Author: Emily

Why Use Short Power Cables?

dgsdg

 

Data centers and server rooms can easily become overwhelmingly cluttered by power cords. After all, they’re an essential component for powering your operations! However, with so many power cables, effective cable management must be one of the most important considerations.

One of the most efficient ways to improve cable management is by using short power cables. While standard and long power cords are certainly more common, shorter cables offer a host of benefits to make cord organization easier. Keep reading to learn about the many advantages of using short power cables in data servers and cord-heavy operations!

Using Short Power Cables for Cord Management

Reduced Clutter

By reducing cable lengths to a minimum, the clutter of longer cables is dramatically reduced. This allows equipment and patch panels to be stacked and organized without cord confusion.

Cooler Temperatures

While it’s true that data servers and racks must be kept cool for safe, ongoing operation, it’s also true of power cords. Too many long power cords crammed together can increase heat. Using short power cables increases airflow and clears the exhaust space, helping to reduce heat on both power cords and data servers.

Reduced Resistance

Shorter power cables have lower electrical resistance, reducing voltage drop and power loss. For high-current loads or very long cable runs, using appropriately-sized cables helps maintain efficient operation.

Easier Management

Shorter power cables are easier to manage and often less susceptible to tangling, snagging, and accidental damage than longer cables. They can also reduce clutter and tripping hazards.

Shorter Distances

Why use long power cords for short connections? If servers or data racks are within inches or a few feet of each other, using standard cords can be inefficient and impractical. Rather than trying to contain longer cords by coiling or strapping them, switch to short cords to reduce clutter and create a more seamless solution.

Order Short IEC Power Cables from Quail Electronics, Inc.

Find the power cables you need at Quail Electronics, Inc.! From standard to specialty power cords to IEC power cords and more, we carry a large selection of cables, connectors, adapters, and other electronic accessories to meet your needs. Looking for something more personalized? Our Design A Cord services allow you to create your perfect cable. Helpful resources are available to provide you with up-to-date, valuable information so you can be prepared for any electrical project. With competitive pricing, low minimum order requirements, and same-day shipping on in-stock items, we are your best source for any electrical products.

Contact us with any questions or for more information. Request a quote to get started on your order today!

Put the Power Cord to the Test

Today we’ll be discussing the various “testing” cords must go through in order to be 100% ready to go and meet the requirements for the UL standards (or international safety agency approvals) of cord sets and power cord supplies.

UL generates standards and test procedures for products and equipment focusing on product safety. Power cords undergo some of the most common tests:insulation

  1. A grounding test. The purpose of a grounding test is to protect the consumer from hazards that can be caused by a faulty ground connection. A ground bond test is a high current AC test that measures resistance of the ground path under high current conditions.
  2. The continuity test is carried out under high current, simulating a fault to earth. This test is performed by applying an AC or DC current between the conductive surface and protective earth.
  3. There is a hi-pot test. This is a stress test of the insulation of a device under test DUT (Device Under Test). This means the voltage used in a hi-pot test can either be AC or DC.

Continue reading Put the Power Cord to the Test

Auto-Lock Power Cords: Updated!

Auto-Lock® power cords are a game-changer for secure and reliable connections.

At Quail Electronics, Inc., you’ll find Auto-Lock power cords in an abundance of plug and cable types, with domestic and international approvals. In addition to selecting various plug types, cable types, and lengths, our Auto-Lock series offers multiple color choices, including black, red, green, and blue.

Additionally, Auto-Lock connectors are available in several angled configurations. Our C15 Auto-Lock connectors are available with up and down configurations, while our C13 Auto-Lock connectors and C19 Auto-Lock connectors are available with up, down, left, and right-angled configurations.

With our expansive selection, you can get the Auto-Lock power cords you need in the colors and angles that work best for your application.

Why It Matters

Auto-Lock cords were already an excellent solution for preventing accidental unplugging (or disconnection) from equipment. Their locking mechanism keeps connections secure, even under stress. Now, with added options and configurations, these cables provide:

  • Better Organization: Use colored cables to identify specific cords and organize your cables.
  • Improved Access: The angled connectors make plugging and unplugging easy, even in hard-to-reach areas.
  • Reliable Connection: The proven Auto-Lock locking mechanism ensures your cords stay plugged in unless manually removed.

Different Types of Auto-Lock Power Cords

At Quail Electronics, Inc., we offer a large selection of Auto-Lock power cords for a variety of applications and industries. Our inventory of locking IEC power cords includes:


For assistance in selecting the right IEC Auto-Lock power cord for your devices or operations, contact us today, and a team member will assist you.

Order Auto-Lock Power Cables from Quail Electronics, Inc.

With over three decades of industry experience, Quail Electronics, Inc. is your trusted source for all power cords and electronic accessories. Backed by a team of knowledgeable experts, we can help determine the best solutions for your unique applications. With competitive pricing, low minimum order requirements, and same-day shipping on in-stock items, we get you the power cables you need at prices that work for you.

Contact us or request a quote to get started on your order today.

A Complete Guide to Coiled Power Cords

The term “coiled power cords” can have several different meanings. Both meanings, however, describe power cords created to provide flexibility, durability, and compact storage. Designed to save space, these power cables offer numerous benefits compared to standard straight power cords.

Keep reading to learn about different types of coiled power cords, their benefits and applications, and how they compare to straight cables.

Coiled Power Cords vs. Coiled Power Cords: The Same or Different?

“Coiled” can refer to either how a power cord is stored and packaged:

Or to the cord’s physical design:

Let’s look at the advantages and applications of coiled jacket power cords, and compare them to power cords that are coiled simply for packing and storage.

Coiled Jacket Power Cords

Power cords with coiled jackets are specifically manufactured with a coiled spring design. This composition means these cables have a retractable cord with a spiral jacket and look visibly “curly.” Coiled power cords have a short length while at rest, but can be stretched during use to much longer lengths.

Advantages

  • Compact storage
  • Reduces clutter
  • Maintains coiled shape even with repeated extension
  • More durable than straight cords
  • Increased flexibility
  • Customizable length

Applications

  • Barcode scanners in retail and warehouse environments
  • Mobile medical carts and equipment
  • Portable power tools in assembly lines
  • Communication devices such as corded telephones

Packed Coiled Power Cords

Technically, power cords that are coiled for packing and storage are just straight cables that have been wound up. Coiling a straight cord when not in use can help prevent tangling, protect the cable, and improve storage space. Uncoiling these cables returns them to their original, straight orientation.

Advantages

  • Compact storage
  • Reduces clutter
  • Prevents cord damage or kinks
  • Reduces risk of tangling
  • Quick to uncoil and use

Industrial Coiled Power Cords vs. Straight Power Cords

When choosing between a coiled or straight power cord for applications, consider the flexibility, space, and durability requirements. The main shared traits between actual coiled power cords and coiled wrapped straight cords are that they reduce clutter and can improve storage space.

Contact Quail Electronics, Inc. for Custom Industrial Coiled Cables

Quail Electronics, Inc. is your go-to manufacturer and supplier of power cords and electrical accessories. We boast an extensive inventory of power cords, adapters, power strips, and other components and resources to meet your every need. For unique orders or special demands, we provide custom cable design services to create the right power cords for your applications. With competitive pricing, low minimum order requirements, and same-day shipping on in-stock items, we get you what you need when you need it.

Contact us or request a quote today to get started!

What’s the Difference Between C13 and C15 Cord Connectors?

IEC Power Cables Explained

IEC cables are cords that meet standards for power connectors set by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC). C13 cords and C15 cords are approved by the IEC under the IEC 60320 standard. This standardization helps to ensure safety, uniformity, and compatibility across different manufacturers and applications. IEC cables are commonly used for equipment designed for international use, such as datacom equipment, medical devices, audio/visual equipment, and commercial appliances.

C13 Power Cables vs C15 Power Cables

Feature

C13 Power Cords

C15 Power Cords

Physical Appearance

Lightweight, no notch opposite ground pin.

Heavy-duty, has a notch opposite the ground pin.

Compatibility

Fits with C14 inlets only. Not compatible with C16 inlets.

Compatible with both C14 and C16 inlets. More versatile.

Heat Tolerance

Up to 150°F (65°C).

Up to 250°F (120°C).

Safety

Safe when used within the rated temperature range.

Safe when used within the rated temperature range.

 

C13 and C15 Uses and Applications

C13 Power Cord Applications

IEC-60320-C13_BLACK.jpgC13 power cables are commonly used for applications including:

  • Desktop computers and monitors
  • Printers
  • Networking devices and routers
  • Office and consumer electronics
  • Audio and video equipment
  • Medical devices

C15 Power Cable Applications

IEC-60320-C15_BLACK.jpg

C15 cables are used for high-temperature applications, such as:

  • Server rooms
  • PoE switches (Power over Ethernet)
  • Telecommunications gear
  • High-performance computing equipment
  • Industrial food service ovens

Pros and Cons of C13 and C15 Power Cords

C13 Power Cords

  • Pros: More widely used and readily available, inexpensive, suitable for most standard electronics.
  • Cons: Limited to low-temperature applications, not compatible with C16 inlets.

C15 Power Cords

  • Pros: Excellent for high-temperature applications, compatible with both C14 and C16 inlets, heavy-duty build.
  • Cons: Less common, often more expensive, unnecessary for low-heat devices.

Get C13 and C15 Power Cables from Quail Electronics, Inc.

At Quail Electronics, Inc., we supply a wide range of IEC power cables, including C13 and C15, to meet your specific needs:

With low minimum order requirements, competitive pricing, and same-day shipping on in-stock items, we get you the right electronic components at prices and times that work for you.

Contact us for more information or with any questions. Request a quote to get started on your order today!

Continue reading What’s the Difference Between C13 and C15 Cord Connectors?