Search
Power cables are an essential part of electrical connectivity in computing, industrial systems, and everyday electronic devices. One of the most widely adopted standards is IEC 60320, which defines internationally recognized connector types such as C13, C14, C19, and C20.
These standardized designs help ensure safe, reliable, and compatible power delivery across a wide range of equipment and regions.
By understanding the differences between these cable types, it becomes easier to choose the right solution for specific applications, particularly in environments like data centers, server rooms, and high-power electronic systems.
IEC Standard Overview
IEC power cables are based on a two-part structure:
- Device-side connector (appliance coupler)that plugs into equipment
- Power-side connector or inlet, often linked to PDUs or regional plugs
Each connector type is assigned a code such as C13 or C19, with defined current and temperature ratings under IEC 60320 standards.
This classification system allows devices from different manufacturers to operate within a unified global framework.
C13 and C14 Power Cables
C13 and C14 connectors are among the most commonly used in office and IT environments.
C13 Connector
The C13 connector is a female socket used on the device side and is commonly found on desktop computers, monitors, printers, and network equipment. It generally supports up to around 10A current in standard configurations.
C14 Inlet
The C14 connector is the matching male inlet, usually located on:
- Power supplies (PSUs)
- Power Distribution Units (PDUs)
Together, C13-to-C14 cables are widely used in standard computing environments due to their reliability and universal compatibility.
C19 and C20 Power Cables
C19 and C20 connectors are designed for higher power applications where greater current capacity is required.
C19 Connector
The C19 connector is a larger and more robust version of the C13 design. It is commonly used in high-performance servers, enterprise switches, storage systems, and UPS units.
It is rated for higher current loads, typically around 16A or more depending on the region and specification.
C20 Inlet
The C20 inlet pairs with the C19 connector and is usually found on high-power equipment designed for demanding environments.
These connectors are not interchangeable with C13/C14, which prevents incorrect usage in high-load systems.
C5 and C6 Power Cables (Cloverleaf Type)
C5/C6 connectors are often referred to as “cloverleaf” connectors due to their distinctive three-prong shape.
They are commonly used in applications such as laptop power supplies, portable projectors, and a variety of compact electronic devices where space efficiency is important.
These connectors are designed specifically for lower power requirements compared to C13 and C19 types, making them suitable for lightweight and portable equipment that does not require high current capacity.
C7 and C8 Power Cables (Figure-8 Type)
C7 and C8 connectors feature a distinctive figure-8 shape and are widely used in low-power consumer electronics. They are commonly found in devices such as game consoles, audio equipment, and small household appliances where power demand is relatively low.
Due to their ungrounded design, these connectors are suitable only for equipment with lower safety and power requirements, making them ideal for basic electronic applications rather than high-load systems.
C15 and Other High-Temperature Variants
C15 connectors are similar to C13 but designed for higher temperature environments. They are often used in:
- Electric kettles
- High-heat appliances
- Specialized industrial devices
These cables maintain performance under elevated operating temperatures.
| Cable Type | Connector Description | Common Applications | Key Features |
| C13 / C14 | C13 (female device-side socket) / C14 (male inlet) | Desktop computers, monitors, printers, network equipment, PSUs, PDUs | Most common IT standard; supports ~10A; high compatibility in office and data center environments |
| C19 / C20 | C19 (larger female connector) / C20 (male inlet) | High-performance servers, enterprise switches, storage systems, UPS units | Designed for high power loads; typically ~16A or higher; not interchangeable with C13/C14 |
| C5 / C6 (Cloverleaf) | Three-prong “cloverleaf” shape | Laptop chargers, portable projectors, compact devices | Lower power rating; compact design for portable electronics |
| C7 / C8 (Figure-8) | Two-pin “figure-8” shape | Game consoles, audio devices, small household electronics | Ungrounded connector; suitable for low-power devices only |
| C15 (High-Temperature Type) | Similar to C13 but heat-resistant design | Electric kettles, high-heat appliances, industrial equipment | Built for high-temperature environments; maintains stability under heat stress |
NEMA Power Cables Overview
In addition to IEC-standard connectors commonly used for internal equipment and data center distribution, NEMA connectors are widely adopted in North America for wall power interfaces and external power input.
NEMA (National Electrical Manufacturers Association) standards define plug and socket configurations used in residential, commercial, and industrial environments.
Unlike IEC connectors, which are typically used on the device side, NEMA connectors are often used on the mains power side.
Common NEMA Types
NEMA connectors vary by amperage and voltage rating, with different configurations designed to prevent mismatching.
- NEMA 5-15P / 5-15R
One of the most common residential and office power plugs in North America, typically used for computers, monitors, and small appliances. Rated for 15A, 125V. - NEMA 5-20P / 5-20R
A higher-capacity version of the 5-15 standard, used for devices requiring more current, such as professional IT equipment and some industrial tools. - NEMA L6-20 / L6-30 (Locking Type)
Twist-lock connectors commonly used in industrial environments and data centers to ensure secure connections and prevent accidental disconnection.
IEC and NEMA Combination Cables
In many real-world applications, power cords combine NEMA plugs on the wall side with IEC connectors on the device side, such as:
- NEMA 5-15P to C13 (common for PCs and monitors)
- NEMA 5-15P to C19 (used for higher-power IT equipment)
This combination allows compatibility between regional power infrastructure and standardized device interfaces.
In system architecture, the NEMA side connects to the wall outlet or building power source, while the IEC side connects to the device, PDU, or server equipment.
This separation ensures proper compatibility between regional power infrastructure and standardized equipment interfaces.
Key Differences Between Major Cable Types
Power cable types differ mainly in three aspects:
1. Current Capacity
Lower-rated cables like C13 are used for standard IT equipment, while C19 supports higher power loads for enterprise systems.
2. Physical Design
Each connector type has a unique shape to prevent mismatching between incompatible devices.
3. Application Environment
Office equipment typically uses C13/C14 connectors due to their compatibility and suitability for standard power requirements. In data center environments, C19/C20 connectors are more commonly used because they support higher power loads required by servers and enterprise systems.
For consumer electronics, C7/C8 or C5/C6 connectors are generally preferred, as they are designed for lower power devices and compact applications.
Selecting the Right Power Cable
Choosing the correct cable depends on:
- Device power consumption
- Required current rating
- Equipment inlet type
- Environmental conditions
Incorrect matching can lead to inefficiency, overheating, or system instability, especially in high-density computing environments.
Conclusion
Power cable systems based on IEC standards provide a structured and globally consistent approach to electrical connectivity.
From standard office equipment using C13/C14 connectors to high-power enterprise systems relying on C19/C20, each type serves a specific role in ensuring safe and stable power distribution across modern electronic infrastructures.
Explore our full range of power cable solutions and find the right fit for your system. Reach out anytime if you need help or have questions.