A standard power cord set consists of a flexible cord and an electrical connector on both ends. The cord is made of highly conductive copper wire and is insulated with insulative material. The cord has a jacket made of thermoplastic, silicone, fiberglass, or plain rubber. The plug on one end of the cord is attached to a molded electrical receptacle on the other. Listed below are the characteristics of a common power cord set.
A power cord may have two connectors: a fixed lead that connects to the appliance and a detachable lead that can be detached. The latter is a safer option, as there is no live pin to risk when removing the cord from the appliance. Power cords may also feature twist-locking mechanisms or other attachments. Some cord sets have additional accessories such as fuses for overcurrent protection, a pilot light to indicate voltage, a leakage current detector, or a shield covering the power conductors.
Volex offers plug connectors with shrouds for safety and compatibility. The company’s global factory footprint, logistics support, and strong technical capabilities help customers Streamer Lights find the right power cord for their needs. Custom design samples can be provided in a quick turnaround time, and the company has experienced sales and FAE teams in the United States and around the world. So, if you’re in need of custom cords, Volex is the brand to choose.
When choosing a power cord, always check the certifications of the product. UL and CSA standards apply for cord plugs and receptacles, respectively. The UL and CSA certification mark indicates that the power cord is UL and CSA-certified. UL and CSA are the main certification agencies in North America for power cords. You can find out more about these certifications by visiting the websites of UL and CSA.
In order to choose the right power cord for your appliances, you must know the voltage and the country in which you’ll be using it. Regardless of the country, you should always remember to choose the highest quality power cord. Choosing the right cord will protect your electronics and appliances and will save you money in repair and replacement costs. And, it will protect you and your family from dangerous electrical hazards. So, take the time to learn about power cords and get the right one for your needs.
If you’re unsure about which type of power cord you’ll need for your particular appliance, check the plugs and receptacles’ NEMA and CSA standards. They’ll let you know if the plugs and sockets are compatible with each other. Also, make sure to check if there are any special features on the plugs or sockets. Besides the size, the plugs and receptacles’ ratings also vary.
The IEC 60320 standard is a worldwide standard for power cords and is used by most countries. Although different countries use a different code standard, the IEC 60320 standard is generally recognized as the most universal. For power cords that use an IEC standard, “C” stands for a code standard. There are various types of connectors for different combinations of voltage, temperature, and current. The most common cords used worldwide are C13, C14, and C20.
