Wall socket with USB (Simon): how to install it?

A wall USB socket is a versatile device that combines a standard outlet with USB ports of different types (such as Type C). These ports allow you to enjoy two or more functions in the same flush-mounted box. Thanks to this, you can charge a variety of gadgets directly from the wall without the need for adapters or additional chargers, which represents excellent space optimization, as you won’t need to carry out renovations to expand charging functions.

For example, if you install the socket next to your bed or near your desk, you can keep a lamp or your computer plugged in while at the same time charging your smartphone and other electronic devices.

A particularly interesting point is that wall USB sockets usually have surge protection and safety certifications. This makes them a safe and reliable option for powering and charging multiple gadgets simultaneously.

In this sense, when choosing a schuko combined with USB functions, it is important to take into account the quality of the device. Not all wall USB sockets are the same. You must choose a device that meets the same high quality and safety standards as mobile brands such as Apple or Samsung, since installing a generic socket could put at risk the lifespan of any gadget connected to it, such as your smartphone.

The obligation to have a USB Type C charging port will apply this year to electronics such as smartphones, tablets, cameras, headphones, speakers, portable game consoles, lamps, power banks, among others. However, for laptops, this requirement will take effect from April 2026.

Given this situation, a wall socket with a USB Type C port will become the most used tool by all Spaniards, both in their homes and offices, as well as in hotels, restaurants, shopping centers, etc. Everyone will want access to this type of socket to charge any of their electronic mobile devices.

On the other hand, smartwatches and activity bracelets are the only devices that for now are exempt from this obligation, due to their size and usage conditions.

The wall USB socket works with three mechanisms that are responsible for adapting the energy according to the characteristics of the devices connected to each of its ports. These mechanisms are:

• Power circuit of the wall USB socket: this circuit receives the alternating current (AC) from the electrical network and directs it to the regulator circuit. You should know that USB sockets are designed to connect to a standard power outlet, where they draw power from the same network as conventional sockets.

• Current conversion of the wall USB socket: inside the socket, there is a transformer or converter that transforms alternating current into direct current. For USB ports, this conversion is crucial, since USB devices require a constant 5-volt output. This process ensures that the electrical energy is suitable for charging sensitive devices such as smartphones, tablets, and others.

• Regulator chip of the wall USB socket: this component regulates the voltage and current sent to the connected devices. Many modern USB sockets include smart circuits that can detect the type of device connected and automatically adjust the output to optimize charging. This means that if a device requires more current, the circuit can increase the supply up to a safe limit, thus improving efficiency and reducing charging time.

There is a wide range of wall USB sockets on the market, but not all are installed the same way, as some are much easier to connect than others. For example, some sockets require internal wiring with the USB transformer device, while others come completely ready to mount and use. This is the case with Simon’s USB sockets, which are the most versatile, practical, and convenient to install.

Below is a step-by-step guide to installing a Simon wall and surface USB socket:

• Disconnect the electricity: go to the electrical panel and turn off the power to the circuit you will be working on. This step is very important to ensure your safety during installation.

• Remove the old socket: if it is not a new installation, you must remove the frame of the existing wall socket, unscrew it, and disconnect its wires.

• Install the new USB socket: screw the new base to the wall. Then connect the wires to the base, insert the base into the wall making sure it is properly fitted, and finally place the decorative frame of the socket.

Connecting the wires in a wall USB socket is a simple process, whether you are replacing an old socket or installing one for the first time.

First, you must identify which are the phase, neutral, and ground wires. In general, they are the following colors:

• Phase wire: white, gray, black, or brown.

• Neutral wire: blue.

• Ground wire: green or yellow.

If the wires of your old socket are exactly the same color, then you have two options:

• Before removing the wires from the base of the socket you are going to replace, carefully observe where each wire is connected by reading the letters on the terminals of the base. For example, the wire connected to the terminal marked with the letter N is the neutral wire, and the one marked F or L is the phase (or line) wire. Once identified, you can place a piece of tape around the phase wire so that when you disconnect them, you will know which wire corresponds to the tape and which to the unmarked one.

• Another option is to use a voltage tester, a special device that you place on the terminals of the old socket before disconnecting it. When the tester lights up, it means the phase is connected to that terminal; if it doesn’t light up, it is the neutral. As in the previous recommendation, once each wire is identified, mark the phase with a piece of tape.

For the new wall USB socket you are going to connect, note that some sockets do not have marked terminals, which makes it difficult to identify where the phase, neutral, and ground go. In the case of Simon USB sockets, these terminals are clearly marked.

At this point, you must connect the phase wire to the terminal marked with the letter L, the neutral wire to N, and the ground wire to the terminal with the ground symbol.

Simon’s USB sockets are leaders in the Spanish market. Their high performance in both mechanical design and electronic engineering ensures very fast, reliable, and safe data transmission.

An important aspect to highlight is that Simon wall USB sockets comply with all applicable safety standards, both for user protection and for the protection of connected devices. For example, the active internal part of these sockets is metallic and current-conductive to improve the device’s functionality. However, the user is not exposed to any possible hazards, since the external design of the devices is made of insulating plastic.

In terms of design, you can choose Simon USB sockets of French or Schuko type, in different colors and with various complementary covers.

Major brands such as Samsung and Apple, and others, have already been adapting their entire range of electronic gadgets to USB Type C charging ports, and Simon has also adapted its sockets with USB Type C ports.

But at Simon, we always go one step further. We offer a variety of USB mechanisms for homes and offices that are not limited to wall sockets, such as independent USB charging ports, USB data connectors, charging bases, and adapters with USB, among others.