How Much Do You Know About IEC Connectors in Power Cords？

In the world of electrical devices and appliances, power cords play a critical role in delivering electricity safely and efficiently. Among the various types of power cords available, IEC connectors have gained significant popularity due to their versatility, safety features, and ease of use. In this article, we will explore the different types of IEC connectors, highlighting their importance in ensuring reliable power connections.

What are the IEC Connector Standards?

Before introducing IEC connectors, it is important to understand the standards associated with them. IEC connector standards, established by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC), ensure the interoperability and reliability of these connectors. A component that is compliant with IEC standards can be identified by the IEC code on the component. IEC standards have numbers in the range of 60000 to 79999. If the number is preceded by EN, it shows that the IEC standard has also been adopted by CENELEC (European Committee for Electrotechnical Standardization) as a European standard.

While different countries have their power cord standards and types, the IEC60320 standard is widely accepted as the international standard used in most countries. It encompasses various connector types, including C13, C14, C19, and C20, each with specific design configurations and current ratings. The standard ensures compatibility and safety across different devices and power sources.

IEC Connector Types

The most widely used of the current IEC connectors are the IEC60320 power cord connectors. The following IEC connector chart lists the common forms of IEC60320 connectors.

From the chart above, it can be seen that IEC connectors come in various types. The most commonly used IEC power connector types include the IEC C13 connector, IEC C14 connector, IEC C19 connector, and IEC C20 connector. The following article will provide you with a detailed introduction to these connector types.

IEC C13/ C14 Connector

The IEC C13 connector, also known as the "kettle lead" or "computer power cord," is widely used in networking devices, servers, and computer systems. It features a three-pin design with a ground connection, making it suitable for high-power applications. The C13 connector is compatible with most electrical appliances and provides a secure and reliable power connection.

The IEC C14 connector is the counterpart to the C13 connector. It is commonly found on power distribution units (PDUs) and power supplies. The C14 connector features three pins and fits into the corresponding C13 socket, creating a stable and efficient power connection. This type of IEC power cord is essential for connecting electrical devices to a reliable power source. FS can provide IEC60320 connectors, and the picture below shows one of the commonly used types, the IEC60320 C14 to C13 connectors.

IEC C19/C20 Connector

The IEC C19 connector is designed for high-power applications, such as data centers and industrial equipment. It features a three-pin design with a higher current rating than the C13 and C14 connectors. The C19 connector is often used in conjunction with C20 inlets found on rack-mounted PDUs, ensuring a secure and robust power supply to power-hungry devices.

The IEC C20 connector is the counterpart to the C19 connector. It features three pins and is commonly found on rack-mounted PDUs and power sources. The C20 connector provides a reliable power connection to devices with high power requirements. The image below provides you with a detailed view of the FS IEC60320 C20 to C19 connector.

Applications of IEC Connectors:

IEC power cords provide a stable power supply for a wide range of scenarios, including data centers, server rooms, homes, offices, and many others. They are designed to deliver reliable and uninterrupted power to critical equipment, ensuring smooth operations and minimizing the risk of power-related disruptions. Whether it's powering high-performance servers in a data center or providing electricity to essential devices in a home or office setting, IEC power cords offer a dependable solution for maintaining a stable power supply.

Different connectors like C13/C14, C5/C6, C19/C20 meet various power needs and device types, serving different situations effectively. Their standard design and different connector types make them work with many types of equipment, fitting easily into different settings. In summary, IEC power cords are essential tools for efficient power transmission, providing secure and efficient power connections for a wide range of devices.

Conclusion

In general, IEC power cords are widely utilized and reliable solutions for power connections. They possess advantages such as standardization, safety, flexibility, and replaceability. FS IEC power cords have passed a 100% electrical test and feature excellent electrical conductivity and flame retardant grade, ensuring safe maximum current transmission. Whether in homes, offices, or various industrial and professional environments, IEC power cords are vital components that ensure the proper operation of equipment.