This article covers Yellow Jacket 2177N 4-Outlet Metal Power Block Adapter with Lighted Switch.

Overview

The Yellow Jacket 2177N is a 4-outlet metal power block adapter from the well-established American brand Yellow Jacket. Its all-metal housing is built to withstand harsh environments like workshops, factories, and home offices, offering far more durability than typical plastic power strips. The built-in illuminated rocker switch provides clear visual confirmation of power status, eliminating guesswork and accidental power-offs. With a compact 4-foot (approximately 1.2m) cord and a bright yellow finish, this power tap is easy to spot in a toolbox or bag. It supports up to 240V, making it suitable for use in Japan (100V) as well as overseas travel. The 2177N is a straightforward, no-frills solution for adding extra outlets where you need them most.

Connectivity & Compatibility

The Yellow Jacket 2177N uses a standard NEMA 5-15P plug, which fits Japanese household outlets without any adapter. All four 3-prong AC outlets are arranged on one face, allowing larger power adapters to sit side by side with minimal interference. However, because it uses a grounding pin, you may need a 2-pin conversion adapter for older outlets that lack a ground. This power tap is compatible with any device drawing up to 15A total (1875W at 125V, or 1500W at 100V). Typical use cases include powering a desktop PC, monitor, printer, router, modem, or small power tools. It does not include surge protection, so for sensitive electronics or lightning-prone areas, we recommend pairing it with a separate surge protector.

Product Info

The Yellow Jacket 2177N has been a long-selling model since its release in the early 2010s, and remains widely available on . Pricing typically ranges from ¥2,800 to ¥4,500, offering excellent value for a metal-bodied power tap with an illuminated switch. The manufacturer provides a limited 1-year warranty. Market positioning is entry-to-mid tier. It costs more than basic plastic power strips but justifies the premium with its rugged metal construction and reliable switch mechanism. The package includes only the power tap itself; no additional accessories are bundled.

Best Use Cases

Workshop and industrial users: The metal housing resists impacts, drops, and exposure to dust or oil. The illuminated switch makes it easy to confirm power status at a glance, enhancing safety. However, the switch's audible click may be distracting in quiet office environments. Home office users seeking cable management: The compact block shape and short 1.2m cable make it ideal for mounting behind a monitor arm or inside a cable management rack. Four outlets are enough for a PC, monitor, speakers, and a phone charger. If you need six or more outlets or USB charging ports, consider a larger power strip. * Travelers and mobile workers: The bright yellow color prevents loss in a crowded toolbox or suitcase. It's handy for hotel rooms or temporary workstations where extra outlets are scarce. At around 150g, it's slightly heavier than ultra-light travel adapters, so weight-conscious travelers may prefer a lighter option.

Things to Consider

This product lacks surge protection and USB charging ports. If you need to protect expensive equipment from power surges or charge smartphones directly, you'll need to add a separate surge protector or USB charger. Because of the metal housing, using it with a grounded outlet is recommended to avoid static discharge risks. The four-outlet count is adequate for basic desktop setups, but large AC adapters may block adjacent outlets. Measure your adapters' physical size before purchasing to ensure a good fit. ## FAQ
Q: Can I use this in Japan? What plug type does it have? A: Yes, it works in Japan. The plug is NEMA 5-15P (two flat pins with a grounding pin), which fits standard Japanese outlets. For older 2-pin outlets, you'll need a conversion adapter. Q: Does it have surge protection? A: No, it does not. For surge protection, use a separate surge protector either in front of or instead of this power tap. Q: What is the maximum power rating? A: At 100V (Japan), it supports up to 15A, giving a theoretical maximum of 1500W. For continuous use, we recommend staying at or below 1200W (80% load). At 240V, it can handle up to 3600W.

Product Disclosure (Amazon)

  • Manufacturer: Yellow Jacket
  • Seller: Amazon US
  • Fulfilled by: Amazon US
  • ASIN: B000HJBE0E
  • Note: This article covers a manufacturer-made product based on Amazon listing details.