C13 insert connector IEC 60320 10A 250VAC computer power cable supplier New Delhi India – Techlon India

C13 Insert Connector

New!

Technical Details: C13 Insert Connector

Material
Brass
Mount Type
Cable Mount
Voltage
220 V
Usage/Application
Power
Color
White
Category: Tag:

Description

The C13 Insert Connector is one of the most widely used power inlet connectors in the world, designed according to the IEC 60320 standard for appliance couplers. It is a female connector typically mounted on appliances, designed to mate with the C14 plug. Commonly known as the “kettle connector” (though the actual high-heat kettle connector is C15/C16), the C13 is recognized for its rectangular housing with three parallel slots – live, neutral, and earth.

C13 connectors are integral to countless electrical and electronic devices, including desktop computers, servers, monitors, networking equipment, power distribution units (PDUs), printers, and laboratory instrumentation. Their global acceptance, robust design, and compliance with safety standards make them the connector of choice for Class I appliances requiring grounding protection.

Design and Construction

  1. Shape and Pin Layout

    • Rectangular housing with a slightly trapezoidal profile to prevent incorrect mating.

    • Three slots: two parallel flat blades for line (L) and neutral (N), with a central rounded slot for earth (E).

    • Polarized design ensures that plugs cannot be reversed or incorrectly inserted.

  2. Housing

    • Made from high-temperature thermoplastic or thermoset material.

    • Typically black, though white and gray versions are available.

    • Designed for panel mounting (insert type) using snap-fit or screw-fix methods.

  3. Contacts

    • Copper alloy (commonly brass or phosphor bronze) with nickel or tin plating.

    • Plating prevents corrosion and ensures stable long-term conductivity.

Electrical Specifications

  • Rated Voltage: 250 VAC (maximum operating voltage).

  • Rated Current: Typically 10 A (worldwide standard), but regional versions rated up to 15 A (North America).

  • Frequency: 50 / 60 Hz.

  • Dielectric Withstand Voltage: Up to 2,000 VAC for 1 minute (between live/neutral and earth).

  • Insulation Resistance: ≥ 100 MΩ at 500 VDC.

  • Contact Resistance: ≤ 30 mΩ (ensures low power loss and heat dissipation).

Thermal and Mechanical Properties

  • Operating Temperature Range: -25 °C to +70 °C (standard), with high-heat versions up to +120 °C.

  • Flammability Rating: UL94V-0 housing material (self-extinguishing thermoplastic).

  • Mating Durability: ≥ 5,000 insertion/withdrawal cycles.

  • Retention Force: Typically 10–40 N to prevent accidental unplugging.

  • Vibration Resistance: Stable under moderate vibration, suitable for IT and industrial racks.

Mounting and Variants

  • Mounting Style: Insert (panel-mount), available in snap-in or screw-mount versions.

  • Termination Types:

    • Quick-connect terminals (6.3 mm, 4.8 mm, or 2.8 mm).

    • Solder lug terminals.

    • PCB solder pins (for integration into boards).

  • Variants:

    • Shielded versions for EMC applications.

    • Integrated with switches or fuses.

    • Right-angle or low-profile versions for compact designs.

Safety and Compliance

C13 connectors are fully standardized, ensuring interchangeability and global acceptance. Compliance includes:

  • IEC 60320-1 / IEC 60320-2-2 (International standard for appliance couplers).

  • UL 498 / CSA C22.2 (North American certification).

  • ENEC / VDE (European approvals).

  • CCC (China Compulsory Certification).

  • PSE (Japan).

  • RoHS / REACH Compliant (environmental safety).

Applications

The C13 insert connector is ubiquitous in modern electrical and electronic equipment. Typical applications include:

  • Information Technology: Computers, monitors, servers, switches, routers, PDUs.

  • Consumer Electronics: Televisions, audio equipment, gaming consoles.

  • Industrial Equipment: Laboratory analyzers, instrumentation, test benches.

  • Office Equipment: Printers, copiers, shredders, scanners.

  • Medical Devices: Imaging systems, monitoring devices (non-life-support critical).

  • Broadcasting and AV Equipment: Studio gear, amplifiers, mixing consoles.

Advantages

  • Universality: Accepted worldwide, ensuring compatibility with globally available power cords.

  • Grounding: Provides Class I protective earth connection for safety.

  • Durability: High cycle life with consistent electrical performance.

  • Compactness: Space-saving rectangular design for panel integration.

  • Flexibility: Available with various termination options (screw, solder, PCB).

  • Standardization: Interchangeable across manufacturers, simplifying logistics.

 

Conclusion

The C13 Insert Connector is a globally recognized and trusted solution for power inlet applications, designed to deliver safe and efficient electrical connectivity in Class I appliances. With standardized ratings of 10 A, 250 VAC, durable thermoplastic housing, and robust brass contacts, it balances compactness, reliability, and safety. Its widespread adoption across IT, industrial, and consumer electronics sectors underlines its role as the de facto connector for modern electrical systems.

By adhering to IEC 60320 standards and maintaining global compliance with UL, CSA, VDE, ENEC, and other certifications, the C13 ensures interoperability across international markets. Its proven design, broad compatibility, and flexibility make it one of the most important components in today’s global power distribution ecosystem.

 

Check out Our Other Product: C5 Insert Connector

Related products