It’s all Connected: Understanding Different Power Cables

Understanding the Different Ends of Power Cables: A Quick Guide

Whether you’re plugging in your asic miner, setting up a server rack, or powering an appliance, you’ve probably noticed that not all power cables are the same. The ends—often called connectors or plugs—vary depending on the device, voltage requirements, and country. In this post, we’ll break down the most common types of power cable ends so you can understand what you’re working with and choose the right one for your needs.

IEC Connectors (International Electrotechnical Commission)

IEC connectors are commonly used for computers, servers, appliances, and electronics. Each connector type has a number, making it easier to identify the right one.

• IEC C13 / C14
  • C13 (female) plugs into devices like desktop computers, monitors, and some printers.
  • C14 (male) plugs into a power source like a UPS or power distribution unit (PDU).
  • Often called a “kettle plug” (though actual kettles usually use C15/C16).
• IEC C15 / C16
  • Similar to C13/C14, but rated for higher temperatures.
  • Used for high-heat devices like electric kettles and some networking equipment.
• IEC C19 / C20
  • C19 (female) connects to high-power equipment like servers, large UPS systems, and industrial-grade PDUs.
  • C20 (male) connects to the power source or wall outlet.
  • Larger and more robust than C13/C14; rated for higher current (typically 16A vs. 10A for C13/C14).
  • Often found in data centers and heavy-duty setups.
• IEC C7 / C8 (Figure-8 Connector)
  • Small, rounded figure-eight shape.
  • Common for low-power devices like DVD players, game consoles, and radios.
• IEC C5 / C6 (Cloverleaf or Mickey Mouse Connector)
  • A compact, rounded shape often used with laptop power adapters.
  • Named for its resemblance to a cloverleaf or Mickey Mouse ears.

NEMA Connectors (North America)

In North America, the NEMA (National Electrical Manufacturers Association) standard governs plug and receptacle design.

• NEMA 1-15
  • Two flat prongs, ungrounded.
  • Used for low-power, older devices.
• NEMA 5-15
  • Two flat prongs plus a round grounding pin.
  • The most common household plug in the U.S. and Canada.
• NEMA 5-20, 6-15, 6-20, etc.
  • Variants used for higher voltage/current appliances.
  • These have different pin shapes or orientations to prevent incorrect use.

International Plug Types (AC Mains Plugs)

Different regions use different plug types for wall outlets. These are usually classified by letters A through N. Some common ones:

• Type C (Europlug): Two round prongs; used in much of Europe, Asia, and Africa.
• Type G: Three rectangular prongs; used in the UK, Ireland, and several former British territories.
• Type I: Angled prongs; used in Australia, New Zealand, and parts of China.
• Type E/F (Schuko): Two round prongs with grounding clips; common in Germany, France, and much of continental Europe.

DC Barrel Connectors

Used for delivering low-voltage DC power from an AC adapter to devices like routers, LED lights, and small appliances.

• Sizes vary by inner/outer diameter (e.g., 5.5mm x 2.1mm or 5.5mm x 2.5mm).
• It’s critical to match the size and polarity (positive/negative center pin) to avoid damaging your device.

USB Power Connectors

USB connectors have become the go-to standard for charging and low-power electronics.

• USB-A: Classic rectangular USB port.
• USB-C: Reversible connector capable of high-speed data transfer and power delivery (up to 240W with USB PD).
• Micro-USB: “Hat-shaped.” Previously standard on Android devices and accessories. Still used on some budget devices.
• Mini-USB: A predecessor to Micro-USB, slightly larger and trapezoid-shaped.
  • Common in older cameras, MP3 players, external hard drives, and early GPS units.
  • Rarely used in modern devices but still seen in some legacy hardware.
• USB PD (Power Delivery): A protocol primarily used over USB-C to deliver higher power—ideal for laptops, docking stations, and fast-charging phones.

Final Tip: Check Power Cables Before You Connect

When selecting a power cable:

• Match the connector type (shape and size).
• Check the voltage and amperage ratings.
• Ensure the plug fits the wall outlet or power strip.
• For international use, verify plug compatibility or use a proper adapter.

Quick Reference Table

Connector Type	Common Use	Voltage/Current	Notes
IEC C13/C14	PCs, monitors	250V / 10A	Standard power cable
IEC C15/C16	Kettles, hot devices	250V / 10A	Heat-resistant version
IEC C19/C20	Servers, PDUs	250V / 16A	High-current, heavy-duty
IEC C7/C8	Small electronics	250V / 2.5A	“Figure-8” shape
IEC C5/C6	Laptop adapters	250V / 2.5A	“Cloverleaf” shape
NEMA 5-15	Home outlets	125V / 15A	Most common U.S. plug
USB-C	Phones, laptops	Up to 240W	Fast charging + data

Conclusion

Power cables come in many shapes and sizes, but once you understand the different connector types, you’ll be able to confidently choose the right cable for any job—whether it’s powering a small device or an entire server rack.