Power Cords

Cables – Power Cables and Cords

Tons of applications around the world are powered by electricity. We cannot imagine life without electric power to give life to thousands of devices we own. But how does this power get into your system? Not unless you are using portable batteries, you will need a power cable, also known as the power cord. Power cords allow you to connect your computer or any other electrical and electronic equipment to an electrical outlet. An extension may be needed, but you can also use the wall sockets.

Power Cable Structure

A power cord has two ends: one gets into your computer while the other end goes to an adapter or UPS. If you have none of these and just want to connect directly to the electrical socket, then you need a plug. The end that gets into your computer is called the receptacle and the other the plug. These plugs differ from region to region and may have different fuse ratings.

The power cord plug has pins, which can either be male or female type. NEMA standards are used when designing power plugs. We currently have NEMA 2 and NEMA 5 power cord plugs used in almost the entire North American continent.

Computer Power Cord Specifications

Computer power cables are specified by the IEC standards. For example, a C13 power cord is of IEC 60320 standard. These standards specify electrical, mechanical, and thermal requirements that the cable has to meet before it is released to the market. C13 power cords have electrical parameters of 15A/250V or 10A/250V. Why are these parameters important when buying a power cable?

Your computers and server have current ratings. That means they need to source that current from the power source and the cable used should handle it. If a power cord of less rating for current is used, the copper conductors inside it will heat up and melts. That will not only cause power disruption but also fire hazards. Save yourself from all the risks involved by buying a standard power cable for your applications.

Does Power Cable Length Matter?

Electrically, yes. The longer the power cable, the higher resistance within the wire. This will lead to voltage drops and heating within the cord, reducing the efficiency. Always strive to get power cables of the appropriate lengths for any application.

At ALLHDD, you find NEMA-rated power cables for your use. Place your order or talk to us through our contact number on the page if you have any queries. We are ready to supply the number of cables you need.