The power cables category covers IEC power cords for computers, monitors and printers, extension leads, internal PC power cables, DC cables and plug adapters. It suits home users, offices and IT professionals. INLINE, ACT, Microconnect and Bachmann supply the most models, and the range runs to over 3,000 products.
How to choose a power cable
Connector type. Start by looking at the socket on the back of the device. Computers, monitors and many printers usually need a cord with a C13 connector, some laptop chargers use C5 or C7, and heavier server and UPS equipment sometimes calls for C19.
Plug. In Lithuania the standard is the European plug (Schuko, CEE 7/7). A cord with a different national plug is only needed for equipment brought in from another market, and a plug adapter can help in that case too.
Current rating and cable thickness. An ordinary IEC cord is enough for a single PC or monitor. Powerful workstations, servers and several devices running together are better served by a thicker cable with a higher current rating, which is normally marked on the plug or the cable.
Length. Measure from the socket to the wall outlet and add a little slack. A cable that is too short strains the connector, and one that is too long tangles behind the desk. If you are short of outlets, choose an extension lead with several sockets.
Internal and DC cables. Internal cables must match both the power supply and the component: 24-pin ATX, CPU EPS, PCIe for a graphics card or SATA for a drive. Cables for modular power supplies often cannot be swapped between manufacturers, so buy ones made for your unit. For DC cables, match the plug diameter, voltage and polarity.
Brands in our range
- INLINE: a German brand of computer cables and accessories, with both IEC power cords and internal cables on offer.
- ACT: a Dutch maker of connectivity products, known for office and IT cables.
- Microconnect: a cable and connector supplier with IEC cords in many different lengths.
- Bachmann: an Austrian manufacturer known for multi-socket power strips and extension leads.
- AS Schwabe: a German maker of electrical installation products, offering extension leads and socket solutions.
- Delock and Roline: computer connectivity brands with many specialised adapters and cables.
- Lenovo: a computer manufacturer whose cables are made for its own laptops, workstations and servers.
Also in our range: Sygonix, Wentronic, Good Connections.
The largest subcategory is IEC computer power cords, with over 2,400 models. Alongside it you will find over 200 extension leads, over 150 internal PC power cables, over 90 DC cables and a small selection of plug adapters.
Frequently asked questions
Which power cable fits a desktop PC?
Most desktop power supplies and monitors use a standard IEC cable with a C13 connector at the device end and a European plug at the other. Check the socket on the back of the device before buying. If it has three pins and a rectangular shape, a C13 cord is very likely the right one.
What is the difference between C13, C5 and C7 cables?
They are different connectors on the device end. C13 has three pins and is used for computers and monitors, C5 also has three pins but is smaller and used by some laptop chargers, and C7 has two pins and is shaped like a figure of eight. They are not interchangeable because they physically do not fit.
Can I use a longer power cable than the one supplied?
Yes, as long as the connector matches and the cable is rated for at least the same current as the original. At home, a longer cord for a PC or monitor does not normally cause problems. For powerful equipment, choose a thicker cable.
What should I check when buying a DC power cable?
The plug diameter, voltage and polarity must all match. A wrong polarity or voltage can damage the device, so read these details on the power supply or next to the device socket before choosing a cable.
