Neutrik NAC3FXXB-W-S powerCON Power-Out Cable Connector – 6–12mm Cable
Build and maintain professional locking AC power cables with the Neutrik NAC3FXXB-W-S powerCON Power-Out Cable Connector, part of Neutrik’s current-generation powerCON XX Series.
The NAC3FXXB-W-S is the grey, mechanically keyed Power-Out version of the powerCON XX cable-connector family. It combines a rugged locking design, three-conductor single-phase power connection, screw-terminal termination, professional cable strain relief and improved kink protection for cables with an outside diameter from 6mm to 12mm.
Neutrik specifies the connector for Line, Neutral and Protective Earth (2 + PE) and rates the current European/IEC version at 16 A / 250 V AC under EN 60320-1 with Circuit Breaking Capability (CBC) when correctly used with the appropriate current-generation powerCON XX receptacle.
For professional entertainment and production environments, the NAC3FXXB-W-S is particularly relevant across:
- Stage lighting
- Professional audio
- Powered loudspeakers
- Lighting fixtures
- LED systems
- AV equipment
- Touring racks
- Power distribution within compatible equipment systems
- Theatre
- Concert touring
- Festivals
- Broadcast
- Film and television
- Corporate AV
- Production companies
- Equipment-hire businesses
Whether you are building a compatible power-through lead, replacing an older grey powerCON connector, servicing touring inventory or maintaining venue workshop stock, the NAC3FXXB-W-S provides current-generation Neutrik powerCON connectivity designed for professional production use.
Genuine Neutrik powerCON XX Series
The NAC3FXXB-W-S belongs to Neutrik’s current powerCON XX Series.
Neutrik describes powerCON as a locking three-conductor AC equipment-connection system incorporating:
- Line
- Neutral
- Pre-mating Protective Earth
The current FXXA/FXXB generation is designed to provide a rugged locking alternative to conventional appliance couplers in suitable professional equipment.
Current-generation improvements include:
- IEC EN 60320-1 compliance
- Circuit Breaking Capability with compatible XX-series receptacles
- Ergonomic slip-resistant housing
- Twist-lock connection
- Dedicated power-in and power-out keying
- Professional strain relief
- Improved cable kink protection
- 6–12mm and 10–16mm cable-size versions
Grey Power-Out Connector
The NAC3FXXB-W-S is the grey Power-Out connector.
Neutrik differentiates the two sides of the blue/grey powerCON system using both colour and mechanical keying:
Blue – Power In
Grey – Power Out
The corresponding blue connector is the:
NAC3FXXA-W-S – Power In
The grey NAC3FXXB-W-S is therefore intended for the power-output side of compatible powerCON systems.
The two versions are intentionally keyed differently so they cannot simply be interchanged.
What “Power Out” Means
Power Out refers to the connector’s intended role within a compatible powerCON system.
A typical professional installation may have equipment incorporating a power input and a separate power-through or power-output connection.
The grey power-out connector may be used as part of a suitable cable assembly connected to a compatible grey powerCON appliance outlet.
This is often encountered on professional equipment designed to provide onward power to another device.
Examples may include compatible:
- Lighting fixtures
- LED fixtures
- Powered loudspeakers
- AV equipment
- Touring equipment
- Production hardware
Always follow the equipment manufacturer’s instructions regarding:
- Maximum permitted load
- Daisy-chain limits
- Supply voltage
- Cable size
- Connector type
- Protective Earth
- Maximum number of linked devices
The presence of a Power-Out connector does not mean an unlimited number of devices may be connected together.
Different Keying Prevents Power-In / Power-Out Intermating
Neutrik specifically uses different mechanical keying for the blue and grey versions.
This helps prevent:
- Blue Power-In cable connectors being connected to grey Power-Out receptacles
- Grey Power-Out cable connectors being connected to blue Power-In receptacles
This physical distinction is an important part of the powerCON blue/grey system.
Do not modify or defeat the keying system.
Always select the correct connector according to the equipment connection being serviced.
Circuit Breaking Capability – CBC
One of the major differences between the current FXX generation and older powerCON connectors is Circuit Breaking Capability.
The NAC3FXXB-W-S provides CBC when correctly mated with compatible current-generation powerCON XX Series receptacles.
For the grey Power-Out side, this includes the current NAC3MPXXB appliance outlet connector.
Current powerCON XX appliance couplers are designed to be engaged or disengaged during normal use while live or under load when used with the corresponding FXX-series cable connectors.
This is a significant development compared with the older NAC3FCB generation.
CBC Depends on the Mating Receptacle
An important qualification is that CBC is a system characteristic, not something the cable connector provides regardless of what it is plugged into.
Neutrik states that current FXX cable connectors remain mating-compatible with existing legacy Neutrik blue and grey receptacles already in the market.
However:
Hot plugging / CBC is only permitted with the current IEC EN 60320-1 compliant powerCON XX receptacles such as NAC3MPXXA and NAC3MPXXB.
If the NAC3FXXB-W-S is connected to an older legacy receptacle, do not assume the resulting connection suddenly gains CBC capability.
This is particularly important for:
- Hire companies
- Touring companies
- Older theatres
- Production warehouses
- Venues
- Equipment repair technicians
where current and legacy powerCON equipment may exist side by side.
Replacement for the Discontinued NAC3FCB
The older Neutrik NAC3FCB grey Power-Out connector is now discontinued.
Neutrik identifies:
NAC3FXXB-W-S – 6–12mm cable O.D.
and:
NAC3FXXB-W-L – 10–16mm cable O.D.
as its current direct replacement / successor products.
This makes the NAC3FXXB-W-S particularly useful for customers searching for:
- NAC3FCB replacement
- Grey powerCON replacement
- Old powerCON Power-Out connector
- Current Neutrik Power-Out connector
- Replacement touring powerCON connector
For legacy cables originally fitted with an NAC3FCB, confirm both cable diameter and conductor size before choosing the replacement.
Important Difference from the Old NAC3FCB
The current NAC3FXXB-W-S should not simply inherit all specifications from the discontinued NAC3FCB.
The older NAC3FCB was specified as a connector without breaking capacity and Neutrik explicitly stated that it must not be connected or disconnected under load or live.
The current FXXB generation is different.
When paired with the proper current powerCON XX CBC receptacle, it forms an IEC EN 60320-1 compliant appliance coupler with breaking capability.
This is why product descriptions for old FCA/FCB connectors should not simply be copied onto the new FXX generation.
6–12mm Cable Outside Diameter
The W-S version is designed for cables with an outside diameter of:
6mm to 12mm
This is one of the most important purchasing specifications.
Neutrik also manufactures the larger:
NAC3FXXB-W-L – 10–16mm cable O.D.
Always measure or confirm the actual outside diameter of the intended cable before selecting the connector.
Correct cable diameter allows the connector’s strain-relief system to grip the cable jacket as intended.
NAC3FXXB-W-S vs NAC3FXXB-W-L
The primary difference is cable capacity:
NAC3FXXB-W-S: 6–12mm cable O.D.
NAC3FXXB-W-L: 10–16mm cable O.D.
There is an overlap from 10–12mm.
Selection should therefore consider:
- Cable outside diameter
- Cable jacket construction
- Conductor size
- Strain-relief fit
- Equipment requirements
The W-S version is the more natural choice for many common professional flexible production-power cables within the 6–12mm range.
1.5–2.5mm² Conductor Capacity
Neutrik specifies:
Wire Size: 1.5–2.5mm²
AWG: 16–12 AWG
Both conductor size and overall cable diameter must be considered.
A cable may physically fit the rear entry while having unsuitable conductors—or suitable conductors while having an outside diameter that does not fit the strain-relief system correctly.
Select the complete cable construction appropriately.
Screw-Terminal Assembly
The NAC3FXXB-W-S uses screw-type terminals for the electrical conductors.
This allows professional termination of:
- Line
- Neutral
- Protective Earth
without soldering.
Because the connector forms part of a mains-voltage cable assembly, correct preparation, termination, strain relief and testing are critical.
Power-lead construction and repairs must comply with applicable electrical requirements.
Protective Earth – 2 + PE
The NAC3FXXB-W-S has:
2 + PE electrical contacts
for:
- Line
- Neutral
- Protective Earth
Neutrik’s powerCON system incorporates a pre-mating Protective Earth contact.
Protective Earth continuity is a critical safety function in equipment requiring an earthed supply.
Completed cables should therefore be correctly wired and appropriately tested before entering service.
Never bypass or repurpose the Protective Earth contact.
16 A / 250 V AC European Rating
Neutrik currently specifies:
EN 60320-1: 16 A / 250 V AC, CBC
for the current NAC3FXXB-W-S.
This is particularly important for Australian buyers.
Older powerCON literature is frequently associated with 20 A / 250 V, because the discontinued NAC3FCB carried different approvals and ratings.
The current NAC3FXXB-W-S should not simply be advertised as a 20 A / 250 V connector.
For an Australian-facing listing, the clearest principal rating is:
16 A / 250 V AC – EN 60320-1, CBC
with the other regional ratings presented separately.
North American Ratings
Neutrik currently specifies the following North American ratings:
cUL 60320-1: 20 A / 127 V AC
UL USA 498: 20 A / 127 V AC
UL CA 498: 20 A / 127 V AC
These ratings should not be rewritten as 20 A / 250 V.
Voltage and current ratings are tied to the applicable certification system and should be presented accurately.
Contact Resistance
Neutrik specifies:
Contact Resistance: ≤2 mΩ
Low connector resistance is important in mains-power connections because unnecessary resistance can contribute to:
- Voltage drop
- Heat generation
- Reduced electrical efficiency
The complete power lead’s performance also depends on:
- Cable conductor size
- Cable length
- Copper quality
- Terminal preparation
- Connector condition
- Equipment load
Copper-Alloy Silver-Plated Contacts
Neutrik specifies:
Contacts: Copper alloy
Contact Plating: Silver
These form the electrical interface for the Line, Neutral and Protective Earth connections.
Inspect connectors regularly and remove damaged components from service.
Signs requiring attention may include:
- Heat damage
- Discolouration
- Cracking
- Damaged locking components
- Loose terminations
- Excessive mechanical wear
- Poor mating
Dielectric Strength and Insulation Resistance
Neutrik specifies:
Dielectric Strength: >3 kV AC after mating cycles
Insulation Resistance: >10 GΩ initially
These form part of the electrical performance specification of the current NAC3FXXB-W-S.
Correct assembly remains essential to achieving the intended performance of the completed lead.
More Than 5,000 Mating Cycles
Neutrik specifies a mechanical lifetime of:
More than 5,000 mating cycles
for the current FXX cable connector.
This makes it particularly appropriate for professional entertainment environments where power leads may be connected and disconnected repeatedly.
Applications include:
- Touring
- Theatre
- Production hire
- Festivals
- Broadcast
- Film and television
- Corporate AV
- Permanent venues
Actual service life will also depend on handling, contamination, mating connectors, cable assembly and maintenance.
Professional Lighting
Power-through connections are particularly common across professional entertainment lighting equipment.
Compatible devices may provide:
- Blue power input
- Grey power output
allowing suitable fixtures to be linked according to the manufacturer’s permitted loading limits.
Potential equipment may include:
- LED luminaires
- Moving lights
- Wash lights
- Effects fixtures
- Architectural fixtures
- Touring lighting systems
The NAC3FXXB-W-S is specifically the grey Power-Out cable connector within this system.
Always calculate and observe the equipment manufacturer’s maximum permitted through-current and maximum number of linked fixtures.
Touring Lighting Systems
Touring lighting packages frequently use locking power connectors because equipment is repeatedly:
- Installed
- Powered
- Packed
- Transported
- Reinstalled
A mechanically retained power connector can reduce accidental disconnection compared with suitable non-locking alternatives.
The NAC3FXXB-W-S is particularly relevant when maintaining professional equipment fitted with compatible grey Power-Out receptacles.
Professional Audio
powerCON connections are also encountered across professional audio equipment.
Potential compatible equipment includes:
- Powered loudspeakers
- Amplifiers
- Audio racks
- DSP systems
- Touring production equipment
Where compatible equipment provides a grey power output for onward distribution, the NAC3FXXB-W-S may form part of the appropriate cable system.
Again, always follow the equipment manufacturer’s maximum downstream-load requirements.
Powered Loudspeaker Systems
Some professional powered loudspeaker systems provide locking power input and output connections so multiple compatible devices can be linked.
This can simplify cable distribution across:
- PA systems
- Monitor systems
- Delay speakers
- Fill speakers
- Corporate AV
- Temporary installations
Do not assume that every powerCON-equipped loudspeaker provides identical output capacity.
Maximum downstream current depends on the equipment design and must be respected.
Theatre and Performing Arts
Theatre environments may use powerCON-equipped:
- Lighting fixtures
- Audio systems
- Video systems
- Stage equipment
- Touring productions
- AV hardware
Keeping both blue Power-In and grey Power-Out replacement connectors available can be useful for suitably equipped technical workshops servicing professional inventory.
Because these components form part of mains-voltage cable systems, repairs must be completed and tested in accordance with applicable requirements.
Concert Touring
Touring power leads are regularly:
- Deployed
- Connected
- Disconnected
- Coiled
- Packed
- Loaded
- Transported
- Unpacked
- Reinstalled
The NAC3FXXB-W-S incorporates:
- Twist locking
- Professional strain relief
- Slip-resistant housing
- Improved kink protection
- More than 5,000 specified mating cycles
making it well suited to compatible touring power systems.
Film and Television
Professional film and television environments may use powerCON-equipped equipment throughout:
- Studio lighting
- Location lighting
- LED systems
- AV equipment
- Video systems
- Production racks
- Broadcast facilities
The grey Power-Out version is particularly relevant where compatible equipment provides an onward power connection.
Only use cables and connectors according to the equipment manufacturer’s electrical requirements.
Broadcast
Broadcast facilities may incorporate powerCON throughout:
- Studio lighting
- Audio systems
- Production stages
- AV equipment
- Temporary broadcast systems
- Live music production
The locking format and field-serviceable design make powerCON useful across professional systems that undergo regular setup and maintenance.
Festivals and Major Events
Temporary event systems may contain significant quantities of compatible powerCON-equipped equipment across:
- Lighting
- Audio
- AV
- Video
- Production racks
- Effects systems
Power distribution for major events should always form part of an appropriately designed and managed electrical system.
Connector type alone does not determine circuit capacity.
Corporate AV and Exhibitions
powerCON is also encountered across professional corporate-event and exhibition equipment.
Potential applications include:
- Lighting fixtures
- AV racks
- Displays
- Powered audio
- Production hardware
- Exhibition systems
AV companies maintaining substantial inventories may therefore use NAC3FXXB-W-S connectors for compatible cable manufacture and repairs.
Equipment-Hire Companies
Hire businesses may operate equipment spanning several generations of powerCON.
The NAC3FXXB-W-S is useful for:
- Replacement cable connectors
- Current-generation cable manufacture
- Touring package maintenance
- Workshop stock
- Legacy cable refurbishment
Its backwards mating compatibility is particularly useful where a fleet includes older Neutrik grey chassis receptacles.
However, technicians must remember:
Legacy mating compatibility does not automatically provide CBC.
CBC depends on pairing the cable connector with an appropriate current-generation powerCON XX receptacle.
Power In vs Power Out
The two W-S cable connectors serve different purposes:
NAC3FXXA-W-S
Blue
Power In
6–12mm cable
NAC3FXXB-W-S
Grey
Power Out
6–12mm cable
Do not select them solely by appearance.
The blue and grey versions use different mechanical keying.
For a professional inventory, clearly identifying Power-In and Power-Out connectors helps reduce ordering and assembly mistakes.
NAC3FXXB-W-S vs NAC3FCB
The older NAC3FCB and new NAC3FXXB-W-S fulfil similar Power-Out roles, but they are different generations.
NAC3FCB
- Discontinued
- Grey Power-Out
- Older design
- No breaking capacity in the standard legacy system
- 1,000 specified mating cycles
- Older electrical and mechanical specifications
NAC3FXXB-W-S
- Current generation
- Grey Power-Out
- IEC EN 60320-1 compliant
- CBC with current XX-series receptacle
- 6–12mm cable O.D.
- 1.5–2.5mm² conductors
- 5,000 specified mating cycles
- Improved housing, strain relief and kink protection
For new work and appropriate replacement applications, the FXXB is the current Neutrik platform.
powerCON XX vs powerCON TRUE1
NAC3FXXB-W-S belongs to the powerCON blue/grey XX family.
It is not a powerCON TRUE1 connector.
The families differ in:
- Connector format
- Mechanical compatibility
- Environmental protection
- Accessories
- Equipment interface
The NAC3FXXB-W-S is specified at IP20.
Do not advertise it as:
- Waterproof
- Weatherproof
- IP65
- Outdoor-rated for exposed weather
where those descriptions are unsupported.
For exposed-weather applications, use connectors specifically rated for those conditions.
IP20 Protection Class
Neutrik specifies:
Protection Class: IP20
for NAC3FXXB-W-S.
This means production teams should protect the connector from:
- Rain
- Water
- Standing moisture
- Inappropriate outdoor exposure
For festivals and outdoor events, the overall electrical system must incorporate appropriate weather protection and electrical safety controls.
Operating Temperature
Neutrik specifies:
-33°C to +80°C
for the connector itself.
The complete power lead may have different limits according to:
- Cable jacket
- Cable insulation
- Other connector
- Plug
- Connected equipment
- Environment
Always consider the rating of the complete assembly.
Slip-Resistant Two-Component Housing
The NAC3FXXB-W-S uses an ergonomic two-component moulded housing with a slip-resistant surface.
This improves handling when connectors are being used:
- Behind racks
- Around lighting fixtures
- During bump-ins
- In dark stage environments
- While wearing work gloves
Always disconnect the connector by handling the connector body rather than pulling on the cable.
Improved Kink Protection
Neutrik’s current FXX design incorporates improved kink protection using a two-component bushing.
This is particularly relevant to touring cables that are continually:
- Coiled
- Uncoiled
- Packed
- Transported
- Routed behind equipment
- Connected and disconnected
The cable-to-connector transition is a common mechanical stress point, making suitable bend protection valuable.
Professional Strain Relief
Neutrik specifies a dedicated locking bushing and strain-relief arrangement for cables from 6–12mm.
The design mechanically locks with the insert and aligns with the housing to simplify assembly.
Correct strain relief helps ensure normal pulling forces are transferred to the cable jacket rather than directly to electrical terminations.
Regulatory Compliance
Neutrik currently lists NAC3FXXB-W-S as compliant/certified under applicable requirements including:
- IEC EN 60320-1
- UL 60320-1
- CSA C22.2 No. 60320-1
- UL USA 498
- UL Canada 498
Neutrik also identifies it as accepted as a component for cord sets under applicable IEC 60799 / UL 817 requirements and for equipment according to IEC 62368-1.
These certifications relate to the connector component and its specified use.
They do not automatically certify every custom cable assembled using the connector.
Australian Electrical Applications
In Australia, a completed mains-voltage lead must meet the electrical requirements applicable to its construction and intended use.
The complete assembly includes:
- Cable
- Conductors
- Plug or connector at the opposite end
- powerCON connector
- Protective Earth
- Strain relief
- Termination
- Testing
Manufacture, modification and repair should only be undertaken where the person carrying out the work is appropriately competent and authorised under the applicable electrical requirements.
A genuine Neutrik connector is an important component, but compliance and electrical safety depend on the complete lead.
Product Specifications
Brand: Neutrik
Model: NAC3FXXB-W-S
Series: powerCON XX Blue/Grey
Connector Type: Locking AC mains cable connector
Function: Power Out
Colour Coding: Grey
Configuration: Single-phase, 2 + PE
Contacts: Line, Neutral and Protective Earth
Termination: Screw-type terminals
Cable O.D.: 6–12mm
Wire Size: 1.5–2.5mm² / 16–12 AWG
Locking System: Twist lock
Contact Material: Copper alloy
Contact Plating: Silver
Contact Resistance: ≤2 mΩ
Dielectric Strength: >3 kV AC after mating cycles
Insulation Resistance: >10 GΩ initially
European / IEC Rating: EN 60320-1 – 16 A / 250 V AC, CBC
USA / Canada Rating: 20 A / 127 V AC under applicable UL/cUL ratings
Mechanical Life: >5,000 mating cycles
Housing / Shell: Polyamide PA6 / TPE
Insert: Polyamide PA6.6
Locking Element: Zinc die-cast
Strain Relief: Polyketone
Bushing: Polypropylene / TPE
Protection Class: IP20
Flammability: UL94 V-0
Temperature Range: -33°C to +80°C
CBC: Yes – when correctly mated with compatible current-generation powerCON XX receptacles
Legacy Replacement: Successor to NAC3FCB for appropriate 6–12mm cables
Why Choose the Neutrik NAC3FXXB-W-S?
Choose the NAC3FXXB-W-S where a compatible professional equipment-power system requires:
- Genuine Neutrik powerCON
- Current powerCON XX Series
- Grey Power-Out configuration
- Locking AC equipment connection
- 6–12mm cable compatibility
- 1.5–2.5mm² conductor support
- Line, Neutral and Protective Earth
- Screw-terminal assembly
- Secure twist locking
- Professional strain relief
- Improved kink protection
- More than 5,000 mating cycles
- IEC EN 60320-1 compliance
- Circuit Breaking Capability with compatible XX-series receptacles
- Backwards mating compatibility with legacy grey Neutrik receptacles
- Current replacement option for discontinued NAC3FCB connectors
Why Buy Neutrik NAC3FXXB-W-S from GigLife?
GigLife supplies professional connectors, cables, adaptors, tapes, consumables and technical accessories specifically for the entertainment and production industries.
With more than 25 years of hands-on live entertainment industry experience, GigLife understands how professional power connections are used across real touring, theatre, venue, festival and production environments.
Products are selected by people who work in production and understand the requirements of:
- Lighting technicians
- Audio professionals
- Theatre technicians
- Touring crews
- Production companies
- Film and television departments
- Broadcast facilities
- Festivals
- AV companies
- Schools and performing arts centres
- Conference venues
- Exhibition contractors
- Equipment-hire businesses
Whether you are maintaining compatible lighting inventory, servicing venue power leads, preparing a touring package or restocking a professional workshop, GigLife supplies components selected by people who understand production environments.
Orders are dispatched from Brisbane, with Australia-wide shipping available.
GigLife is proudly by the professionals… for the professionals.
