{"id":13041,"date":"2026-10-23T06:08:54","date_gmt":"2026-10-23T06:08:54","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/cablefam.com\/?p=13041"},"modified":"2026-10-23T06:08:54","modified_gmt":"2026-10-23T06:08:54","slug":"c13-power-cord-guide","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/cablefam.com\/fr\/blog\/c13-power-cord-guide.html","title":{"rendered":"C13 Power Cords: What They Are and How to Choose the Right One"},"content":{"rendered":"

A C13 power cord<\/strong> is commonly used to connect computers, monitors, networking equipment, and other devices that have a compatible IEC 60320 C14 power inlet. The C13 connector is on the cable side; the matching C14 inlet is built into the equipment. To choose the right cord, check both connection ends, the equipment requirements, and the rating of the complete cable assembly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The term \u201cC13 cable\u201d does not describe every part of a power cord. One end may use a country-specific wall plug, while the equipment end uses a C13 connector. Other cords connect a PDU outlet to equipment inside a rack. The correct choice depends on where the cord starts, where it ends, and what the connected equipment specifies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

What Is a C13 Power Cord?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

C13 is an IEC 60320 connector type commonly found on the equipment end of detachable AC power cords. Its three-contact shape includes protective earth for compatible Class I equipment. The C13 connector mates with a C14 equipment inlet, which has the corresponding pins.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

C13 is a connector designation, not a complete description of the cord. A purchase specification should also identify the plug at the power-source end, cable length, conductor size, jacket or cable type, and applicable electrical ratings. If the cord is intended for a particular market, confirm that the plug and complete assembly meet that market\u2019s requirements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How to Identify a C13 Connector<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Look at the cable-end connector and the equipment inlet separately. A C13 cable connector has recessed contacts; the matching C14 inlet on the device has pins. Connector families can look similar in product photos, so use the moulded identification, equipment label, product drawing, or manufacturer specification whenever available.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Lineup
Connector shape helps with identification, but confirm the exact type from the marking or equipment specification before ordering.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

C13 vs. C14: The Connector and the Equipment Inlet<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

C13 and C14 are the two sides of a matching connection, not interchangeable names for the same part. C13 normally describes the cable-mounted connector, while C14 describes the equipment inlet. For example, a cord that connects a PDU\u2019s C13 outlet to a device\u2019s C14 inlet is commonly described by both ends, such as a C14-to-C13 power cord.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When ordering a replacement cord, check the inlet on the device and the outlet or socket on the power source. Do not select a cable from the C13 keyword alone: the other end might need a regional wall plug, a C14 plug, or another specified connection.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

C13 vs. C15 and C19: Key Differences<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Connector family<\/th>Matching equipment inlet<\/th>Typical distinction<\/th>What to check<\/th><\/tr><\/thead>
C13<\/td>C14<\/td>Common connector for many computers, monitors, and IT devices<\/td>Confirm the C14 inlet and the complete cord rating<\/td><\/tr>
C15<\/td>C16<\/td>Designed for higher-temperature connection conditions; the keyed shape distinguishes it from C13<\/td>Confirm that the equipment requires the C15\/C16 pairing and suitable cable temperature rating<\/td><\/tr>
C19<\/td>C20<\/td>Larger connector family used for equipment designed for this connection<\/td>Confirm the C20 inlet, current requirements, and the rating of the complete cord<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

These connector families are not simple upgrades from one another. C15 is associated with a higher-temperature C16 inlet, while C19 is a larger connector designed for a C20 inlet. Use the equipment\u2019s specified connector and do not force a connector that does not match the inlet.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Electrical ratings vary by market and by the exact cordset. An IEC connector\u2019s rating alone does not guarantee that the finished cord has the same rating: the wall plug, cable, conductor size, terminals, approvals, and conditions of use all matter. Always follow the product label and equipment documentation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Where Are C13 Power Cords Used?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

C13 power cords are commonly used with desktop computers, monitors, printers, network switches, and other office or IT equipment that provides a compatible C14 inlet. The connector family is common, but not universal; smaller adapters and some appliances use different connector types.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"C13
Check the equipment\u2019s actual inlet before choosing a replacement cord.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

For office installations, the cord\u2019s wall plug must match the local outlet, and the cord must meet the equipment\u2019s voltage, current, and safety requirements. For replacement purchases, also check length and routing so the cable can reach without being stretched, pinched, or placed under tension.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Using C13 Cords in a Rack or PDU Setup<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

In a server rack, the power distribution unit (PDU) and the equipment determine the cord ends. A PDU may provide C13 outlets for cords that terminate in C14 plugs at the source end and C13 connectors at the equipment end. Other PDU and equipment combinations use different connector families, so verify both sides rather than assuming every rack cord is the same.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"C13
In a rack, match the cord to both the PDU outlet and the equipment inlet, and leave enough room for safe cable routing.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Before ordering rack power cords, confirm connector type at each end, cable length, current and voltage requirements, cable routing, and any required locking or angled connector design. The lowest-rated component in the complete assembly may limit the cord\u2019s usable rating.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

C13 Power Cord Buying Checklist<\/h2>\n\n\n\n