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Ultimate FS Power Cords Buying Guide: Find the Perfect Fit for Your Needs

Posted on Aug 10, 2024 by
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In the modern digital era, selecting the right power cords is crucial for smoothly operating devices across different environments, from home offices to enterprise data centers. This extensive buying guide delves into FS power cords, thoroughly examining their various types, features, uses, and advantages. With straightforward and detailed information, this guide is designed to help you make well-informed choices that boost your power solutions' efficiency, safety, and dependability. Explore FS's diverse power cord options to find the perfect fit for your needs.

Understanding Basic Types of FS Power Cords

FS offers various power cords for different scenarios to meet diverse needs. Whether in data centers, offices, homes, or industrial environments, FS power cords provide reliable power connections and superior performance. The table below gives a clear overview to help you identify these different power cord types.

Category
Male Plug
Female Connector
Voltage Compatibility
Application
IEC320 C14
IEC320 C20
IEC320 C13
IEC320 C15
IEC320 C19
NEMA 5-15R
100-250V AC
100-125V AC
Stable power supply for data centers, server rooms, homes, offices, and many other scenarios. Compatible with computers, displays, printers, servers, UPS, PDUs, etc.
NEMA 5-15P
IEC320 C5
IEC320 C13
IEC320 C15
100-125V AC
Suitable for household appliances and office equipment in North America. It offers reliable power and is compatible with computers, printers, and industrial devices.
AS/NZS 4417
JIS 8303
BS1363
UK10BS1363
UK13SABS
IEC320 C5
IEC320 C13
IEC320 C19
100-250V AC
100-125V AC
Ideal for global use, ensuring stable power supply across different countries. It supports various plug standards, making it perfect for international equipment.
IEC320 C14
IEC320 C20
IEC320 C13
IEC320 C19
100-250V AC
Extends power to where it's needed in homes, offices, or outdoors. Compatible with devices like computers and tools, it offers flexibility and convenience.
IEC320 C14 Z-Lock
IEC320 C20 Z-Lock
IEC320 C13
IEC320 C15
IEC320 C19
100-250V AC
Used in data centers and medical equipment, it features a locking mechanism to prevent accidental disconnections, ensuring a stable power supply for critical devices.
NEMA 5-15P
2 x IEC320 C13
100-125V AC
Power up to 2 devices while only using up 1 outlet. Stable power supply for data centers, server rooms, homes, offices, and many other scenarios.
 

Essential Factors to Consider When Selecting Power Cords

Various options were examined in the previous overview of FS power cord products. With so many choices available, selecting the right one might seem challenging. Choosing the appropriate power cord involves several key factors. Understanding these factors will help ensure your equipment operates smoothly and safely. Let’s explore these essential considerations to guide you in making an informed decision.

Cord Length

First, determine the distance between the device and the outlet. Before making a choice, accurately measure the distance to ensure you select the right cord length. This helps avoid tripping over a cord that's too long or struggling to reach an outlet with a cord that is too short. If the existing power cords are not long enough, you can use an extension power cord to connect the device in addition to purchasing longer power cords. FS offers power cords ranging from 1 to 15 ft, with 6 to 10 ft power cords, like PC14C13-15A, suitable for connecting equipment in the data center.

Gauge

Wire gauge determines electrical conductivity and maximum current capacity. Lower gauge numbers indicate thicker wires, while higher numbers indicate thinner wires. Higher currents and longer lengths need a lower gauge number.

    • AWG (American Wire Gauge): In the AWG system, a lower number indicates a thicker wire and a higher current capacity. For example, 14 AWG is thicker than 18 AWG. This system is widely used in North America. For more information about AWG, please refer to American Wire Gauge.

    • European Wire Gauge (Metric): European countries often use the metric system to measure wire diameter in millimeters (mm²). For example, 1.5 mm² and 2.5 mm² are common sizes, where a higher number indicates a thicker wire.

FS offers power cords in sizes from 12 to 18 AWG and 0.75 to 1.5 mm². For data centers, the most commonly used sizes are 12 AWG and 14 AWG, as well as 1.5 mm² and 2.5 mm².

Voltage & Current

Ensure the cord's voltage and current ratings match your device's requirements. Exceeding the voltage rating can cause overheating, damage, or fire risk.FS offers power cords that support 125V and 250V voltages, with current ratings of 7-20A. The most common voltage and current ratings for data centers are 250V and 10A or 13A, providing stable and efficient power for critical infrastructure. The table below details voltage compatibility, plug types, connector types, and corresponding current ratings for power cords.

Voltage Compatibility
Male Plug
Female Connector
Current Rating
100-250V AC
IEC C14
IEC C13
10A/13A
100-125V AC
NEMA 5-15P
IEC C13
7A/10A
250V AC
IEC C20
IEC C19
10A/16A/20A
 

Plug Type

Ensure that the power cord plug type matches your outlet. Different regions use different plug types, so choosing a plug that fits your location is crucial. FS offers a variety of plug types to meet diverse power requirements and regional standards. Below are some common plug types and their applications.

different types of plugs

        •  

Jacket Type

Selecting the right jacket type is crucial for your power cord's durability and safety. PVC is affordable and widely used for its durability. For higher voltages, thicker insulation reduces shock risk, while high-vibration environments need thicker jackets for protection. The table below shows FS's different jacket types and their applications to help you choose the best one.

Jacket Rating
Full Name
Applications
SJT
Service Junior Thermoplastic
General use in environments requiring flexibility and durability. Commonly used for household appliances, office equipment, and light-duty industrial tools.
SJTW
Outdoor-Rated Service Junior Thermoplastic
Outdoor use with added weather resistance. Suitable for outdoor power tools, extension cords, and applications exposed to sunlight, moisture, and temperature changes.
 

Why Choose FS for Your Power Cords Needs

High-Quality Materials: FS power cords use pure copper conductors for superior electrical and thermal conductivity. They feature SJT jackets that meet VW-1 flame retardant standards and offer high abrasion resistance, ensuring safe and reliable transmission. The PVC insulation provides maximum protection for the copper conductors, safeguarding against environmental factors and enhancing overall durability.

High-Quality Materials

Rigorous Quality Control: FS power cords undergo extensive testing, including a 100% electrical performance check that includes open circuit, short circuit compliance, polarity testing, high voltage continuity (Hipot), and insulation resistance testing to meet stringent performance and reliability standards.

International Certifications: Leading global authorities have certified FS power cords, confirming their adherence to stringent international safety and quality standards. These certifications ensure that FS power cords meet the highest safety, performance, and environmental sustainability benchmarks. For instance, the PC20C19-16A (IEC320 C20 to C19) is certified by the EU, PSE, UL/C-UL, CE, and UKCA.

Exceptional Compatibility: FS offers a broad selection of power cord types and configurations, ensuring compatibility with various power systems and connectors. Whether for data center equipment, industrial machinery, or household appliances, FS’s diverse range ensures you find the right solution to meet different application needs, providing flexibility and effectiveness across various environments.

Conclusion

Choosing the right power cord is vital for efficient and safe device operation. FS offers diverse cords for data centers, industrial use, and enterprise applications. Consider factors like length, gauge, and voltage to ensure optimal performance. Trust FS’s high-quality, rigorously tested cords for reliability and durability.

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