Plug In Like a Pro: 5 Power Cords Your Data Center Needs Now

Power cords are essential to the efficient operation of data centers. These accessories provide a consistent electricity supply to critical data center equipment, including power distribution units (PDUs), computers, servers, and routers.  

But using high-quality power cords doesn’t just keep your data center appliances running. It’s also a proactive measure against electrical malfunctions common with substandard cables, such as electric shocks and equipment breakdowns.  

Fortunately, power cords come in diverse shapes and sizes. A bit of research is all you need to hunker down on a cable designed to support the various data center power flow elements.  

We’ve done the legwork for you and rounded up the top five power cords every data center needs.  

 1. PDU Power Cords

Power distribution units are a critical electrical component in data centers. These devices come fitted with several outputs for supplying electricity to other hardware, such as computers and networking equipment.  

When searching for the best power extender for data centers, many are often torn between PDUs and power strips. The reality is that each option can deliver under specific circumstances.  

However, PDUs are better suited for industrial applications since they manage power supply better than power strips. While your data center may still require power strips for lighter-duty connections like laptop charging, PDUs are indispensable installations.  

That said, the efficiency of PDUs depends on the connected power cables. Insist on PDU cords rated 12 American Wire Gauge (AWG) or less, as these allow you to distribute electricity to different equipment without risking current overload.  

You’ll also realize that a single PDU can utilize several power cords. As a safety precaution, ensure all connected cables have a similar current draw. 

2. Heavy-Duty Power Cords

Several factors can designate an extension cord as heavy-duty, including gauge rating and maximum amp draw.  

As hinted, the best data center power cords should be rated at most 12 AWG. Gauge refers to the thickness of individual conductors in an extension cord.  

Smaller AWG values correspond with larger conductor thicknesses, and vice versa. More importantly, smaller-gauge (thicker) extension cords handle current more effectively than higher-gauge cables.  

Besides gauge ratings, it’s important to compute the total current draw of all the hardware in your data center and pick a compatible extension cord. A 20-amp extension cord would be an excellent starting point, although 15-amp cables can still power multiple data center appliances.  

3. Kettle Cords

Kettle cords, also known as mains leads, are power cords used to connect the mains electricity supply to nearby computing devices. The cord derives its name from the fact that it’s the same cable used to connect electric kettles.  

As data centers are synonymous with computers, investing in a high-quality mains lead is paramount.  

One special type of kettle cord is the IEC C13; the male connection plugs into IEC C14 female receptors. The initial IEC stands for the International Electrotechnical Commission, the agency that standardizes these electrical attachments.  

A C13 to C14 power cord is rated for up to 10 amps, making it suitable for desktops with powerful processors. Comparatively, a C19 to C20 power cord has a higher power draw of 16 amps and is best suited for servers.

4. Twist-Lock Power Cords

Twist-lock power cords are designed with a revolutionary plug-locking mechanism that allows them to remain firmly in place. All you need to do is plug the cable in and twist it around 35 degrees anticlockwise to secure it.  

Locking-plug power cords prevent accidental disconnections, ensuring uninterrupted power supply to your data center equipment.  

One way to shop for the best twist-lock power cords is to prioritize those rated by the National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA). Be sure to check out a NEMA locking plug chart on an electrical store’s website to hone in on the best twist plug for your data center.  

You may also want to consider switched locking plug cords. An extension cord with switch gives you a higher control over your data center’s energy consumption by regulating power supply to specific equipment.    

5. Three-Prong Power Cords

Three-prong power cords have emerged as a preferable choice for data centers over traditional two-prong cables due to the former’s superior safety.  

Three-prong cords have three pins, with the additional pin connected to a grounding wire that safely channels excess current to the ground. This helps to minimize shocks and electrocution caused by unpredictable current spikes.  

While experts typically discourage longer power cords due to increased resistance and reduced voltage, lower-gauge, three-prong bulk power cords are an exception for their enhanced safety.  

The NEMA 5-15P is noteworthy when discussing three-prong extension cords for data centers. This cable features two flat wires for live and neutral connections, plus a round grounding pin. The number ’15’ indicates its maximum amp rating while ‘P’ stands for plug.  

Frequently Asked Questions 

1. How significant are power cords for data centers?

Power cords are pivotal to the efficient operation of data centers. They enhance uninterrupted operation of critical hardware, including servers and networking equipment. 

2. What is the best power cord for data centers?

Data center power cords come in many shapes and forms. Ultimately, the right cable depends on the optimal gauge, length, amperage, and voltage required to run the connected appliances. 

3. What's the best voltage for data centers?

Most data centers utilize AC power cords with an average voltage range of 100 - 250V. However, the ideal voltage rating would depend on the power draw of the connected hardware. 

4. What letter designations should I look for when shopping for data center power cords?

Power cord jackets may feature various letter codes depending on the cables’ voltage rating and the environmental hazards it can withstand. 

Data center power cords labeled SJ can run on 300 volts while S-labeled cords can support up to 600 volts. T stands for thermoplastic, suggesting the wire's resistance to temperature fluctuations. Finally, O and W represent Oil-resistance and weather-resistance, respectively.