for electrical joining or extension of one or two receptacle assemblies PE. [0088] Referring to FIG 21, an apparatus 100 for providing power for multiple types of plugs via a single receptacle may include auto plug type detection and plug retention, whereby the type of plug, such as a C14 plug, C16 plug, C20 plug, or C22 plug, may be automatically detected upon insertion into the receptacle, is shown. In one embodiment, it is contemplated that the auto plug type detection may be able to detect one of a C14/C16 plug or one of a C20/C22 plug. It is contemplated that one or more grounded probes, metal leaf springs, or plungers, collectively referred as probe 180, may be employed to provide the auto plug type detection. The one or more probes 180 may either be all metal construction inherently grounded through an electromechanical connection to the ground terminal of a receptacle, or the probe 180 may be constructed as a plastic insulator with an electrically floating metal end that may be configured to complete an electrical circuit at a printed circuit board that is grounded or biased at a fixed DC voltage. [0089] It is contemplated that the auto plug type detection may provide several benefits. For example, auto plug type detection may support automatic outlet overcurrent alarm threshold configuration based upon IEC current rating of the detected plug type. Additionally, the auto plug type detection may support detection of a full engagement of the appliance coupler to alert of an unsecure mate, which may also lead to subsequent temperature rise at the appliance coupler’s male/female terminals interface due to high dissipation from high-impedance electrical connections supporting a heavy current draw. Further, the auto type detection may help may improve a commissioning process to troubleshoot a correct specificity of plug type required by server current ratings with respect to its prescribed power connection to a remote power distribution unit according to a specific outlet or receptacle position, number, and/or associated phase or line voltage. [0090] It is further contemplated that the auto plug type detection may be beneficial within the apparatus 100 which may include a power distribution unit (PDU) that automatically and safely switches power to one or more receptacles. The PDU may include processors, the processors utilizing control algorithms that manage bistable relays so that in-rush current may be minimized upon manual connection/disconnection of power to a load device. In particular, a relay contact status (open/closed) may be identified based on changes in RMS or peak voltage influenced by the load impedance. The PDU may be configured to predict timings for voltage zero-crossing events. In this manner and based on the determination of the relay contact status and voltage zero-crossing prediction in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure, open relay contacts may be identified and safely closed at voltage zero-crossing, as disclosed in US Serial No. 18/198,504 filed May 17, 2023, and owned by the same Applicant as the present application. The US Serial No. 18/198,504 filed May 17, 2023, is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. [0091] In an embodiment, insertion of a plug 192, which may be representative of a C20 plug or C22 plug, may create an electrical or mechanical change which may indicate a plug type. For example, a C20 plug or C22 plug 190 may force either a vertical or sideways displacement of a probe 180, as shown in FIG. 21. It is contemplated that a probe 180 may travel perpendicularly away from a bottom of the receptacle to interact with an exposed metal feature on a corresponding receiving device 185, such as a printed circuit board plated thru hole slot, test pad, terminal, and the like by creating a continuity with a corresponding node of the corresponding receiving device 185, as shown in an exemplary manner in FIG.5. The contact of the probe 180 to an electrical circuit of the corresponding receiving device 185 may change a reference voltage signal by a fixed amount which may be digitized by an analog-to-digital converter. When one or more corresponding nodes of the electrical circuit of the corresponding receiving device 185 may be effectively grounded by the probe 180, a composite voltage signal, less than the reference voltage, may be produced, which may have a unique magnitude related to a combination of grounded nodes. It is contemplated that a digitized ADC value may encode enumerated physical locations of C19/C20 or C21/C22 coupler connections. The apparatus 100 may further include a plug retention device 620. Advantageously, the plug retention device, or retention device 620, which may retain a plug and prevent a plug from being inadvertently detached and disconnected from the receptacle may be configured to retain any type of plug, including a C14, a C16, a C20, or C22 plug. [0092] In another embodiment, a C14 plug or C16 plug may force either a vertical or sideways displacement of another probe. The use of another probe for displacement by a C14 plug or C16 plug may ensure integrity of an electrical connection. If current is flowing in a receptacle, but neither probe has registered contact, then the plug retention may not be guaranteed. [0093] Referring to FIG.22, an apparatus 100 for providing power for multiple types of plugs via a single receptacle may include auto plug type detection and plug retention, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure is shown. As shown in FIG.22, a plug 192 may be inserted within a receptacle. The plug 192 may be a C14 plug or C16 plug. However, as shown in an exemplary manner, the probe 180 may not be forced to connect with a corresponding receiving device 185 if a single probe design is employed, wherein the probe 180 may be configured to be depressed if a C20 plug or C22 plug may be inserted as shown in an exemplary manner in FIG. 21. In such a situation, a C14 plug or C16 plug may be assumed by default, but may not be confirmed until current flow is measured with respect to the receptacle and a C20 plug or C22 plug is not detected in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure. If a C20 plug or C22 plug may be detected, then it may be established that a C20 plug or C22 plug may be inserted, regardless of current flow within the receptacle, in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure. [0094] In another embodiment of the disclosure, a probe configured to be depressed by a C20/C22 plug when inserted within the receptacle may be included, and another probe configured to be depressed by a C14/C16 plug when inserted within the receptacle, may be included as well. [0095] Referring generally to FIGS. 23-30, in another additional embodiment of the present disclosure, an apparatus 100 for providing power for multiple types of plugs via, each, single receptacle may include a plug retention device, or retention device 620, which may retain a plug and prevent a plug from being inadvertently detached and disconnected from the receptacle 114. It is contemplated that the retention device 620 may be configured to operate in addition to, or separate from, the auto plug detection as described with respect to FIGS.19-22. Referring specifically to FIG.23, the apparatus 100 for retaining a plug within a receptacle 114 may include a receptacle body 110 and a retention device 620. The retention device 620 may include a generally planar section 622, at least one protrusion 624 coupled to the generally planar section, and a handle portion 626 coupled to the generally planar section 622. The retention device 620 may be configured to retain a plug inserted within the receptacle body 110 by contact with a shroud of the plug. [0096] Referring to FIG.24, an apparatus 100 for retaining a plug, in a receptacle 114 with a retention device 620 inserted within receptacle body, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, is shown. It is contemplated that the retention device 620 may be placed between adjacent receptacles and each receptacle may include a separate retention device 620. [0097] Referring to FIGS.25A-25B, a retention device 620, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, shown. The retention device 620 may be formed of a variety of rigid materials, including plastic, composites, and/or metals. It is contemplated that the plastic may be engineering grade, and the plastic may be in compliance with local safety requirements. The retention device 620 may include a generally planar section 622 and at least one protrusion 624. It is contemplated that a first end of the generally planar section 622 may be secured within the receptacle body and a second end of the generally planar section 622 may be coupled to the at least one protrusion 624. In an embodiment, the second end of the generally planar section 622 may be angled toward the receptacle in which the retention device 620 may be configured to retain a plug. The retention device 620 may include a handle portion 626 coupled to the generally planar section. The handle portion 626 may allow a user to grasp the handle portion 624 and depress it away from the plug and/or receptacle in order to allow the plug to be removed from the receptacle. The handle portion 626 may include a curved frame which may allow additional space for finger access. [0098] Referring to FIG.26, a side view of an apparatus 100 including a C14 or C16 plug 192, retained to a receptacle by a retention device 620, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, is shown. The apparatus 100 for retaining a plug within a receptacle may include the retention device 620 which may be configured to secure any type of plug, including a C14 plug, C16 plug, C20 plug, or C22 plug. In the embodiment as shown, the plug 192 may be representative of a C14 or C16 plug. In an embodiment, the one or more protrusions 624 of the retention device may contact a shroud of the plug 192 to prevent the plug from being disconnected from the receptacle. It is contemplated that the retention device 620 may be configured to bend and/or move away from the plug 192 and/or receptacle whereby the one or more protrusions 624 may no longer be in contact with the shroud of the plug 192. If a user wishes to disconnect the plug 192 from the receptacle, the user may use one or more fingers to grasp the handle portion 626 of the retention device 620 away from the plug 192 and/or receptacle and then grasp the plug 192 to disconnect the plug 192 from the receptacle. [0099] Referring to FIG.27, a side view of an apparatus 100 including a C20 plug or C22 plug 190, retained to a receptacle by a retention device 620, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, is shown. The apparatus 100 for retaining a plug within a receptacle may include the retention device 620 which may be configured to secure any type of plug, including a C14 plug, C16 plug, C20 plug, or C22 plug. In the embodiment as shown, the plug 190 may be representative of a C20 plug or C22 plug. In an embodiment, the one or more protrusions 624 of the retention device may contact a shroud of the plug 190 to prevent the plug from being disconnected from the receptacle. It is contemplated that the retention device 620 may be configured to bend and/or move away from the plug 192 and/or receptacle whereby the one or more protrusions 624 may no longer be in contact with the shroud of the plug 192. If a user wishes to disconnect the plug 190 from the receptacle, the user may use one or more fingers to grasp the handle portion 626 of the retention device 620 away from the plug 190 and/or receptacle and then grasp the plug 190 to disconnect the plug 190 from the receptacle. As shown in FIG. 27, as compared to FIG.26, a C20 plug or C22 plug may be larger in size and/or diameter than a C14/C16 plug. Therefore, the retention device 620 may have more bend away from the receptacle when retaining a C20/C22 plug than a C14/C16 plug. However, it is contemplated that retention device 620 may adequately retain C14/C16 plugs and/or C20/C22 plugs. [00100] Referring to FIGS.28-29, an apparatus 100 including one or more receptacles wherein each, single receptacle 114, is configured to connect with multiple types of plugs, with a plug being retained by a retention device 620, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, is shown. In an embodiment of the disclosure, the apparatus 100 may include a power distribution unit which may include one or more receptacles 114. It is contemplated that multiple receptacles for retaining a plug which may be employed in a power distribution unit to prevent unintended disconnection of a plug from a receptacle may be located on the power distribution unit. As shown in FIGS. 28-29, plug 192 may be representative of a C14/C16 plug. However, as described throughout this application, receptacle 114 may be configured to connect with any type of plug, including a C14 plug, a C16 plug, a C20 plug, or a C22 plug. [00101] The apparatus 100 may include numbering along one side of the power distribution unit whereby a number may be associated with each receptacle 114. It is also contemplated that that each retention device 620 may be a unique color in order to more quickly identify a particular receptacle or plug. Alternatively, each retention device 620 may include a number and may be formed of a translucent material as shown in FIG.30. [00102] The apparatus 100 as shown in FIGS.28-29 may further include one or more visual indicators. The one or more visual indicators may include a light pipe ring and/or a flag feature which may be adjacent or in proximity to each receptacle 114 of the apparatus 100 to allow ease of identifying receptacle status via coupling of a RBG light emitting diode (LED) output and enumeration. [00103] Also, apparatus 100 may include a bezel which surrounds each receptacle 114 or the retention device 620 may be formed of a translucent material. It is contemplated that one or more lightguides or light pipe rings may be employed whereby individual retention guide 620 (as shown in an exemplary manner in FIG.30) may be formed of a translucent material and may be lit a particular color in order to provide status or alert information. Further, color may be employed to assist users with troubleshooting and/or maintenance to help identify a particular receptacle which may be faulty. Also, color may be employed to help load balance the system where particular receptacles that may have capacity may include a particular color and receptacles which may have limited capacity may include a different color. When a power distribution unit is installed, the number of outlets may be difficult to know. It is contemplated that color may be employed to help with numbering/identifying receptacles of a power distribution unit. [00104] Further, it is contemplated that the visual indicators may provide adaptable colorful status indications, such as phase, current draw, switch on/off, circuit breaker, and alternating orientation of a bezel 'flag' to indicate even/odd outlet enumeration, making outlet identification easier regardless of side installation and orientation within a rack. [00105] It is believed that the present disclosure and many of its attendant advantages will be understood by the foregoing description, and it will be apparent that various changes may be made in the form, construction and arrangement of the components without departing from the disclosed subject matter or without sacrificing all of its material advantages. The form described is merely explanatory, and it is the intention of the following claims to encompass and include such changes. [00106] Those having skill in the art will recognize that the state of the art has progressed to the point where there is little distinction left between hardware and software implementations of aspects of systems; the use of hardware or software is generally (but not always, in that in certain contexts the choice between hardware and software can become significant) a design choice representing cost vs. efficiency tradeoffs. Those having skill in the art will appreciate that there are various vehicles by which processes and/or systems and/or other technologies described herein can be implemented (e.g., hardware, software, and/or firmware), and that the preferred vehicle will vary with the context in which the processes and/or systems and/or other technologies are deployed. For example, if an implementer determines that speed and accuracy are paramount, the implementer may opt for a mainly hardware and/or firmware vehicle; alternatively, if flexibility is paramount, the implementer may opt for a mainly software implementation; or, yet again alternatively, the implementer may opt for some combination of hardware, software, and/or firmware. Hence, there are several possible vehicles by which the processes and/or devices and/or other technologies described herein may be implemented, none of which is inherently superior to the other in that any vehicle to be utilized is a choice dependent upon the context in which the vehicle will be deployed and the specific concerns (e.g., speed, flexibility, or predictability) of the implementer, any of which may vary. Those skilled in the art will recognize that optical aspects of implementations will typically employ optically-oriented hardware, software, and or firmware. [00107] The foregoing detailed description has set forth various embodiments of the devices and/or processes via the use of block diagrams, flowcharts, and/or examples. Insofar as such block diagrams, flowcharts, and/or examples contain one or more functions and/or operations, it will be understood by those within the art that each function and/or operation within such block diagrams, flowcharts, or examples can be implemented, individually and/or collectively, by a wide range of hardware, software, firmware, or virtually any combination thereof. In one embodiment, several portions of the subject matter described herein may be implemented via Application Specific Integrated Circuits (ASICs), Field Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs), digital signal processors (DSPs), or other integrated formats. However, those skilled in the art will recognize that some aspects of the embodiments disclosed herein, in whole or in part, can be equivalently implemented in integrated circuits, as one or more computer programs running on one or more computers (e.g., as one or more programs running on one or more computer systems), as one or more programs running on one or more processors (e.g., as one or more programs running on one or more microprocessors), as firmware, or as virtually any combination thereof, and that designing the circuitry and/or writing the code for the software and/or firmware would be well within the skill of one of skill in the art in light of this disclosure. In addition, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the mechanisms of the subject matter described herein are capable of being distributed as a program product in a variety of forms, and that an illustrative embodiment of the subject matter described herein applies regardless of the particular type of signal bearing medium used to actually carry out the distribution. Examples of a signal bearing medium include, but are not limited to, the following: a recordable type medium such as a floppy disk, a hard disk drive, a Compact Disc (CD), a Digital Video Disk (DVD), a digital tape, a computer memory, etc.; and a transmission type medium such as a digital and/or an analog communication medium (e.g., a fiber optic cable, a waveguide, a wired communications link, a wireless communication link, etc.). [00108] In a general sense, those skilled in the art will recognize that the various aspects described herein which can be implemented, individually and/or collectively, by a wide range of hardware, software, firmware, or any combination thereof can be viewed as being composed of various types of "electrical circuitry." Consequently, as used herein "electrical circuitry" includes, but is not limited to, electrical circuitry having at least one discrete electrical circuit, electrical circuitry having at least one integrated circuit, electrical circuitry having at least one application specific integrated circuit, electrical circuitry forming a general purpose computing device configured by a computer program (e.g., a general purpose computer configured by a computer program which at least partially carries out processes and/or devices described herein, or a microprocessor configured by a computer program which at least partially carries out processes and/or devices described herein), electrical circuitry forming a memory device (e.g., forms of random access memory), and/or electrical circuitry forming a communications device (e.g., a modem, communications switch, or optical-electrical equipment). Those having skill in the art will recognize that the subject matter described herein may be implemented in an analog or digital fashion or some combination thereof. [00109] Those having skill in the art will recognize that it is common within the art to describe devices and/or processes in the fashion set forth herein, and thereafter use engineering practices to integrate such described devices and/or processes into data processing systems. That is, at least a portion of the devices and/or processes described herein can be integrated into a data processing system via a reasonable amount of experimentation. Those having skill in the art will recognize that a typical data processing system generally includes one or more of a system unit housing, a video display device, a memory such as volatile and non-volatile memory, processors such as microprocessors and digital signal processors, computational entities such as operating systems, drivers, graphical user interfaces, and applications programs, one or more interaction devices, such as a touch pad or screen, and/or control systems including feedback loops and control motors (e.g., feedback for sensing position and/or velocity; control motors for moving and/or adjusting components and/or quantities). A typical data processing system may be implemented utilizing any suitable commercially available components, such as those typically found in data computing/communication and/or network computing/communication systems. [00110] The herein described subject matter sometimes illustrates different components contained within, or connected with, different other components. It is to be understood that such depicted architectures are merely exemplary, and that in fact many other architectures can be implemented which achieve the same functionality. In a conceptual sense, any arrangement of components to achieve the same functionality is effectively "associated" such that the desired functionality is achieved. Hence, any two components herein combined to achieve a particular functionality can be seen as "associated with" each other such that the desired functionality is achieved, irrespective of architectures or intermedial components. Likewise, any two components so associated can also be viewed as being "operably connected", or "operably coupled", to each other to achieve the desired functionality, and any two components capable of being so associated can also be viewed as being "operably couplable", to each other to achieve the desired functionality. Specific examples of operably couplable include but are not limited to physically mateable and/or physically interacting components and/or wirelessly interactable and/or wirelessly interacting components and/or logically interacting and/or logically interactable components. [00111] While particular aspects of the present subject matter described herein have been shown and described, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that, based upon the teachings herein, changes and modifications may be made without departing from the subject matter described herein and its broader aspects and, therefore, the appended claims are to encompass within their scope all such changes and modifications as are within the true spirit and scope of the subject matter described herein. Furthermore, it is to be understood that the invention is defined by the appended claims.

Claims

CLAIMS What is claimed is: 1. An apparatus, comprising: a receptacle, the receptacle including at least three electrical terminals contained within a receptacle body, wherein the at least three electrical terminals of the receptacle are configured to connect with one plug of multiple types of plugs, the multiple types of plugs including a C14 plug, C16 plug, C20 plug, or a C22 plug, the receptacle body including a flange at a base of the receptacle body to provide a more secure fit between the receptacle body and the one plug of multiple types of plugs, the multiple types of plugs including the C14 plug, C16 plug, C20 plug, or C22 plug, the receptacle body further including a probe which is configured to be forced to contact a corresponding receiving device within the receptacle body when the one plug of multiple types of plugs, the multiple types of plugs including the C14 plug, C16 plug, C20 plug, or C22 plug is inserted within the receptacle.

2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein a shroud of the C20 plug or the C22 plug surrounds the flange of the receptacle body.

3. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein an exterior edge of a shroud of the C14 plug or the C16 plug connects with a top side of the flange of the receptacle body.

4. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein contact of the probe with the corresponding receiving device is configured to cause a change of a reference voltage signal of an electrical circuit by a fixed amount which is digitized by an analog-to-digital converter.

5. The apparatus of claim 4, wherein a corresponding node of the of the corresponding receiving device is configured to be grounded by the probe, and a composite voltage signal less than the reference voltage is produced, the composite voltage signal has a unique magnitude related to the corresponding node.

6. The apparatus of claim 5, wherein the corresponding receiving device is a test pad or terminal of the electrical circuit.

7. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising: a retention device, the retention device configured to prevent the one plug of multiple types of plugs, the multiple types of plugs including the C14 plug, C16 plug, C20 plug, or C22 plug from being inadvertently disconnected from the receptacle when inserted into the receptacle.

8. The apparatus of claim 7, wherein the retention device includes a face portion and at least one prong, each prong of the at least one prong including at least one barb, wherein the retention device is configured to retain the one plug of multiple types of plugs, the multiple types of plugs including the C14 plug, C16 plug, C20 plug, or C22 plug from the at least one barb of each prong of the at least one prong of the retention device.

9. The apparatus of claim 8, wherein each prong of the at least one prong of retention device includes a ridge located on an opposite side of the at least one barb.

10. The apparatus as claimed in claim 9, wherein the receptacle body includes a ledge configured to contact the ridge of each prong and prevent removal of the retention device from the receptacle body.

11. The apparatus of claim 7, wherein the retention device includes a generally planar section, one or more protrusions coupled to the generally planar section, and a handle portion coupled to the generally planar section.

12. The apparatus of claim 11, wherein the retention device is configured to retain the one plug of multiple types of plugs, the multiple types of plugs including the C14 plug, C16 plug, C20 plug, or C22 plug by the one or more protrusions of the retention device.

13. An apparatus, comprising: a receptacle, the receptacle including at least three electrical terminals contained within a receptacle body, wherein the at least three electrical terminals of the receptacle are configured to connect with one plug of multiple types of plugs, the multiple types of plugs including a C14 plug, C16 plug, C20 plug, or a C22 plug, the receptacle body including a flange at a base of the receptacle body to provide a more secure fit between the receptacle body and the one plug of multiple types of plugs, the multiple types of plugs including the C14 plug, C16 plug, C20 plug, or C22 plug, the receptacle body further including a probe which is configured to be forced to contact a corresponding receiving device within the receptacle body when the one plug of multiple types of plugs, the multiple types of plugs including the C14 plug, C16 plug, C20 plug, or C22 plug is inserted within the receptacle; and a retention device, the retention device configured to prevent the one plug of multiple types of plugs, the multiple types of plugs including the C14 plug, C16 plug, C20 plug, or C22 plug from being inadvertently disconnected from the receptacle.

14. The apparatus of claim 13, wherein a shroud of the C20 plug or the C22 plug surrounds the flange of the receptacle body.

15. The apparatus of claim 13, wherein an exterior edge of a shroud of the C14 plug or the C16 plug connects with a top side of the flange of the receptacle body.

16. The apparatus of claim 13, wherein contact of the probe with the corresponding receiving device is configured to cause a change of a reference voltage signal of an electrical circuit by a fixed amount which is digitized by an analog-to-digital converter.

17. The apparatus of claim 16, wherein a corresponding node of the of the corresponding receiving device is configured to be grounded by the probe, and a composite voltage signal less than the reference voltage is produced, the composite voltage signal has a unique magnitude related to the corresponding node.

18. The apparatus of claim 17, wherein the corresponding receiving device is a test pad or terminal of the electrical circuit.

19. The apparatus of claim 13, wherein the retention device includes a face portion and at least one prong, each prong of the at least one prong including at least one barb, wherein the retention device is configured to retain the one plug of multiple types of plugs, the multiple types of plugs including the C14 plug, C16 plug, C20 plug, or C22 plug from the at least one barb of each prong of the at least one prong of the retention device.

20. The apparatus of claim 19, wherein each prong of the at least one prong of retention device includes a ridge located on an opposite side of the at least one barb.

21. The apparatus as claimed in claim 20, wherein the receptacle body includes a ledge configured to contact the ridge of each prong and prevent removal of the retention device from the receptacle body.

22. The apparatus of claim 13, wherein the retention device includes a generally planar section, one or more protrusions coupled to the generally planar section, and a handle portion coupled to the generally planar section.

23. The apparatus of claim 22, wherein the retention device is configured to retain the one plug of multiple types of plugs, the multiple types of plugs including the C14 plug, C16 plug, C20 plug, or C22 plug by the one or more protrusions of the retention device.