Understanding IEC C5, C7, and C13 Power Cord Types for Global Electrical Applications

When selecting power cords for consumer electronics, office equipment, or industrial devices, one of the most frequently used global connector systems is the IEC series. Among them, IEC C5, C7, and C13 connectors are the most widely used across the United States, Europe, Asia, and many other regions. For manufacturers, distributors, and brand owners seeking safe and compliant power solutions, it is essential to understand the differences between these connectors and how to choose the proper power cord for each application.

This article provides a complete overview of IEC C5, C7, and C13 power cord types, global certification requirements, usage scenarios, and how a professional manufacturer like Toong Yean Power Connection Co., Ltd. can provide OEM/ODM support for worldwide customers.

---

1. What Are IEC Power Connectors?

IEC connectors are standardized by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC). They are used globally for electrical appliances and ensure compatibility and safety. Many regions—including the United States, Germany, Japan, Korea, and Southeast Asia—adopt IEC connectors as part of their electrical system standards.

IEC connectors differ in their shape, current rating, temperature rating, and application category. The most widely used models today include IEC C5 (commonly called “Mickey Mouse”), IEC C7 (“Figure-8”), and IEC C13/C14 pairs.

---

2. IEC C5 Power Cord: Applications and Features

The IEC C5 power cord has a distinctive three-hole "cloverleaf" or "Mickey Mouse" design. It is widely used in devices with built-in power supplies that need stable grounding or slightly higher current capacity.

Common Applications

• Laptop power adapters (HP, Dell, Lenovo, Acer)

• Portable projectors

• Game consoles

• Small electronic devices with internal power modules

Technical Features

• Rated up to 2.5A–10A, depending on region

• Supports grounded connections

• Available with UL (USA), VDE (Europe), and PSE (Japan) certified plug cables

• PVC, rubber, or high-temperature jacket materials available

Why It’s Popular Globally

Its compact size and grounding design make it safe for travel devices and internationally shipped electronics.

---

3. IEC C7 Power Cord: The Most Common Two-Pin Connector

The IEC C7, also known as the “Figure-8 connector,” is one of the most commonly used connectors in household electronics worldwide. It is a two-pin ungrounded connector ideal for low-power devices.

Common Applications

• DVD/Bluray players

• Set-top boxes

• Radios and small speakers

• LED lighting power adapters

• Gaming consoles (older PS models, Nintendo systems)

• Small household appliances

Technical Specifications

• Ungrounded (2-pin)

• Typically rated for 2.5A–7A depending on region

• Used in UL, VDE, and PSE standard power cords

• Low-profile design enables easy installation in compact devices

Why Manufacturers Prefer IEC C7

It is globally recognized, low-cost, and highly versatile.

---

4. IEC C13 to C14 Power Cords: The Global Standard for IT Equipment

One of the most important IEC pairing systems is the C13 (female) to C14 (male) connector, widely used across data centers, IT rooms, and high-power office electronics.

Common Applications

• Desktop computers

• Server racks

• Monitors

• UPS systems

• Printers and office equipment

• Industrial testing devices

C13/C14 is the backbone of the IT industry's power distribution system and is required in nearly every office and industrial application.

Technical Features

• Typically rated for 10A–15A

• Available in UL (North America), VDE (Europe), PSE (Japan), KC (Korea), SAA (Australia) standards

• Supports multiple jacket types (PVC, rubber, high-temperature)

• Widely used with PDU (Power Distribution Units)

Why It’s Essential for Global IT Systems

C13/C14 connectors ensure modularity, safety, and easy replacement, making them irreplaceable in enterprise environments.

---

5. Regional Standards for IEC Connectors (UL, VDE, PSE)

Different markets require local compliance standards even when using the same IEC connector.

United States & Canada (UL / cUL)

• UL-listed power cords are mandatory

• Common cable types: SJT, SVT, SPT-1, SPT-2

• AWG wire gauge must meet UL standards

Europe (VDE / ENEC)

• Cords must meet H03VV-F, H05VV-F, H05RN-F standards

• Requires strict RoHS/REACH environmental compliance

Japan (PSE)

• Very strict dimensional controls for plugs

• Common types: VFF (flat cable), VCTF (round cable)

• Requires PSE logo and traceability label

Asia-Pacific (CCC, KC, SAA, BSI, etc.)

• Each region has its own certification for plug types

• IEC connectors remain consistent, but plug and cable must meet local rules

---

6. Choosing the Right Manufacturer for IEC C5, C7, and C13 Power Cords

For global brands and importers, selecting a factory that understands multi-country certification is critical.

Key Factors to Consider

1. Complete global certifications (UL, VDE, PSE, CCC, KC)

2. OEM/ODM capability (custom length, cable type, plug mold, packaging)

3. In-house production (injection molding, wire extrusion, testing)

4. Consistency and strict quality control

5. Support for international shipping and compliance documents

Toong Yean Power Connection Co., Ltd., based in Dongguan, China, is a factory specializing in UL, VDE, and PSE power cords. With full manufacturing capabilities and automated production lines, the company supplies power cords to North America, Europe, and Japan with reliable quality and stable lead times.

---

7. Why Companies Worldwide Choose IEC Connectors

IEC connectors provide a universal solution for power cord design, reducing the need for multiple connector formats. For global brands that sell products in dozens of countries, using IEC C5, C7, or C13 simplifies logistics and certification processes.

Key Advantages

• Global compatibility

• Reduced engineering duplication

• Lower inventory cost

• High safety standards

• Widely supported across all continents

---

Conclusion

IEC C5, C7, and C13 power cords are essential components used across consumer electronics, IT equipment, and industrial applications. Understanding the differences between these connectors—and the regional standards that govern them—is critical for brands entering global markets.

Whether your target market is the United States, Europe, or Asia, choosing a manufacturer with UL, VDE, and PSE certification capabilities ensures safe, compliant, and durable power cord solutions.

Toong Yean Power Connection Co., Ltd. provides complete OEM/ODM services and internationally certified cables designed for global applications. With extensive experience in IEC power cord production, the company continues to support worldwide customers with professional and reliable electrical connection solutions.