Power cords are cables that are used in the connection of electrical appliances to an outlet. They are also commonly used in consumer products, information technology equipment, outdoor applications, and hazardous environments. Cords vary in their construction, based on the rated current and voltage, wire gauge, and jacket material. They can be molded into specific shapes or have different materials for a particular application. The jacket material and shape are determined by the purpose and the environment. Cords used for outdoor applications are often waterproof, while cords intended for contact with a heat source are yellow-striped.
Cords meet specific standards in different countries. For instance, the plugs of cords used in the United States meet UL 498 standards, while those in Canada use CAN/CSA C22.2 no 42. Cord conductors are rated in AWG (American wire gauge) or in millimeters. In addition to standardization, North American power cords are also certified by agencies such as UL and CSA. NRTL certification marks are also common on North American cords.
In the early 1900s, manufacturers first began using a type of wire called Romex. The two-wire PVC-insulated cords were cheaper and a good substitute for copper. However, they l1430 were soon banned due to corrosion. Asbestos, a common insulator in cloth wire, was banned in the 1970s. These days, most American homes use three-wire PVC-insulated cable. These power cords are used with power adaptors and are safe to use in a variety of environments.
AC and DC cords are a must for most electronic devices. The alternating current (AC) cords provide a constant source of electricity to an electrical device. They are permanently attached or removable, and have different designations, indicating the voltage and temperature threshold. Cords are simply lengths of wire secured inside of a rubber outer covering to protect the electrical device and other devices. They are also used for home appliances that have no power cords attached.
Different power cords have different plugs. Plugs are generally straight, while a right-angled plug will reduce the risk of excessive wear on the cable. However, if the electrical device is placed inside of a small space, the right-angled plug can prevent excessive cable wear. When determining which plug is the right one for a particular appliance, check the label to make sure that it has a plug with the proper angle.
The AC power cords are the most common type, although some battery-operated devices use custom power cords. They are used for special applications and are made to lengthen the connection between an electrical appliance and an electric utility. They have a socket connection on one end and a plug on the other. A power cord can be either custom-made or mass-produced. Choosing the right cord is an important decision, and can save you time and money on repair costs.
In addition to the type of plug and connector, IEC 60320 is another international standard that governs power cords. The cords are typically listed by their voltage, current, and temperature. The IEC 60320 standard specifies various types of connectors, with the highest being C13. A coupler connector depends on the shape and dimensions of the plug and appliance. The power cords can be easily identified by the “C” designation on the cords.