Power cords are electrical components that connect appliances to an electrical utility or power supply. Typically, one end is a male connector or plug that attaches to the power supply or other cord. The other end can be a female connector or a fixed cable connected to the appliance. Characterized by different cord standards, connector types, and uses, a variety of power cords are available to meet industry-specific requirements; determining which power cord meets industry requirements can be a challenge.
Power Cord Standards & Connector Types
Standards and types of power cords vary depending on country and appliance. Connector types are dictated by the standards a power cord follows, and there are many plug types for each power cord standard.
Power Cord Standards
IEC and NEMA are common electrical standards used in North American countries; Quail Electronics carries a variety of power cords to match the standards and plug type of your unique application, including several international options.
- 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.
Connector Types
Plugs, or connectors, are the power cord component that attaches to an appliance inlet or other coupler. Connector types are defined for different current, voltage, and temperature combinations.
IEC created a connector-type regulation used by most countries in the world. IEC 60320 is an international standard using “C” codes to indicate connectors following the standard, such as C1 and C2. Even numbers represent the plug, and odd represent the mating receptacle. C13, C15, and C19 are the preferred connector types used in data centers.
NEMA offers its standard connector type, NEMA 5-15P, or Type B plugs. Commonly used in Canada, the US, and Mexico, they are three-wire circuits used in sockets, are rated at 15A, and carry volts ranging from 110 to 250.
Power Cord Uses
The use of power cords spans a variety of industries, providing both commercial and domestic applications. Almost every electrical appliance, such as air conditioners, TVs, computers, and refrigerators, utilizes a power cord. Power cords service industries including the following:
- Retail
- Commercial
- Industrial
- Electronics
- Entertainment
- Residential
Specialty Power Cords
Power cords can be manufactured to address specific industrial challenges for specialty applications. At Quail Electronics, we offer a range of specialty power cords, including computer, medical grade, server, q-lock, rotating, and splitter options.
- Computer: Also known as IEC cords, they are standard for laptops, desktop computers, and other electronic devices. Available in a variety of lengths and plug and connector styles.
- Medical Grade: Used for powering medical equipment, constructed with durability and reliability in mind to meet hospital-grade power cord specifications, featuring the “Green Dot” of approval.
- Server: Standard cords connecting PDUs and other appliances or networking equipment. These cords offer organizational and operational capabilities.
- Q-Lock: The locking mechanism ensures a reliable power connection when used in environments with a high risk of power outages or accidental disconnections.
- Rotating: Featuring a rotating flat plug, it enables connection without damaging the cord when dealing with tight spaces.
- Splitters: Divide power sources to provide electricity to multiple applications.
Quail Electronics – Your Place for Power Cords
Can’t find the power cord you’re looking for? Contact us for help finding the correct power cord solution for your unique application. Quail Electronics offers convenient, same-day shipping to get what you need immediately. Our low minimum order requirements ensure that you get everything you need without overpaying, and our high-quality products are available at competitive prices, so you don’t have to compromise performance. Looking for a specialty application? Request a quote today, and we’ll find a power cord solution for your application.