How To Choose The Right Power Cord With C13 Plug 

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The power cable typically has three conductors: a black wire for the hot circuit, a white wire for neutral, and a bare green wire, yellow/green striped wire, or green/yellow striped wire for grounding (earth). 

Notably, a power cord’s principal function is transporting current between the equipment and the power outlet. Also, a power cord can be used in any electrical device, regardless of whether it requires 110 V or 220 V. Computers, monitors, printers, and servers are common examples. 

There are numerous power cords, but we will only cover the power cord with a c13 plug today. This article will discuss factors to consider while selecting the best power cord with a c13 plug.


1. Consider Your Rated Current and Working Voltage

black shoes on desk

The rated current is the most significant factor for selecting the power cord with a c13 plug. Rated current expresses the amount of current that can flow between matching terminals in amperes per circuit. Significantly, the current should be increased or decreased according to the number of circuits in a given enclosure and the temperature rise of neighboring terminals.

2. Check Compatibility

Compatibility between the c13 plug power cord and your devices is critical since it allows you to operate gadgets by integrating them with the rest of your smart home devices.

3. Understand The Devices You Will Use Power Cords With

white and black power strip

Following that is the equipment connector type, which determines the power cord type. Distinct countries have distinct standards for connections of powered equipment and power cords: the international standard IEC 60320, NEMA for North America, CEE for Europe, and others, which contain different connector types with varied characteristics. Consider IEC-compliant power cables, such as C13 power cables, which are often used in data centers.

4. Make Sure It Is Environmentally Sealed

Certain situations necessitate protective measures to keep explosive or flammable gases, vapors, dust, or liquids out. The electrical connector should include an environmental sealing option that prevents accidental splashing. Once you’ve determined the security level, you may check the IP rating number in the IP code system to ensure you’re purchasing the suitable electrical connector.

Environmental sealing is critical for safer workplaces, particularly in hostile settings such as aviation, aerospace, underwater, medical, and food.

5. Verify Recommended Operating Temperature Range

black male plug in front of electric socket

Most electrical connectors are exposed to harsh environments such as vibration and shock. Cable and terminal connectors built for extreme and hazardous conditions have particular features that allow them to endure vibration, stress, and extreme temperatures.

As a result, please choose the electrical c13 plug connector based on its placement, the distance from the heat source, the operating temperature, and the plug frequency.

6. Choose the Right Colour

It’s about more than just size and shape when selecting the correct c13 power cord for your purposes. Color is another aspect to consider. The color of a cap or plug might indicate its intended usage or the condition of the equipment it protects.

Red caps or plugs, for example, may signify a dangerous or high-pressure zone, whereas green may indicate a safe or low-pressure zone. Yellow may denote caution or a temporary seal, whereas blue may denote certain tool sizes. 

Overall, color coding efficiently keeps parts organized and ensures that the correct cap or plug is utilized in the correct location. This can save time and help to avoid mistakes during maintenance and assembly procedures.

7. Confirm Reliability Level

Another crucial element to consider when selecting c13 connectors is reliability. However, reliability is a complex term that is affected by several circumstances. The exact figure is difficult to calculate, but some connectors include MTBF requirements. This can help you choose the right electrical connector for your application.

8. Select the Appropriate Cord Gauge and Length

white and blue round device

The cord’s gauge and length determine an extension cord’s load capacity. The cord gauge refers to the wire’s size based on its cross-sectional area. The standard way of designation in the United States is American Wire Gauge (AWG). 

A lower AWG number indicates a larger wire size and a higher cord capacity. 14AWG power cords, for example, are thicker than 16AWG power cords and can carry more electricity than 16AWG cords. Thinker gauge cords are also regarded as future-proof data center power cord alternatives.

Cord length, like cord gauge, relates to the amperage rating of the power cord. Power extension cords can range in length from 2 feet to 30 feet or more but should not exceed 100 feet to avoid power loss and overheating. 

Regarding cable length, the longer the chord, the less power it can send to connected devices. To decrease power loss, use a shorter power cord, especially when using devices with high amperage ratings. You should choose a larger power chord if you need to go a long distance.

9. Material And Plating Factors

Terminal material and plating are normally the final things to consider. Still, because most electrical connectors are made of nylon plastic, they have a flammability rating and are resistant to flames.

Significantly, tin, lead, and choose gold are the standard alternatives for most applications. Phosphor bronze or brass, which has excellent strength and current-carrying capability even when exposed to high ambient temperatures for an extended period, is frequently used as the foundation material.

Bottomline 

Overall, selecting the appropriate power cords for your requirements is critical to ensuring the safety and functionality of your products. When choosing the correct power cords with a c13 plug for your needs, keep the application, material, size, and color in mind. By taking the time to choose the right power cord, you can ensure the safety and security of your products.

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