When considering power cords, many will own or at least have heard of a power cord. This handy electrical device is a tech-savvy tool. Why?
They power a range of appliances, which include smartphones, laptops, printers, TVs, and other devices. Moreover, power cords suit both commercial and domestic environments.
This article covers both their benefits and terminologies.
What Is A Power Cord?
In a nutshell, a power cord is an electrical component. They charge an assortment of modern-day appliances. These appliances connect to a power supply or an electrical utility.
Power cords come in various shapes, sizes, and models, for example, switch power cord.
Below are the terminologies of some of the most popular cords on the market.
Cord Set
A cord set is a connector, a plug, and a power cable. Via a power supply or an electrical utility, a cord set will power an electrical appliance.
Electric Cords
An electric cord is one of the most basic styles. These cords can carry both DC and AC power.
Interconnection Cord Set
Made up of a male and female connector, this cord’s intended use is to connect two electrical appliances over a single appliance. For example, a UPS to a monitor or desktop CPU.
AC Power Cords
This style of power cord conducts electricity in an alternating current form (AC). This is one of the most common cords on the market to date and features numerous electrical outlets.
Extension Cords
These handy tools are hugely beneficial to those who own a plethora of tech gear and want to charge everything consecutively from one location. These cords are often placed in offices, by desks, and in kitchens.
They are used to lengthen the connection between the appliance and the electric utility via an electric plug and a socket connection. As most plugs sit at the base of walls, an extension cord is extremely handy for those who want their appliances to sit on table tops.
Power Supply Cord
This power cord connects an appliance to an electrical utility outlet.
Custom Power Cords
Custom power cords are special order cords. With so many new devices and plug configurations available, it’s not uncommon for people to need a specifically designed cord.
NEMA Power Cords
These electrical cords abide by the National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA) specifications and work in Central, North, and South America.
NEMA 5-15P Power Cords
These power cords feature a Type B electrical plug. This fits to one end. They come in the shape of a NEMA standard plug, rated at 15 A. These plugs boast three pins: one round earth pin and two flat, current-carrying pins (live and neutral).
Generator Power Cords
These are suited to those who need to power up something larger than your typical appliance and come in the shape of high-ampere-rated cords. Their current rating reaches a high of 50 A, even before the power reaches the utility system. One point to note? Generator power cord ratings are required to match the generator outlet boasting the highest rating. This will stop any insulation breakdown.
What Are Power Cords Made From?
Power cords are manufactured from an insulated electrical cable. Some models have one end molded with a connector, others have two ends molded with connectors.
Normally, one end is a plug (often referred to as a male connector). This end connects to the wall outlet, an electrical receptacle, or an extension cord. The other end, as you would guess, is a female connector. This is connected to either another male connector or the appliance. The female connector is often omitted in appliances, with a fixed cable taking its place.
Who Uses a Power Code?
Both domestic and commercial outlets use power cords. Industrial and manufacturing plants, however, rarely invest in them. Why? Plant equipment requires medium to high voltages, as they draw high amounts of current.
Traditional power cords are limited to voltage and current ratings of 125 V to 250 V and 16 A to 20 A, respectively.
If using power cords in the workplace, it’s essential to educate staff on the risks and voltage limits to avoid power cuts and injury.
Conclusion
Power cords are an asset to homeowners and businesses. There are numerous options to choose from. This means there is a cord to suit all. From simple designs to more advanced styles, a power cord is the perfect power companion. Particularly to those wishing to power up everything from monitors to TVs, to refrigerators, and more.
One point to note? Before investing in a power cord, do your research. As mentioned, power cords are limited to voltage and current ratings of 125 V to 250 V and 16 A to 20 A. To avoid blowing a fuse, check the ratings on the appliances you wish to power up.
