Confused between NEMA & IEC power cords? No more. Here’s everything you need to know about them to make an informed decision.

A power cord is an important component for all the cord connected electrical devices. Here’s a breakdown to its connection types and regulatory issues.

NEMA Power cords are the essential requirement to power your computer. SF Cable provides NEMA approved power cords that meets all the safety and compliance standards set by the governing body.

Talk about the majorly used power cord types and you are sure to hear the names IEC and NEMA power cords. As you all know, NEMA – which stands for National Electrical Manufacturing Association is the body that is responsible for publishing international standards for different equipment and their interconnections. In today’s blog, we shall talk about NEMA & IEC power cords and provide you with some tips to consider when you want to buy them online.

Power Cord And Their Types

Looking at a power cord, you will see a single cable that has a pair of couplers on its ends. You can detach these ends from the device and electrical supply. Using it, you can connect a portable electronic device with the supply line. Also, it can easily pass through an extension cord or a wall socket.

Now let’s discuss its anatomy in detail. A power cord has two major parts – The Cable Plug and the male connector. One can connect the AC outlet for rendering electricity. The receptacle on the other end, also known as the female connector connects to the equipment. Search the internet and you will find an array of connector and interface types. But the IEC and NEMA Power Cords we are referring to are usually available in North America.

Now, let’s talk about the types.

National Electrical Manufacturing Association is responsible for certifying different cord types in North America and other countries. These cords have amperages from 15 to 60 and voltages from 125 to 600. It is also possible to create customized and non-interchangeable plug types based on voltage or amperage. You will find several types of NEMA plugs available in North America; out of which NEMA 1-15-P & NEMA 5-15-P and C14 to NEMA 5-15 Power Cords are the most popular ones. NEMA Type 1 has prong or a round pin underneath the two flat prongs; whereas NEMA type 5 makes use of 3rd pin when it comes to grounding.

Right from the moment we wake up, until the time will sleep, we make use of power cords attached with different electronic paraphernalia. This guide will acquaint you with different types of power cords and their utility.