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Your Best Guide to IEC 60309 Plugs

IEC 60309 plugs (International Electrotechnical Commission) are internationally certified for industrial purposes. The 60309 specification identifies these plugs as compatible with high voltages and high-powered connections. However, these industrial plugs are often referred to under a different name, making shopping for them more difficult than it needs to be.

Read below to learn more about IEC 60309 plugs and how they can best serve your applications.

What Are IEC 60309 Pin and Sleeve Plugs?

Also known as pin and sleeve plugs, IEC 60309 plugs feature male “pins” for plugging into corresponding sockets and are surrounded by a female “sleeve” for protection and safety. Often, the sleeve is made from impact-resistant plastic to reduce the risk of electrical shock and promote safe handling. The male and female pin and sleeve design reinforces electrical connections and makes them ideal for industrial high-voltage applications.

IEC power adapters are designed to accept IEC 60309 plugs and safely power various industrial applications. These plugs are compatible with IEC power cords and universal power strips.

Commando Plugs vs IEC 60309 Plugs

If you’re in the market for IEC 60309 plugs, you may be searching for them under the popular brand name Commando. When IEC 60309 plugs began gaining worldwide popularity for industrial and high-voltage uses, various countries began adopting it and slightly changing the name for their own standards or colloquial terminology.

Just like how the Kleenex brand name took over facial tissues and the Xerox brand name took over copiers, the MK Commando brand took over IEC 60309 plugs. However, when searching for an industrial plug, the correct term is still the IEC 60309.

Benefits of IEC 60309 Pin and Sleeve Plugs

IEC 60309 plugs are known for their extreme strength and durability. Built to handle high voltage levels and extreme amperages, these plugs can reliably power large machinery in various industries. Additionally, these plugs can continue to provide power with complete safety even when submerged underwater. IEC 60309 plugs have an IP rating guaranteeing their ability to withstand water and foreign objects, protecting them from dirt and dust.

Applications

IEC 60309 pin and sleeve plugs can be used for a wide range of industrial applications, including but not limited to:

Cameras & Video Displays
Communications & Laboratory Machinery
Computing Equipment
Cooking Units
Data Servers
Industrial Lighting & Machinery

Quail Electronics, Inc. is Your Leading Supplier of IEC 60309 Plugs

With over 30 years of experience, Quail Electronics, Inc. is your trusted source of standard and custom power cords for a variety of applications. We proudly offer competitive pricing, no minimum order requirements, and same-day shipping on all in-stock products. Contact us to get started on your order today!

Continue reading Your Best Guide to IEC 60309 Plugs

Different Wire Termination Styles for Power Cords

Wire termination refers to the end style of a power cord. The way a cable is terminated affects its applications and determines how it can be used.

In this blog, we talk about the different ways to terminate a power cord, various wire termination methods, and types of electrical terminals for creating new cable connections.

Types of Power Cable Ends

The end of a power cable determines the available wire termination methods for that specific application. The most common cord end styles for power cables are:

Standard Ends
Stripped Ends
Custom Ends

For standard power cords, both ends can be plugged in or unplugged, and the cord is ready to use. All internal wires are hidden, meaning wire termination is contained in the plug or connector. However, for stripped and custom power cable ends, there are different ways to terminate a cord’s exposed wires.

Wire Termination Methods for Stripped End Power Cords

Stripped end power cords feature exposed wiring, where the insulation has been removed or “stripped” away from one end of the power cord. Also referred to as removed outer jacket cords or ROJ cords, the wire termination methods for these cords are permanent and result in reliable results.

Crimped Wire Termination

Crimped wire termination is named for the crimping tool required. A contact or terminal is “crimped” to the stripped wire, forming a permanent attachment. Crimp termination is the most common type of wire termination and forms a mechanically strong, reliable connection between the power cord and the attached terminal.

Soldering Wire Termination

Soldering wire termination is often used for direct hard-wiring applications. The stripped wires are treated with Flux and the desired contact or terminal is soldered directly to the exposed wires. Soldered wire termination is often used for simple applications or when a wire is too small for crimping tools.

Terminals for Stripped & Custom Cable Termination

Stripped and custom-end power cables use electrical terminals to create new ends for connections. Available in insulated styles, terminals come in a range of connection options:

Ring Terminals: Used to ground a wire in a device.
Locking Ring Terminals: Offer a more secure connection for grounding wires.
Fork/Spade Terminals: Allows for fast wire connections.
Quick Disconnect Terminals: Used when wires require fast disconnection.
Flag Terminals: A left-angle version of quick disconnect terminals.

When selecting a terminal, ensure the sizing matches your wire gauge.

Quail Electronics, Inc. is Your Expert in Power Cords & Electronic Supplies

Got questions? With over 30 years of experience and a team of knowledgeable experts, we can answer any question and assist you with any inquiries. With competitive pricing, convenient same-day shipping, and minimal order requirements, we supply you with precisely what you need. Contact us with any questions or to get started on your order today.

Continue reading Different Wire Termination Styles for Power Cords

Understanding Every Angle

While standard power cords are excellent for nearly all applications, making secure connections in angled spaces can be difficult or near impossible. When it comes to navigating tight spaces or awkward angles, angled power cords are the perfect space-saving solution.

These power cords are designed to make reliable connections without bending or damaging the plug, allowing cables to lay flush and secure. Available in numerous configurations and styles, angled power cords can be used for all types of angled-space applications.

Angled Power Cords: What Are They?

In terms of functional specifications, angled power cords are nearly identical to their standard counterparts. The defining and obvious difference, of course, is the angle of the plug or connector. While standard power cables do not have specific angles, angled power cords have a 90° bend in one of four directions: up, down, left, or right.

Angled power cords:

Take up less space than standard connectors
Are easy to route through tight spaces and corners
Offer strain relief to eliminate cable stress
Minimize protrusion and save space in tight areas
Prevent cord damage and maintain secure connections

Angled power cords are identified by the location of the ground pin and the direction the cord is trailing from the vantage point when connected to a power source. Right-angle power cords and left-angle power cables are among the most popular styles, although different angles are available for other needs.

What Are the Different Configurations for Angled Power Cords?

North American (NEMA) cords and IEC cables are the most popular angled power cords. While the power cord angle is based on when the plug or connector is connected to a power source, NEMA and IEC cords have different specifications for naming angled power cords based on cord direction.

NEMA Angled Power Cords

For NEMA cord configurations, the type of cord is based on when the power cord ground pin is facing down, or in the 6 o’clock position. The angles are determined by the position of the power cord when plugged into a power source or socket. For example, if, when looking at a wall outlet, the power equipment is plugged in with the ground pin down and the wire is trailing toward the left, it is a left-angle power cable. If the cord is trailing right, it is a right-angle power cord. The same logic applies to up and down angles.

North American angled power cords can have either NEMA to NEMA connectors or NEMA to IEC connectors. The most common type of NEMA angle power cord is a 5-15P cable. Here, we illustrate Below is a diagram all four NEMA 5-15P angled power cord configurations.

ANGLE	NEMA 5-15P
UP
DOWN
LEFT
RIGHT

IEC Angled Power Cords

For IEC angled power cords, the angle of the cable is determined by the ground pin facing up, or in the 12 o’clock position. For example, for a plugged-in IEC cable with the ground pin oriented upwards, if the cable trails to the left, it is a left-angle power cable. If the cord is trailing right, it is a right-angle power cord. The same logic applies to up and down angles.

IEC 60320 C13, C14, C19, and C20 cables are among the more popular styles of IEC angled power cords. The following chart displays the various configurations for IEC C13 angled power cords.

ANGLE	IEC
UP
DOWN
LEFT
RIGHT

When to Use Angled Power Cords

Any angled power cord can be used in place of a standard cord of the same specifications. This means that these cables are excellent space-saving solutions for both consumer and commercial applications. Common uses for angled power cords include:

Monitors
Computers
Printers
Scanners
TVs
Sound Systems
And more!

Contact Quail Electronics, Inc. to Find Your Best Angled Power Cords

Quail Electronics, Inc. is proud to be your top supplier of the best services and electronic products. We offer low minimum order requirements, competitive pricing, and convenient same-day shipping to help you receive precisely what you need. With a team of industry experts, an extensive inventory, and over 30 years of experience, we are your leading source of reliable power cords, power strips, and additional electronic accessories.

Contact Quail Electronics, Inc. or request a quote to find the right solutions for your needs.

Everything You Need to Know About UK Electrical Plugs

Different 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.

UL Implements New Regulation

The Underwriters Laboratories (UL) regulations are always changing to keep up with the growing electronics industry. As of July 1, 2015, all UL Listed power supply cords are required to show a specific marking on the plug.

There will be three separate markings depending on the region they are used for. For the USA, there will be one Underwriters Lab brand marking. Another branded mark will show a C-UL/UL mark for USA and Canada, and the third mark will be C-UL just for Canada. ul marking

Many products require redesign or modification before meeting the Underwriters Laboratories’ requirements and becoming eligible for the marking. Continue reading UL Implements New Regulation

Power Your Critical Equipment with Colored Cords

Power cables are crucial for successful business operations, no matter your industry. In technological workspaces like data centers and hospitals, virtually all equipment relies on electrical cables to power machines. However, as your inventory of power cables grows, so can the opportunity for chaos. That’s where colored power cords come in.

OEMs in tech-heavy trades understand the importance of power cable organization. If systems fail or cord errors occur, lengthy searches for a faulty cable in a pile of identical cords can waste precious time and money. With colored power cords, sorting and identifying cables has never been easier.

Benefits & Advantages of Colored Power Cords

Colored power cords do more than just brighten up your workspace! In addition to reducing tangling and minimizing the time you spend searching for specific cables, power cord colors offer a host of benefits for OEMs and businesses. Color coding your power cables:

Improves safety and reduces errors
Increases organization and cable management
Promotes faster troubleshooting or maintenance
Reduces accidental unplugging
Signals different uses and purposes
Simplifies cable identification

Tip: When selecting colored power cords, aim to choose the shortest cord length for your needs. While organizing cables with different power cord colors is highly beneficial, shorter lengths can take your organization to the next level. Keeping cables as short as possible helps reduce clutter, maximize airflow, and improve operational efficiency.

Common Power Cord Colors

While cables are available from Quail Electronics, Inc., in virtually any color, some of the most popular power cord colors include:

Red
Orange
Yellow
Green
Blue

Additional color choices can include white, grey, purple, and pink. You are free to decide what each color indicates for your uses and applications, although certain colors are often associated with specific purposes. For example, red cables are generally used for critical equipment, yellow or pink cables are common for electronics, and blue or green cords are handy for constantly rearranging devices. Be sure that anyone handling the cables understands the meaning assigned to different power cord colors.

Practical Uses & Applications for Colored Power Cords

Data Centers & Contact Centers

Power cables are the backbone of data and contact centers. In case of emergencies like failed cords or equipment going down, it is critical to find the faulty cable as fast as possible. Power cord colors help you quickly identify specific cables and make any necessary changes. Colored power cords are common in networking sectors including server rooms, networking racks, telecommunications, and storage.

Hospitals & Clinics

Most hospitals and clinics require medical-grade power cords for critical machines such as respirators and ventilators. However, colored power cords are excellent for non-critical equipment, such as computers, lighting, and other electronics. Power supplies can be easily organized in operating and patient rooms, and bright colors like yellow and pink stand out to quickly identify non-critical equipment and portable devices.

General Organization

Anyone can use colored power cords for general or standard projects. No matter your setting or industry, these versatile cords keep things organized. Use colored power cords to reduce clutter, improve efficiency, and streamline operations.

Get Organized with Colored Power Cords from Quail Electronics, Inc.

At Quail Electronics, Inc., we have over 30 years of experience as a premier supplier of power cords and electrical accessories. We pride ourselves on competitive pricing, minimal order requirements, and same-day shipping services. From Auto-Lock® colored cords to IEC colored cables and more, we have the best solutions for you. Find the right colored power cords you need today!

Contact Quail Electronics, Inc. with any questions or request a quote today to get started on your order.

NEMA Locking Power Cords for High-Voltage Applications

Whether you’re powering devices at work, a construction site, or even home appliances, a secure connection is vital for high-voltage applications. If a cord accidentally disconnects, the exposed conductors can cause severe electrical hazards. Power cords used for heavy-duty projects need plugs and connectors that stay attached no matter what.

The solution? NEMA locking power cords. These industrial-grade power cords lock into place with a single twist, giving you a secure connection to the receptacle.

Why Use Locking Power Cords?

While traditional power cords are excellent for many general uses, they are often susceptible to unintended disconnections. For high-voltage applications, accidental unplugging can lead to severe electrical hazards or create equipment failure. Locking power cables are the best solution to prevent unwanted disconnections. These cords feature mechanisms that, when twisted, securely lock the connection between the cord and the power source.

There are many benefits of NEMA locking power cords:

Decreased downtime
Improved safety
Increased reliability
Lowered maintenance
Uninterrupted power supply

Locking power cables can only be connected and disconnected by intentionally twisting the locking mechanism, making accidental unplugging impossible. Ensure your high-voltage applications are secure with NEMA locking power cords.

Using Locking Power Cords for Secure Connections

Designed for heavy-duty use, NEMA locking power cords are ideal for harsh environments or where vibrations may cause standard cables to disconnect. This can be in both commercial and consumer settings, with applications ranging from Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) backup hardware to residential appliances. Additional common uses for locking power cables include:

Data servers
Generators
Lighting, sound, and video equipment
Medical devices
Offices
Pool pumps
And more!

Common Types of Locking Power Cables

Because there are many different types of high-voltage applications, there are just as many types of locking power cables to go with them! Popular types of locking power cables include:

These cables are highly versatile, with various lengths and connection styles available to suit unique application demands. Contact Quail Electronics, Inc. today to find out which locking power cable is best for your needs!

Voltages for NEMA Locking Power Cords

When selecting a power cord, choosing the right voltage for the equipment you’re powering is critical. NEMA locking power cords are offered with different voltage options and plug types, with the most common being:

125V

L5-15P
L5-20P
L5-30P

250V

L6-15P
L6-20P
L6-30P

Quail Electronics, Inc.: Your #1 Source for Power Cords!

At Quail Electronics, Inc., we supply high-quality power cords for any application. We stand apart from the crowd with fast shipping, low minimum order requirements, and competitive pricing. Talk to our experts for help finding the best power cords for your needs. Contact us or request a quote to get started today.

Different Types of Power Cords: What You Should Know

Choosing the proper power cord is essential for safety and success. However, not all power cords are created equal. Understanding the differences between various cables will help you make the best decision for your application and needs. Below, we explore different types of power cords and their uses. Keep reading to learn about the specific functions of common cord styles for various applications!

Common Power Cord Styles

North American Power Cords

Also known as NEMA power cords, these cords are the standard design in North America. While various configurations are available for different outlets and equipment, all North American power cords feature a NEMA plug type on one end and an IEC connector on the other. As the most common type of power cable in North America, these cords are used for a virtually immeasurable number of applications, with standard uses including:

Appliances
Computers and server equipment
Consumer devices
Industrial machinery
Office equipment

At Quail Electronics, Inc., we supply standard and custom configurations to provide you with the right North American power cords for your requirements. All NEMA cables are UL and CSA approved. Contact us to learn more.

International Power Cords

As their name implies, international power cords are designed for international usage. Because power standards and outlet styles vary between different regions, a power cord that works in one country may be inadequate in another. International power cords feature unique plug styles and voltage ratings to ensure compatibility and optimal performance for specific countries. Quail Electronics, Inc. supplies international power cords for over 15 countries, including:

Australia
China
Denmark
India
Italy
Japan
UK

Choosing power cords with the correct voltages and plug styles for international electrical uses is essential to proper functionality and safety.

Hospital Power Cords

Hospital-grade power cords, also called medical cords, are specially designed for the health and medical industry. These cords are built to fulfill strict safety standards for medical equipment, featuring large plug bodies, three grounded prongs, and excellent resistance to electrical arcs and corrosion. All medial-grade power cords undergo stringent testing procedures, and approved cords are marked with a “green dot” to verify certification. Typical uses for hospital power cords include:

Breathing equipment
Dental cleansing tools
Laboratory instruments
Medical devices
X-ray machinery

As durable and resilient cables, hospital power cords protect staff, patients, and equipment from electromagnetic interference, shocks, or accidents.

Auto-Lock® Power Cords

Our patented Auto-Lock® power cords feature built-in locking mechanisms on the connectors. Designed to prevent accidental disconnections, the locking device keeps these cords plugged in even when tugged or pulled. Only intentional unlocking will disconnect Auto-Lock® cables, ensuring consistent and stable power until manually unplugged. Auto-Lock® power cords can be used in place of their standard counterparts, making them beneficial for a large range of applications including but not limited to:

Consumer devices
Data centers
High-traffic areas
Industrial machinery
Office settings
Server equipment

North American power cords, international power cords, and hospital power cords are all available in Auto-Lock® configurations. Find the right Auto-Lock power cord for your needs at Quail Electronics, Inc.

Quail Electronics, Inc. Has All the Power Cords You Need

With our extensive inventory of electrical products, Quail Electronics, Inc. is your trusted provider for all power cord needs. Competitive pricing, low minimum order requirements, and convenient, same-day shipping set us apart from the crowd. We are your leading supplier of power cables and accessories.

Snap-On and Screw-On Inlets

For today’s “how-to” topic, we will be discussing how to mount a power inlet/outlet onto a device.

There are two different types of ways to mount a power connector. One way is referred to as a Snap-On inlet (as the IEC-C20 inlet shown below). For example, in the data center located in your office building, the Snap-On inlet would be mounted on by inserting into the server rack. Soldered ends or quick disconnect terminals connect to your equipment’s live wires to the metal tabs at the back of the inlet. The “lips,” (highlighted below) which are small pieces of plastic on the sides, holds the inlet in place once connected to the server.

snap-on c20 - lips

The second type is called a Screw-On inlet. Continue reading Snap-On and Screw-On Inlets

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