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In the field of electrical equipment, power cords play a crucial role in the safe and efficient transmission of electricity. Among the many types of power cords, IEC connectors are widely popular due to their versatility, safety features, and ease of use. This article will explore different types of IEC connectors and highlight their importance in ensuring reliable power connections.
Understanding IEC Connectors
IEC stands for International Electrotechnical Commission. It is a global organization responsible for developing standards and specifications for electronic components and technical equipment. Many countries, including the United Kingdom, are member states of the IEC. IEC standards maintain a unified set of specifications and provide a more consistent approach to the manufacture of electronic components.
The IEC is committed to promoting standards for electronic and technical components, while supplementing other globally recognized standards such as ISO and ITU. These organizations operate independently but coordinate with each other to ensure the uniformity of standards.
IEC connectors or plugs are a general term for various electronic and electrical connectors that conform to the standards of the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC). These connectors serve numerous markets, including medical, consumer electronics, industrial, automotive, transportation, and test and measurement.
The IEC tests and standardizes hundreds of interconnect products, as well as capacitors, transformers, cables, sensors, fuses, and other components. IEC connectors are identified through a digital system that indicates the specific applicable standard.
A Guide to IEC Connector Types and Ratings
IEC connectors are standardized power connectors defined by the IEC 60320 specification. They are classified as male or female based on how they connect to power sources and equipment.
IEC Connector Naming Convention
Under the IEC naming system:
- Odd-numbered connectors (C1, C3, C5, etc.) are female connectors
- Even-numbered connectors (C2, C4, C6, etc.) are the corresponding male connectors
Each odd–even pair is designed to mate together and is assigned specific electrical and thermal ratings. In total, there are 13 standardized IEC connector combinations, each intended for different current levels, temperatures, and applications.
IEC Connector Types and Specifications
C1 / C2
Conductors: 2, Rated current: 0.2 A, Maximum temperature: 70°C, Typical use: Low-power electronic devices.
C3 / C4
Conductors: 2, Rated current: 2.5 A, Maximum temperature: 70°C.
C5 / C6
Conductors: 3, Rated current: 2.5 A, Maximum temperature: 70°C, Common use: Laptop power supplies.
C7 / C8
Conductors: 2, Rated current: 2.5 A, Maximum temperature: 70°C, Maximum cable length: Up to 4 meters, Common use: Audio/video equipment.
C9 / C10
Conductors: 2, Rated current: 6 A, Maximum temperature: 70°C.
C11 / C12
Conductors: 2, Rated current: 10 A, Status: No longer part of current IEC standards.
C13 / C14
Conductors: 3, Rated current: 10 A, Maximum temperature: 70°C, Maximum cable length: Up to 10 meters, Common use: Computers, monitors, servers.
LZ-F-2 C13 OEM/ODM Pure Copper AC Power Socket IEC Inlet Socket
C15 / C16
Conductors: 3, Rated current: 10 A, Maximum temperature: 120°C, Common use: Electric kettles, hot appliances.
C16-2 IEC 60320 C16 Socket – UL94V-0 Nylon AC Power Inlet-LANZ
C15A / C16A
Conductors:3, Rated current:10 A, Maximum temperature:155°C, Designed for: High-temperature applications.
C17 / C18
Conductors: 2, Rated current: 10 A, C19 / C20, Conductors: 3, Rated current: 16 A, Maximum temperature: 70°C, Common use: Data centers, high-power equipment.
C21 / C22
Conductors: 3, Rated current: 16 A, Maximum temperature: 155°C.
C23 / C24
Conductors: 2, Rated current: 16 A, Maximum temperature: 70°C, Key Takeaways for Selecting IEC Connectors.
When choosing an IEC connector, always consider:
- Current rating
- Number of conductors
- Maximum operating temperature
- Application environment
Using the correct IEC connector ensures electrical safety, regulatory compliance, and long-term reliability.
IEC Connector Standard
The IEC connector standard primarily refers to IEC 60320, an international standard developed by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC). It defines specifications for power connectors used to connect electrical equipment to mains power, ensuring safety, compatibility, and performance consistency worldwide.
IEC 60320 connectors are widely used in computers, home appliances, medical devices, industrial equipment, and data center infrastructure. This standard specifies key parameters such as connector type, rated current, rated voltage, temperature limits, and mechanical design.
Applications of IEC Connectors
IEC power cables deliver stable and reliable power across a wide range of applications, including data centers, server rooms, homes, and office environments. Engineered to support continuous and efficient power transmission, they help ensure uninterrupted operation of critical equipment while reducing the risk of unexpected power failures.
From high-performance servers in data centers to essential electronics in residential and commercial settings, IEC power cables provide dependable power solutions that support smooth and consistent operation.
A variety of standardized connector types are available to meet different power capacities and device requirements. This versatility allows IEC power cables to adapt easily to diverse equipment and application scenarios.
Thanks to their standardized design and broad compatibility, IEC power cables integrate seamlessly with a wide range of devices and power systems. They are an essential component of modern electrical infrastructure, offering safe, efficient, and reliable power connections for today’s demanding environments.
Conclusion
IEC power cords are widely used, dependable solutions for secure and efficient power connections. They are valued for their standardized design, high safety performance, flexibility, and easy replaceability, making them suitable for a broad range of applications.
LANZ Electronics IEC power cords are 100% electrically tested to ensure consistent performance and reliability. Built with high-quality materials, they offer excellent electrical conductivity and strong flame-retardant properties, supporting the safe transmission of maximum rated current.
From residential and office use to industrial and professional environments, IEC power cords are an essential component for maintaining stable power delivery and ensuring the proper operation of critical equipment.