IEC power cords connect computers, monitors, servers, power adapters and other equipment to a wall socket or power strip. Our range of over 500 models covers C13, C5, C14, C7, C15 and C19 cords from Microconnect, Qoltec, Lenovo and Lindy, among others.
How to choose an IEC power cord
Connector type. Look at the inlet on your device and match it exactly. C13 is the usual choice for desktop PCs, monitors and many network devices, C5 (three-lobed) and C7 (figure-of-eight) are common on laptop adapters and small electronics, and C19 is used on servers and heavy-duty power distribution units. In our range C13 is the most listed end connector, followed by C5, C14 and C7.
Gender and direction. A standard cord has a male plug at the wall end and a female connector at the device end, and most cords in our range are built this way. A cord with a male C14 at one end and a female C13 at the other is a different product: it extends a device inlet or links equipment to a power distribution unit in a rack.
Length. Measure the route from the socket to the device, then add some slack so the cable is not under tension. Lengths from 0.5 m to 5 m are available, and 1 m, 1.8 m and 3 m are common. Short cords keep rack and desk cabling tidy, while 3 m or 5 m reaches across a room without an extension lead.
Straight or angled connectors. Angled connectors sit flat against the wall or the back of a device, which helps when furniture or a rack leaves little space behind the equipment. Most cords have straight ends, but angled versions are available at both the plug and the device end.
Current rating and colour. C13 cords are typically rated for 10 A and C19 cords for 16 A, so check that the cord suits the load, especially for servers and workstations. Most cords are black, but white, blue, red, orange and grey are also available, which is useful for colour-coding circuits in a rack.
Brands we carry
- Microconnect: the largest brand in this category in our range, with a long list of cord lengths and connector combinations for office and server use.
- Qoltec: a Polish brand known for power supplies, chargers and accessories, with cords that match its adapters.
- Lenovo: a computer manufacturer, so its cords suit Lenovo desktops, workstations and power adapters.
- Lindy: a connectivity specialist founded in Germany, known for cables and adapters for professional AV and IT installations.
- StarTech.com: a Canadian maker of IT connectivity accessories, often used in offices and server rooms.
- Gembird: known for low-cost computer cables and accessories for everyday home and office use.
- Lanberg and EFB Elektronik: European suppliers of cabling and network infrastructure products, including power cords for racks and cabinets.
Also in our range: DSIT, InLine, Savio and Maxtrack.
IEC power cord FAQ
What is an IEC power cord?
An IEC power cord is a detachable mains cable with a standardised connector at the device end, defined by the International Electrotechnical Commission. Because the cord is separate from the device, you can replace it, change its length or swap the plug type without replacing the equipment.
What is the difference between C13 and C14?
C13 is the female connector that plugs into a device, and C14 is the male inlet on the device itself. A cord with a C13 end fits a C14 inlet, which is how most desktop PCs and monitors are powered. They carry the same current rating and differ only in gender and where they sit in the connection.
Which power cord does a laptop charger need?
It depends on the inlet on the charger. Many laptop adapters use a C5 (three-lobed) or C7 (figure-of-eight) inlet, so check the shape on yours before ordering. Cords for these connectors are available in lengths from 0.5 m to 5 m.
When do I need a C19 power cord?
You need a C19 cord when the equipment has a C20 inlet, which is typical of servers, large UPS units and rack power distribution units. C19 connectors are larger than C13 and are designed for higher current, so a C13 cord cannot be used in their place.
