In this guide
An IEC cable is a standardized power cord defined by the IEC 60320 specification, used to connect appliances like computers and monitors to a mains power supply using rated, non-locking couplers up to 250V AC and 16A.
- Voltage and current ratings match (e.g., C13/C14 rated up to 10A, 250V)
- Connector pair is correct (e.g., C13 plug into C14 inlet)
- Temperature rating suits the application (e.g., 70°C for C13)
- Current exceeds the connector’s rating, causing overheating
- Connectors are mismatched or non-IEC, leading to poor contact
- Cord is damaged or earthing is missing, creating a shock hazard
What IEC 60320 Actually Means
The IEC 60320 standard is published by the International Electrotechnical Commission and covers detachable power supply cords for household and general-purpose equipment. The standard defines connector shapes, current limits, temperature ratings, and safety requirements so that cords are interchangeable across manufacturers and regions.
Every IEC cable has two ends: an appliance coupler (the end that plugs into the device) and a power inlet or wall plug. The coupler types are numbered — C13, C14, C5, C6, and so on — and each number defines a specific shape, rating, and purpose.
Common IEC Connector Types
| Connector Pair | Max Current | Common Use | Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| C13 / C14 | 10A | PCs, monitors, servers | Most widely used |
| C5 / C6 | 2.5A | Laptops, small appliances | “Mickey Mouse” shape |
| C15 / C16 | 10A | Kettles, hot equipment | Rated to 120°C |
| C19 / C20 | 16A | Rack PDUs, data centers | Higher current capacity |
Why IEC Cables Are Useful
Because the standard is global, the same C13-to-C14 cable works whether you buy it in the US, UK, or Europe. Only the wall-end plug changes to match the local socket standard. This makes IEC cables easy to replace and source cheaply.
They are also detachable by design. You can swap a cable without touching the appliance’s internal wiring, which matters for both safety and convenience. If you work with display connections you may already know that USB-C to HDMI adapters follow a similar principle — one standard interface, swappable cables.
What to Check Before Using an IEC Cable
- Current rating: Match or exceed the appliance’s draw. A C13 cable is rated 10A — do not use it on a device that pulls more.
- Temperature rating: Standard C13 is rated to 70°C. For high-heat appliances like kettles, use a C15 rated to 120°C.
- Connector shape: C13 plugs only into C14 inlets. Check both ends before purchasing a replacement.
- Earth continuity: Most IEC connectors are earthed (3-pin). Never defeat the earth connection.
- Cord condition: Inspect for cuts, kinks, or melted insulation. Replace any damaged cable immediately.
If you are troubleshooting other cable types, our guide on why USB-C to HDMI is not working walks through a similar step-by-step check process you can apply to any connection problem.
Bottom line: An IEC cable is a safe, standardized way to deliver mains power to everyday electronics. Match the connector type, check the current and temperature ratings, inspect the cord before use, and you will have a reliable power connection that meets international safety standards.