What are AC power cables and common IEC 60320 connector types

Overview

• A power cable is used to supply alternating current (AC) electrical power from a power source (such as a wall outlet, power strip, or power distribution unit) to a device so it can operate
• The connector types described in this article are defined by the IEC 60320 standard, which applies only to AC power connections. IEC 60320 connectors are not used for DC power delivery
• IEC 60320 defines standardized appliance couplers, including connector shape, orientation, and maximum electrical ratings, to ensure compatibility and safe use across regions and vendors

Common IEC 60320 AC connector types

The ratings listed below are maximum connector ratings defined by the IEC 60320 standard. Actual device, power supply, or circuit ratings may be lower.

• C13 (female cable connector)

  • Mates with: C14 inlet
  • Rating: 10 A, 250 V AC
  • Common use: Servers, storage systems, desktop PCs, monitors

• C14 (male device inlet)

  • Mates with: C13 connector
  • Rating: 10 A, 250 V AC
  • Common use: Power supply inlets on IT equipment

• C15 (female cable connector, high-temperature)

  • Mates with: C16 inlet
  • Rating: 10 A, 250 V AC
  • Temperature rating: Up to 120 °C
  • Common use: Equipment with higher operating temperatures

• C16 (male device inlet)

  • Mates with: C15 connector
  • Rating: 10 A, 250 V AC

• C19 (female cable connector)

  • Mates with: C20 inlet
  • Rating: 16 A, 250 V AC
  • Common use: High-power servers, storage arrays, and PDUs

• C20 (male device inlet)

  • Mates with: C19 connector
  • Rating: 16 A, 250 V AC