Glossary - bachmann24.com

Fire protection / temperature resistance

In work environments with high electrical load, care must be taken to ensure that power strips:

• temperature and fire resistant (e.g. flame-retardant plastic housing),
• Do not operate behind furniture or in hollow spaces (avoid heat build-up),
• be installed exposed and ventilated .

Note : Operating multiple power strips ("strip within a strip") is not permitted and poses a significant fire hazard. This may also result in the loss of insurance coverage in the event of damage.

CE marking

General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR)

The General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) is an EU-wide regulation for the protection of personal data. Even though power strips themselves do not process personal data, their use in a corporate environment is indirectly subject to data protection requirements. For example, USB charging ports in publicly accessible areas must not become potential gateways for unauthorized data transmission or access.

DGUV Regulation 3 – Electrical Safety Test

According to DGUV Regulation 3 (formerly BGV A3), electrical equipment such as power strips must be regularly inspected by a qualified electrician. Bachmann points out the following legally recommended inspection intervals:

• Permanently screwed / fixed power strips : Must be checked every 4 years for proper condition and protective function in accordance with DIN VDE 0100-600 .
• Portable power strips (e.g. with power cable and plug): Must be subjected to a safety inspection at least once a year – even in offices or workshops.

These tests may only be performed by a qualified electrician . Further information and a manufacturer's declaration in accordance with DGUV V3 can be found in the download area under " Manufacturer Declarations ."

On/off switch

A central toggle switch completely disconnects the power supply to all connected devices. This effectively prevents unnecessary energy consumption in standby mode. Furthermore, the power supply can be easily and quickly turned off when not in use – practical for the office, living room, or workshop.

EMV compliance

Die Steckdosenleisten entsprechen den gesetzlichen Anforderungen zur elektromagnetischen Verträglichkeit. Sie verursachen keine störenden Abstrahlungen und sind zugleich resistent gegenüber Fremdstörungen – ein Muss im modernen, technikintensiven Umfeld.

Residual current device (RCD)

A residual current device that instantly interrupts the flow of electricity in the event of a power leak, e.g., due to damaged cables or moisture. This function reliably protects against electrical accidents and is particularly important in wet rooms, outdoor areas, or safety-critical applications.

Total power (watts) 

The maximum permissible total power of all connected devices. Exceeding this value can lead to overheating, short circuits, or even fires. A correctly sized power strip helps prevent these risks and ensures safe continuous operation.

Cable length

Bachmann offers various power cable lengths – typically 1.5 m, 3 m, or 5 m. This allows the power strip to be positioned flexibly, even if the wall outlet is far away. Ideal for open-plan offices, home offices, or flexible workspaces.

Cable type (e.g. H05VV-F 3G1.5)

Describes the structure of the supply cable: e.g., three-core PVC cable with a 1.5 mm² conductor cross-section – designed for safe and long-lasting operation under high loads. This standard is widely used in Europe and ensures consistently high quality.

Child protection

A mechanical safety feature in the sockets that prevents children from accidentally inserting objects into the openings. This integrated safety feature is particularly relevant in households with small children or in educational institutions and provides additional safety in everyday life.

Mounting type

Depending on the model, Bachmann power strips can be installed in a variety of ways: as a freestanding unit, recessed into conference tables, wall-mounted, or installed in standard 19" racks. This flexible use makes them equally suitable for offices, workshops, or server rooms.

Nominal voltage (volts)

The standard operating voltage is 230 volts – consistent with the mains voltage in Germany and much of Europe. This voltage is crucial for the safe operation of all connected devices and must comply with the device specifications.

Rated current (amperes) 

The maximum electrical current that the power strip can safely carry. In most cases, this value is 16 amps – sufficient for operating multiple devices simultaneously. This corresponds to a total power output of up to 3,680 watts and guarantees high resilience for daily use.

RCM

A permanently secure power supply is essential in data centers and server rooms. RCM (Residual Current Monitoring) devices continuously monitor fault, compensating, and insulation currents, enabling early detection of electrical faults before failures occur. A major advantage: During legally required periodic tests according to DIN VDE 0105-100, RCM eliminates the need to shut down the system, as the insulation resistance is continuously monitored.

Protection class (IP class)

Indicates the environments in which the bar can be operated safely: 

• IP20 : Protection against solid foreign bodies >12.5 mm – ideal for dry indoor areas. 
• IP44 : Additional protection against splash water – suitable for kitchens, workshops or outdoor areas with a cover.

Protection class & protective conductor connection

Power strips are usually manufactured to protection class I , meaning they require a functioning protective conductor connection (grounding) . If this protective conductor is not connected correctly (e.g., due to defective or tampered cables), a fault can result in a fatal electric shock.

Protective contact socket (Schuko)

The socket, standardized in Germany and Europe, features an integrated protective conductor for reliable grounding. It offers increased protection against electric shock and is often used multiple times in Bachmann power strips. Schuko sockets are robust, compliant with standards, and enable the safe use of a wide variety of electrical devices.

Socket orientation

Depending on the model, the sockets are arranged either straight or at an angle (usually 35° or 45°). This angled arrangement makes it easier to connect multiple large power adapters, such as those commonly found in routers, power adapters, or chargers, at the same time.

Power strip

A power strip with multiple grounded outlets that allows multiple electrical devices to be powered simultaneously from a single power source. Typically used on desks, in kitchens, offices, or even in server racks. This solution significantly simplifies cable management and provides centralized power in a wide variety of environments.

Surge protection

An integrated protection mechanism that protects electrical devices from sudden voltage spikes—for example, those caused by lightning strikes, power fluctuations, or switching operations. It's especially recommended in homes or offices with sensitive electronics such as computers, routers, or entertainment devices.

USB port / USB charging function 

Modern power strips with integrated USB charging ports offer a convenient way to charge mobile devices such as smartphones, tablets, e-readers, or even headphones directly via the strip – without the need for an additional power adapter. Both USB-A and USB-C ports are often used, making the strips suitable for a wide variety of devices.

USB output power

The performance of the integrated USB charging ports varies depending on the model:

• USB-A : Usually 5 V / 2.1 A (approx. 10.5 W) – ideal for smartphones and smaller devices.
• USB-C : Significantly higher power up to 60W with Power Delivery (PD), suitable for tablets, laptops or larger devices.
• Combination ports (USB-A + USB-C) enable flexible charging of multiple devices simultaneously – convenient and future-proof.

VDE & GS certification

Many Bachmann models bear the VDE Institute 's seal of approval and the GS ("Tested Safety") mark. These markings certify that the products are safe, of high quality, and manufactured according to strictly tested standards.

Angle of the sockets

Some models have slots rotated by 35°, 45°, or even 90° to prevent large power supplies or right-angle plugs from blocking each other. This allows multiple devices to be plugged in side by side without any problems, even in tight spaces – ideal for bulky adapters or power supplies.