IEC-60320 Connector Guide for AC Power Cables
Aug 09, 2025
IEC-60320 Connector Guide for AC Power Cables
Choose the right C5/C6, C7/C8, C13/C14, or C19/C20 cable with quick-read diagrams, ratings, and buying tips—by Conversions Tech.
What is IEC-60320?
IEC-60320 (formerly “IEC-320”) is the international standard that defines appliance couplers for AC power—ensuring compatible, safe connections across devices up to 250 V and common current ratings (e.g., 2.5 A, 10 A, 16 A). These standardized shapes—like C5/C6, C7/C8, C13/C14, and C19/C20—let you match the right cord to your equipment quickly.
Note: Regional approvals can affect printed ratings on cordsets. Always verify your device’s input label and local code requirements.
Quick selection tips
- Match the connector family (e.g., device inlet C14 → choose a cord with a C13 female).
- Pick the right gauge (18 AWG for light duty; 14–12 AWG for higher current or longer runs).
- Choose the length that keeps slack tidy but avoids tension.
- Consider angled, locking, or LSZH options for tight racks and compliance.
How to choose the right AC cable
- Identify your device inlet (look near the power socket on your gear). It will be labeled (e.g., “C14”, “C20”).
- Check voltage/current on the device label (e.g., 100–240 V, 10 A).
- Select cordset: pick the matching IEC female (C13 mates to C14; C19 mates to C20), then choose your wall plug (e.g., NEMA 5-15P for US).
- Size the wire: longer runs and higher current ⇒ lower AWG (thicker wire).
Connector types & diagrams
C5 / C6 — “Cloverleaf”
Typical: 2.5–7 A · 250 V
Common with laptop power supplies and small projectors. The C5 (female) cord end mates with a device inlet C6 (male). Compact, three-pole design.
- Use cases: laptop bricks, portable AV
- Best picks: short lengths to reduce clutter; 18 AWG is typical
C7 / C8 — “Figure-8”
Typical: 2.5–7 A · 250 V
Two-pole connector used in small electronics. The C7 is the unpolarized “figure-8” female; C8 is the corresponding device inlet.
- Use cases: set-top boxes, game consoles, small AV
- Tip: keep lengths modest; 18 AWG or 20 AWG is common
C13 / C14 — Desktop & Server Standard
IEC rating: 10 A · 250 V (region approvals vary)
The most common three-pole connector for PCs, monitors, and many servers. C13 is the cord end (female) that mates with a device inlet C14 (male).
- Use cases: desktops, monitors, PSUs, light-duty PDUs
- Wire: 18–14 AWG depending on length/current
C19 / C20 — High-Power & PDUs
IEC rating: 16 A · 250 V (often 20 A in NA cordsets)
Designed for higher current loads in servers, UPS, and enterprise PDUs. C19 is the cord end (female) that mates with C20 inlets.
- Use cases: high-draw servers, storage, UPS
- Wire: 14–12 AWG recommended for current/length
IEC-60320 ratings & common uses
| Connector | Poles | IEC Voltage / Current | Common Devices | Suggested AWG |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| C5/C6 | 3 | Up to 250 V · ~2.5–7 A* | Laptop bricks, projectors | 18–16 AWG |
| C7/C8 | 2 | Up to 250 V · ~2.5–7 A* | Set-top, game console, AV | 20–18 AWG |
| C13/C14 | 3 | 250 V · 10 A (typical IEC) | Desktop, monitor, PSU | 18–14 AWG |
| C19/C20 | 3 | 250 V · 16 A (often 20 A NA) | Server, UPS, PDU | 14–12 AWG |
*Region/agency approvals can allow higher amperage on cordsets. Always check the marking on the exact cable and your device label.
Why Conversions Tech AC cables outperform generic cords
- Safety first: UL/CSA-listed selections with robust strain relief and precise pin geometry.
- True-to-spec copper: Consistent conductor gauge for cooler operation and lower resistance.
- Data-center ready: Options for right-angle, short-lead, and high-draw deployments.
- Reliability you can feel: Snug mating fit minimizes intermittent power loss.
- Inventory depth: Popular lengths (0.5–15 ft) ship fast, so projects don’t wait.
What to put on your PO
- Connector pair (e.g., NEMA 5-15P → C13)
- Length & jacket type (e.g., SJT, LSZH)
- Wire gauge (AWG) & rating
- Specials (angled, locking, color)
- Certs needed (UL, CSA, RoHS)
FAQ
Is C13 the same as C14?
Can I use a C13 cord on a C20 inlet?
Which AWG should I pick?
Do you offer right-angle or locking cords?
