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?

Universal 3500 series is now Approved for China!

Universal Approved for China

Universal approvedUniversal 3500 series is now approved for China. We’re happy to announce the new CCC approval. At the moment, Quail Electronics offers the IEC-C14 to IEC-C13 jumpers on the market to be internationally and domestically approved. However, our 3500 series power cord now carries UL, C-UL, VDE and China’s CCC approval. That means you can take it all over North America, Europe and China without ever having to switch a thing. Travel the globe with our 3500 series!

How to Crimp Terminals

When connecting an electrical component to a circuit or anther component, safe and durable connections are essential. One method of creating secure connections is by using conductive crimp terminals.

Knowing how to crimp connections is critical to ensuring safety. When done correctly, wire crimping is a reliable method to ensure safe and secure electrical connections.

Overview of Electrical Crimping

In this context, electrical crimping is the process of joining a wire to a terminal connector by compressing a metal barrel around the stripped end of a wire. On power cables, wire crimping is typically performed at the wire ends. Terminal connectors join the cable with a power connector, plug, or directly to the equipment.

As an alternative solution to soldering, wire crimping uses mechanical force to create a secure and durable conductive connection. Crimped connections are resistant to vibration, stress, and corrosion, making them a reliable method for creating electrical connections.

Material List for Crimping Terminal Connectors

Before starting, be sure you have the right tools and gear. Standard electrical crimping tools include:

  • Wire stripper: Used to remove insulation without damaging the wire.
  • Crimping tool: Select the correct size for the terminal you are
  • Terminal connectors: Choose compatible crimp connectors for your wire gauge.
  • Safety glasses: Protect your eyes while crimping.
  • Heat shrink (optional): Adds insulation and extra protection.

How to Crimp Terminals: A Step-By-Step Guide

1. Choose the Correct Terminal Connectors and Wire

The terminal must match your wire gauge. Using the wrong size can result in an incorrect connection or damage. Select the right type of crimping terminal for your wire and connection.

2. Strip the Wire

Use a wire stripper to strip the end of your wire. Remove approximately ¼ inch (6-7mm) of insulation. Avoid nicking or cutting the copper strands, as this can weaken the connection.

3. Insert the Wire into the Terminal

Slide the stripped end of the wire into the terminal until all of the exposed copper is fully inside. The wire’s insulation and the terminal barrel should sit flush, with no gap in between.

4. Align the Terminal in the Crimping Tool

Crimping tools often have multiple sizes. Position the crimping terminal into the correct size, ensuring the wire remains inside the terminal.

5. Crimp the Terminal

Apply pressure by squeezing the crimping tool until the jaws fully compress the terminal barrel around the wire. This creates the crimp.

6. Inspect the Crimp

Gently tug on the wire to confirm the connection is secure. If the wire is easily pulled out, the crimp was not performed correctly and needs to be redone. Always use a new terminal connector to redo the crimp.

7. Apply Heat Shrink (Optional)

Slide the heat shrink tubing over the connection and apply heat until the tube molds around the wire and the terminal. While this step is optional, it is typically recommended as an additional measure of protection, insulation, and durability.

Quail Electronics, Inc. is Your Trusted Source of Electrical Products

With over 30 years of industry experience, Quail Electronics, Inc. is your reliable source of electrical components. We offer a large selection of adapters, power strips, and power cables, including:

With competitive pricing, low minimum order requirements, and same-day shipping on in-stock items, we get you the products you need when you need them at prices that work for you.

Contact us for more information or to speak with a knowledgeable team member. Request a quote to get started on your order today!

Electric Vehicle Part 1

EV plug 1

Electric vehicles have become a way of life. To prove that is true is the new Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) standard put into place by the Obama Administration. By 2025, every new vehicle sold in the United States will need to reach at least 54.5 mpg. In order to operate, the plug-in hybrid EVs that function on batteries need to be charged occasionally. No more trips to the over-populated, busy gas stations. You can fill up right at home overnight or at work during the day. The car simply plugs in while it is immobile for a given period of time. It can also charge while being driven – once the car is coming to a stop and the brakes are applied, kinetic energy is transformed into chemical energy in the battery.

In order to operate, the plug-in hybrid EVs that function on batteries need to be charged occasionally. No more trips to the over-populated, busy gas stations. You can fill up right at home overnight or at work during the day. The car simply plugs in while it is immobile for a given period of time. It can also charge while being driven – once the car is coming to a stop and the brakes are applied, kinetic energy is transformed into chemical energy in the battery.

Continue reading Electric Vehicle Part 1