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IEC power connectors often look similar at first glance. A C13, a C15, and a C19 may all appear to be standard rectangular power inlets, yet they are not interchangeable. Using the wrong connector can lead to installation issues, overheating, or compliance problems.
For device designers, data center operators, and appliance manufacturers, understanding the difference between C13, C15, and C19 connectors helps prevent costly mistakes. This guide explains how these connectors differ, why temperature and current ratings matter, and how to choose the right inlet for your equipment.
Why Similar-Looking Connectors Are Not Interchangeable
IEC 60320 connectors are standardized, but they are designed for different operating conditions. The differences are not cosmetic. They relate directly to heat tolerance, current capacity, and safety margins.
A useful analogy is tire selection for vehicles. Two tires may look similar in size, but one is rated for higher speed or heavier load. Using the wrong tire may work briefly, but it introduces risk over time. Power connectors behave the same way.
C13 vs. C15: Temperature Makes the Difference
Physical Difference You Can See
The easiest way to distinguish C13 and C15 connectors is a small mechanical detail. A C15 connector has a notch near the bottom edge, while a C13 does not. This notch prevents a standard C13 cord from being inserted into a high-temperature inlet.
This design is intentional. It acts as a physical safeguard against using a connector that cannot tolerate higher heat.
Temperature Ratings Explained
- C13 connectors are designed for standard temperature environments. They are commonly used with equipment that produces limited heat during operation.
- C15 connectors are designed for higher temperature conditions. They are built with materials that tolerate elevated surface temperatures around the inlet.
This distinction explains why a high temperature IEC connector like C15 exists. It is not about higher current, but about thermal exposure near the connector.
Typical Applications
C13 connectors are widely used in:
- Desktop computers
- Monitors
- Office electronics
C15 connectors are used in:
- Electric kettles
- Commercial coffee machines
- High-density server equipment with hot exhaust airflow
In these applications, the connector may sit close to a heat source. Using a C13 in this environment can accelerate material aging or deformation.
C13 vs. C19: Current Capacity Is the Divider
While C13 and C15 differ mainly by temperature tolerance, C13 vs. C19 is about current capacity.
Amp Ratings Compared
- C13 connector amp rating: typically up to 10A
- C19 connector amp rating: typically 16A, sometimes 20A depending on region and specification
C19 connectors are physically larger. The increased size supports thicker conductors and improved heat dissipation under higher current loads.
Why Data Centers Use Both C13 and C19
In data centers, it is common to see Power Distribution Units (PDUs) with a mix of C13 and C19 outlets. This allows flexibility.
Lower-power devices, such as network switches or standard servers, use C13. Higher-power equipment, such as blade servers or storage arrays, require C19 connections.
This mixed approach allows one PDU to support a range of equipment without oversizing every outlet.
Why You Cannot Replace C19 with C13
A C13 connector may physically fit into some environments, but it is not designed to carry the same current. Using a lower-rated connector in a higher-load application can lead to:
- Excessive heat buildup
- Connector deformation
- Reduced service life
The connector becomes the bottleneck, even if the cable and device are rated for higher power.
Choosing the Right Connector for Your Product
Step 1: Calculate Power and Current
Start with the device’s rated power and supply voltage. Current increases as power demand increases. This determines whether a 10A connector like C13 is sufficient or if a higher-capacity option like C19 is required.
Step 2: Evaluate the Thermal Environment
Consider where the inlet is located. Is it near a heat source? Is hot air exhausted nearby? Appliances and high-density electronics often expose connectors to elevated temperatures.
If the inlet operates in a warm environment, a C15 inlet may be more appropriate than a standard C13.
Step 3: Consider Installation and Service Use
Devices in data centers, commercial kitchens, or industrial settings are often plugged and unplugged repeatedly. Higher-rated connectors handle mechanical stress and thermal cycling more consistently over time.
Quick Comparison Table
| Connector | Max Current | Temperature Tolerance | Typical Use |
| C13 | 10A | Standard | PCs, monitors, office equipment |
| C15 | 10A | High temperature | Kettles, hot appliances, dense servers |
| C19 | 16A / 20A | Standard to elevated | Servers, PDUs, high-power equipment |
Common Selection Mistakes
One common mistake is choosing C13 because it is widely available, without checking thermal conditions. Another is assuming C15 supports higher current, when its advantage is temperature resistance, not amp capacity.
A third issue appears in product redesigns. Power requirements increase over time, but the inlet remains unchanged. Revisiting connector choice during redesign cycles helps avoid this mismatch.
Final Thoughts
C13, C15, and C19 connectors serve different roles, even though they may look similar. C13 suits standard power and temperature conditions. C15 handles higher heat near the inlet. C19 supports higher current loads.
Understanding the difference between C13 and C15 and knowing the C19 connector amp rating helps align connector choice with real operating conditions. This reduces thermal stress, improves reliability, and simplifies compliance across markets.
Need High-Temperature or High-Current IEC Inlets?
LANZ offers custom IEC power inlet solutions designed for high-temperature and high-current applications. Contact our team to explore C15 and C19 inlet options tailored to your product requirements.