Pozidriv Drive (Type IA Cross)
Direct Answer
The Pozidriv drive (ANSI Type IA cross recess / ISO 4757) is an improved cruciform drive developed by GKN Screws and Fasteners in 1962. Identified by four secondary radial score lines etched at 45 degrees between the main cross blades, it features parallel, non-tapered sidewalls that eliminate cam-out and allow significantly higher torque transmission than Phillips.
Source: ISO 4757 / ANSI Type IA / British Standard BS 3529
Specs
| Standard Specifications | ISO 4757 Type IA / BS 3529 / DIN 7962 |
| Visual Identification | 4 distinctive radial tick marks embossed at 45° between the main cross arms |
| Flank Geometry | Parallel vertical sidewalls (zero taper angle, unlike Phillips 57° taper) |
| Cam-Out Tendency | Extremely Low (Does not push driver out under high torque) |
| Standard Sizing Tiers | PZ0, PZ1, PZ2 (dominant European carpentry size), PZ3, PZ4 |
| Primary Geographical Usage | Dominant across European construction, cabinetry (IKEA furniture), and automotive |
Phillips vs Pozidriv Incompatibility
The single most common cause of stripped screw heads in DIY furniture (such as IKEA cabinetry) is confusing Pozidriv with Phillips:
- Phillips Bit in Pozidriv Screw: A Phillips bit has angled flanks; inside a parallel-walled Pozidriv recess, it only contacts the metal at the top corners with massive play, slipping and stripping the head immediately.
- Pozidriv Bit in Phillips Screw: A Pozidriv bit will not seat fully to the bottom of a tapered Phillips recess, resulting in poor engagement.
Torque Efficiency
Because Pozidriv's driving walls are parallel, the operator does not need to apply heavy forward axial down-pressure to keep the bit engaged, dramatically reducing worker fatigue during repetitive drywall and timber framing installations.