FS IEC Power Cord: High-Performance Solutions for Different Cabling Systems
Updated at Dec 26th 20241 min read
In cabling systems, selecting and configuring server power cords, such as IEC power cords or NEMA power cords, are critically important as they directly affect the system's safety, operational efficiency, and maintenance. These power cords are widely used in both low-density and high-density power setups. This article will explore the practical application of IEC power cords in different cabling systems and demonstrate how FS's diverse range of power cords meets the needs of other scenarios, thereby enhancing overall system performance.
FS IEC Power Cords Applications in Different Cabling Systems
FS power cables are your ideal solution whether working on low-density or high-density power system wiring. This guide will demonstrate how to achieve simple, low-density wiring and more complex, high-density wiring using an FS IEC power cord and explain why FS is the right choice.
IEC Power Cord Cabling for Low-Density System
For low-density systems, installing power cords is relatively simple. Take tower servers, for example, where the server connects directly to the facility's AC power using specific regional power cords. However, achieving higher server availability may require redundant AC power, such as through an uninterruptible power supply (UPS). The image below shows two servers using different power cords to connect to a UPS. The server uses a C13 to C14 IEC power cord in image A. In contrast, in image B, the server uses a NEMA 5-15P to C13 power cord, commonly found in North America.
Smaller server rooms, small offices, or home offices (SOHO) generally have less equipment, and the power demand is straightforward. Therefore, low-density power wiring is ideal for meeting basic power needs. The perfect solution for your low-density wiring system is the FS C13 to C14 IEC power cord or the C13 to NEMA 5-15P server power cord.
Stable Power Output Ensures Smooth Operation
FS power cords offer exceptional conductivity and fire-resistant ratings. The C13 to C14 IEC power cord supports stable transmission of up to 15A/250V, while the C13 to NEMA 5-15P power cord supports 10A/125V transmission. This reliable power transmission helps ensure the stability and safety of equipment, reducing downtime and failure risks caused by power fluctuations. It also promotes higher operational efficiency and potential cost savings by minimizing energy loss.
Global Power Cord Options for Diverse Needs
In low-density wiring systems, FS provides a variety of server power cords to meet global power needs flexibly. As mentioned, servers typically require region-specific power cords to connect to facility AC power. FS offers a broad selection of IEC, NEMA, and international power cord options. Each type of power cord also features different connector types to accommodate various device interfaces. This variety makes the wiring process easier and more efficient when switching between different regions and device types.
High-Quality Materials and Certifications for Safety
FS power cords are made with durable SJT material and feature a fully molded design with thicker insulation, making them resistant to oil and capable of withstanding moderate-pressure environments. They support a wide range of device specifications. Enhanced outer jacket performance ensures the safety and durability of the power cords in diverse applications. Moreover, FS power cords are UL-certified in North America, cUL-certified in Canada, and compliant with environmental regulations like RoHS and REACH. IEC Power cord with UL certification meets safety standards and regulatory requirements, ensuring the reliability and safety of equipment operations.
IEC Power Cord Cabling for More Complex High-Density System
Data centers are prime examples of environments requiring high-density power wiring systems. Many servers, storage, and network devices in these centers form a complex ecosystem with high power continuity and capacity demands. Low-density wiring systems cannot meet these needs, as they lack sufficient power supply, redundancy, and scalability. High-density systems are more complex, requiring multiple cables and accessories to establish reliable power connections. Devices like PDUs (Power Distribution Units) and UPS are typically involved. The following image illustrates the method of power wiring for these systems:
High-density power systems use a layered architecture to ensure efficient and stable power distribution, supporting the smooth operation of data centers. This system is divided into three layers: the Access Level, Equipment Room Level, and Cabinet Level, with power distributed through IEC power cords.
Access Level: At this layer, utility power connects to an Automatic Transfer Switch (ATS) and a generator. The ATS ensures automatic switching to the generator during power failures. Power is distributed to the next layer through the Low-Voltage Power Distribution Unit (LPD).
Equipment Room Level: Power from the LPD flows to the Power Distribution Cabinet (PDC) using IEC power cords, ensuring stable current transmission. The PDC distributes power to the Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS), which provides backup power during outages. Power from the UPS is then sent to other PDCs for further distribution.
Cabinet Level: Finally, power from the UPS passes through the PDC and connects to an ATS for redundancy. Power is then distributed by Power Distribution Units (PDU) using high-performance IEC power cords, delivering reliable power to devices such as switches, servers, and monitoring systems.
High-density power systems impose greater demands on performance, stability, and power cord identification. With high-quality power cables, FS effectively addresses these challenges, ensuring stable and reliable support for your power supply system.
Stronger Current Output for High-Power Equipment Needs
C13 to C14 IEC power cords are still commonly used in high-density systems. However, power cords with higher current output are more suitable for high-power equipment. You can use C19 to C20 IEC power cords for data centers to complete connections between servers and UPS or PDUs. The C19 to C20 power cord supports up to 20A/250V transmission, making it ideal for high-power devices such as high-performance servers, storage systems, or other equipment requiring a stable supply. Additionally, using IEC C19 to C20 power cords reduces the risk of cable overheating, enhancing overall system safety and reliability.
Flexible Wiring with Multiple Length Options
In high-density systems, power cords need to be shorter to accommodate tight wiring within racks. Excessively long cords can complicate management and obstruct airflow. However, some servers have hot-swappable fans, which can be accessed by sliding out the chassis. This means the power cords must be long enough to maintain connectivity and power when moving the chassis. FS offers multiple length options and even custom lengths to meet these challenges, allowing device placement flexibility.
Color-Coded Cables for Easy Identification
Color-coded server power cords are beneficial, considering the large number of cables in high-density systems. FS provides blue, red, and black power cords in stock, with additional colors like white, green, and orange available for power cord customization. The main purpose of color coding is to differentiate primary and secondary power supplies, which is crucial for redundancy in data centers. For example, color coding helps distinguish between PoE and non-PoE switches or 10 Gig and 25 Gig servers. This makes maintenance much easier—technicians are less likely to make mistakes when instructed to disconnect a device with a blue power cord. It also simplifies the identification and management of high-density wiring systems.
Power Splitter Cords Simplify Wiring
With more cables, there is often a need for more outlets. FS offers power splitter cords that allow a single power source to supply power to multiple devices, which is particularly beneficial in space-constrained environments with dense equipment. Using power splitter cords can effectively solve the issue of insufficient outlets—buying power cords is more economical than installing additional outlets. This approach also helps reduce the number of cables, optimize space utilization, lower costs, and simplify the wiring process.
User-Friendly Filter for Faster Selection
While FS offers a wide range of power cords with various specifications and features, the good news is that FS offers a complete line of power cables to meet virtually all your power connection needs with easy filtering capability on our website to refine by connector type, length, power, wire gauge, color, and more., making it quick and easy to find the right cords for your needs. FS also offers technical support services to assist you in selecting the right product based on your specific requirements. If you have any questions during the selection process, our online consultation service is always available to help ensure you make the right choice.
Conclusion
IEC power cords serve as a crucial bridge in the power supply system for network equipment. FS offers a comprehensive range of IEC power cords, catering to your needs for stable current output, enhanced flexibility, and convenient color-coded management. In addition to IEC power cords, FS also provides NEMA power cords and other server power cords to deliver reliable support for your multi-functional powering systems.