Category: International Power Cords

Understanding Power Cords

NEMA 1-15P GREY_GREY.jpg

Power cords are electrical cables that connect appliances and devices to a power supply. Typically built with one male end (a plug) and one female end (a receptacle), power cords transfer power directly from a power source to an electrical device. However, not all power cords are created equal!

There are many different uses for power cables, and with a variety of power cord standards and connectors, determining which style of cord is appropriate for your needs can be challenging. Here, we cover the basics of power cords and explore important information to help you get started on your search for power cables. Keep reading to learn more!

Using Universal Power Cords

Power cords provide electricity to both commercial and domestic equipment. Because of this, universal power cords can be found in nearly every industry, power devices including:

  • Commercial Appliances
  • Electronic Equipment
  • Entertainment Systems
  • Industrial Manufacturing
  • Residential and Home Appliances
  • Retail Kiosks and Vending Equipment
  • And more!

No matter your industry, you need power cords to power your equipment. Find the right power cords and electrical cables for your needs at Quail Electronics, Inc.!

What Are the Common Power Cord Standards?

The two most common standards or ratings for power cords in North America are IEC and NEMA:

  • IEC: A set of standards specifying power cords that the International Electro-Technical Commission has standardized; these are used in most countries.
  • NEMA: Referring to cables that follow standards set by the National Electrical Manufacturers Association, typically used in North American and some Central and South American countries.

IEC and NEMA power cords are AC (alternating current) cables, meaning they are designed to carry electrical current that reverses direction periodically. These cords connect to outlets and electrical systems, allowing them to be used for a wide variety of electronic devices and machines.

On the other hand, DC (direct current) cords maintain consistent electrical currents flowing in one direction and are commonly used to power battery-operated equipment.

Types of Power Cord Connectors

Power cord connectors are what attaches a power cable to an appliance, inlet, or other coupler. Connectors such as plugs and receptacles are defined for different current, voltage, and temperature combinations.

IEC connectors are used all over the world for international power cords. IEC-60320 is an international standard that uses a “C” to indicate different connectors, with even numbers representing plugs and odd numbers representing mating receptacles. For example, a C13 plug is designed to connect to a C14 socket, commonly used in data centers.

NEMA connectors are used in North America and are identified by a two-part code followed by a “P” or “R” that indicates whether it’s a plug or a receptacle. The first numbers in the code establish the voltage, while the following numbers describe the amperage. The NEMA 5-15P, for example, is a standard plug style used in North America for small residential appliances like toasters or hairdryers.

Specialty adapters can be used to convert devices with NEMA connectors to IEC connectors.

Specialty and International Power Cords

Specialty power cords are those designated for specific or unique applications. Styles include:

  • Hospital-Grade Power Cords: These cables are used to power medical equipment. Designed to meet medical requirements, hospital-grade power cords are identified with a “Green Dot” to certify approval.
  • Auto-Lock® Power Cords: Quail Electronics, Inc. supplies Auto-Lock power cords designed to prevent accidental unplugging and reduce the risk of electrical hazards.
  • Server Power Cords: These cords connect PDUs and other appliances or networking equipment, offering increased organizational and operational capabilities.
  • International Power Cords: We provide a large selection of international power cords for use all over the world, so no matter where you conduct your business, you can safely power and use your equipment.

Quail Electronics, Inc. is Your Leading Expert on Universal Power Cords

Can’t find the power cord you’re looking for? We can help. At Quail Electronics, Inc., we offer convenient same-day shipping to get you what you need when you need it. Low minimum order requirements and competitive pricing allow us to provide you with precisely what you need at a price that works for you.
Contact us or request a quote to get started on your order today!

A Guide to International Power Cords and Plug Types

At Quail Electronics, we supply commercial and industrial customers worldwide with premium electronic products. As an electronic component manufacturer, we produce high-performance power cords, adapters & converter plugs, and other electronic resources that meet international requirements. This guide will provide insight into the various international power cords and plug types styles.

CEI 23-16 ITALIAN_BLACK.jpg

Plug Types for Each Global Region

There are 15 different models of plugs in the international market. It’s important to note that while most countries have primary plug styles, other plug types may also be utilized due to variations or exceptions in specific regions or electrical installations. Always double-check the power requirements and plug types for the location you are visiting to ensure compatibility with your devices.

Continue reading A Guide to International Power Cords and Plug Types

Everything You Need to Know About UK Electrical Plugs

137.jpgDifferent types of plugs are used worldwide and specially made to meet regional or national electrical standards. In the United Kingdom, the standard accepted electrical plug style is “Type G” plugs, which are designed to promote electrical safety and security. In fact, UK plugs are often referred to as the safest and most efficient plugs in the world. But why is that?

Elevated safety features, numerous uses, and high certification standards make UK plugs one of the safest plug styles. This blog explores what makes UK electrical plugs unique and how they work. Keep reading to learn more about these particular types of plugs.

UK Plugs: The Safest in the World!

When compared to dozens of other international plug styles, UK electrical plugs stand out for their heightened safety features. Like the US standard plug, the UK standard plug features three prongs, including a ground pin to redirect electrical currents. However, these plugs take extra precautions to prevent electrocution or other electrical hazards.

UK Electrical Plug Safety Features

  • Longer Ground Pins: The UK grounding prong is slightly longer than the other pins. When the plug is inserted into a socket, the longer pin grounds first, increasing safety and protection against circuit damage.
  • Insulated Prongs: UK plugs feature stainless steel prongs coated in insulation. If, for instance, the plug is incorrectly plugged in or the prongs are exposed, the insulation makes accidental shocks impossible.
  • Built-In Surge Protection: All UK electrical plugs feature built-in fuses for safety in case of sudden electrical surges. These fuses prevent fires, electrocution, and other accidental mishaps. Additionally, all built-in fuses are fully replaceable.

Types of UK Plugs & Their Uses

Type G plugs have three rectangular prongs and are the standard UK electrical plugs. Built-in fuses for UK plugs consist of four different amperages: 3A, 5A, 10A, and 13A:

  • 3A Fuses: Plugs with a 3A fuse rating are highly popular and are used for standard consumer or commercial appliances rated at 700W or less. This includes appliances such as televisions, computers, lamps, and power drills.
  • 5A & 10A Fuses: These fuse ratings are considered non-standard and are often found in older equipment or used for specialized applications like IT equipment or electric motors.
  • 13A Fuses: If not fitted with a 3A fuse, most UK electrical plugs will have a 13A fuse instead. These common fuses are best for appliances rated over 700W, such as dishwashers, washing machines, and microwaves.

3A and 13A fuses are the standardized fuse ratings for UK plugs, although 5A and 10A fuses are used in non-standard applications.

UK Electrical Plug Certifications

The British Standards Institution (BSI) oversees national standards for the United Kingdom. All UK plugs must meet BSI approval. Certified electrical plugs are identified by the Kitemark logo, which indicates the products have been repeatedly and independently tested by field experts. The Kitemark symbol signifies that the plugs have been assessed to meet BSI requirements. These strict standards, combined with excellent safety features, ensure all UK plugs are produced with the highest quality.

Quail Electronics, Inc. is Your Best Source for UK Plugs & Receptacles

Backed by over 30 years of experience, Quail Electronics, Inc. is proud to be your go-to supplier of plugs and receptacles. We offer competitive pricing, convenient same-day shipping, and low minimum order requirements to help you get what you need, when you need it.

Contact us to learn more about UK electrical plugs, or get started on an order by requesting a quote today.

International Travel For The Holidays

funnyholidayplaneAhh, the holidays.  A time for celebrating the important things in life with the people we cherish the most.  Even if that means traveling far and wide, we do so without question, because we know that’s what really matters.  Often, this even involves international travel.  And low and behold there will be some planning involved, especially if you plan to capture memories and maybe take care of some business on the side by bringing your electronics and accessories.  For the uninitiated, or those with limited experience, we’ve come up with a handy step by step guide to making sure you have an (electronically) seamless holiday, and more time to spend with your loved ones.

Continue reading International Travel For The Holidays

Australia’s New Power Cord Marking

RCM jpgTo all our customers from down under: you may have noticed something a little different about Quail’s Australian power cord plugs. There is a new marking on the plug that supplements the Australian standard for approving electronics in Australia and New Zealand. 

As of March 1, 2013, The Australian Communication and Media Authority (ACMA) and the New Zealand Radio Spectrum Management (RSM) consolidated regulatory certifications for electrical equipment to the Regulatory Compliance Mark (RCM). On that same date, Continue reading Australia’s New Power Cord Marking

New India Power Cord Is Finally Here!

New India Power Cord

New India Power CordQuail Electronics would like to introduce the new power cord for India. Quail’s 8580 series was formerly used in both South Africa as well as India. However, the two are now parting ways. India has created a standard for their plug which provides the CII (Confederation of Indian Industry) approval. The plug is still the same pin configuration as South Africa. The only new difference is that the markings for the approvals will change.

Japan went through the same situation when they switched approvals from UL to PSE. The plug is still the same as the US NEMA 5-15P standard, only now, Japan requires their own PSE approval. Continue reading New India Power Cord Is Finally Here!

Russian Approval Goes from GOST to EAC

Russian Approval

EAC Russian ApprovalIn early 2013 the Russian approval, GOST R, came to an end and was no longer being issued. The new certification for Russia, Belarus and Kazakhstan is the Customs Union Technical Regulation (EAC). The Customs Union was started in 2010 to make it easier to transport goods in and out of the 3 countries.

The CU TR certification by EAC and declarations will be the new standard for the 3 countries. An EAC logo will now be displayed. This new single certification can be used to replace GOST R, GOST K and STB. Quail Electronics‘ power cords, such as the 8510 series, is currently displaying the EAC marking.

NONAME_0.dwg

Brazil Standard

FlagBrazil is a wonderful, beautiful country filled with rich history and culture.  However, previous to 2010, the country was lacking in one major area; electrical standardization. There was no formal Brazil standard for any electrical sockets or plugs.  Since there was no standard, that led to a total of eight different kinds of plugs.  That’s right; eight!  The multitude of options caused Brazilian citizens and tourists alike to have a difficult time connecting different plugs and wires for numerous electronic devices. Continue reading Brazil Standard

Japanese and Taiwanese Plugs: Together At Last

Not clearTwo is better than one.  Think about it.  Peanut butter and jelly sandwiches are so much better than jelly sandwiches.  And where would Mario be without Luigi?  Chips and salsa truly belong together.  As much as he may hate to admit it, the Coyote would have no idea what to do if it wasn’t for the roadrunner.  And after all, how could Kirk captain the Enterprise without Spock?

That’s why Quail Electronics has brought you Dual Approved Power Cords for Taiwan and Japan.  For several years, Japan and Taiwan have been using very similar electrical standards and identical plugs and connectors.  However, different approval bodies caused these cords to be offered as separate power cords.  Therefore, if you had products in the Japan and Taiwan market, you needed to have two power cords. Continue reading Japanese and Taiwanese Plugs: Together At Last