International Power Cords and Plug Types

Wall plug and appliance end: two ends to get right

The wall end must fit the outlet where you use the equipment: Type A and B (flat pins) in North America and Japan, Type C and F (round pins) across most of Europe, Type G (rectangular pins and a fuse) in the UK and Ireland, and Type I in Australia and New Zealand. The other end must fit the inlet on the device. C13 is common on desktop power supplies and monitors, C5 on many laptop adapters, and C7 (figure-8) on small adapters, consoles and some printers.

Voltage, grounding and listings that are not power cords

A cord does not change voltage. Check the label on the power supply: 100 to 240 V means it works anywhere with just the right plug, whereas a fixed 115 V device would need a voltage converter. Keep the ground pin: a three-pin device needs a three-conductor cord, and bypassing the ground is unsafe. Look for the rating, often 10 A at 250 V for C13 cords, and the regional safety mark. This category also lists some low-voltage 12 V cords, modules and riser cables, so make sure the title names a plug type and a connector.

Questions about International Power Cords and Plug Types

Can I use a US power cord in Europe?

The plug shape is the only issue if the equipment is rated 100 to 240 V, as most PC power supplies, laptops and monitors are. Use a cord with the local plug. A cord alone cannot fix a device rated for 115 V only.

What is a C13 power cord?

It is the standard three-pin appliance cord with a female C13 connector at the device end, which fits the C14 inlet on desktop power supplies, monitors and many printers. The wall end varies by country.

Is a plug adapter as good as a cord with the local plug?

A plug adapter only changes the pin shape and may drop the ground connection. Make sure its rating is above the load. A cord made with the right plug avoids both questions and is the neater choice for a desktop PC.