The Right Connection
Fitted as standard
The input connectors – commonly referred to as ‘power plugs’ – fitted to Power Distribution Units usually include IEC C14 and C20 classifications.
The International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) is the governing body that determines the established international standards for electrical connections. This is achieved through ‘the global consensus and distilled wisdom of many thousand technical experts who are delegated by their countries to participate in the IEC’, as it says on the IEC’s ‘understanding standards‘ page.
IEC C13 and C14 input connectors are frequently used to link electronic devices to AC power. The odd numbers represent female connectors or sockets, and even numbers are the corresponding male connector or plug. The numbered connectors have specific conductor counts, current capacities, and maximum temperature ratings.
 IEC C14 An IEC C14 connector on a PDU will have three conductors and a 10-ampere current rating (10 Amps). |
 IEC C20 An IEC C20 type connector has three conductors and a rated current of 16 amperes (16 Amps). |
PDU devices often have multiple C14 input connectors for C13 sockets. Units inside data centres frequently feature C20 input plugs for PDUs with higher current flow demands. The C20 is visually differentiated by its square conductor holes.
Buying a PDU with a UK Plug
A power supply system can include a PDU with a UK plug. A UK input connector should follow the British Standard of BS 1363. This standard of safety governs the single-phase, electrical power plugs and sockets found in the UK. The standard PDU UK plug is rated for a max current of 13 amps, which will fit into a BS 1363 type of socket.
We have compiled a list of the Top 10 Best PDUs we have to offer.
Using 16 or 32 Amp Commando Connections
Power distribution units in demanding environments often use 16 or 32 amp commando connections. These input connectors are based on the British standard and originated with the MK Commando brand. A variety of PDU models are available which have compatibility with these commando plug types.
 16 Amp Commando A Commando input type rated for 16 amps can be used with a PDU that distributes power to meet many industrial needs. |
 32 Amp Commando A Commando input type rated for is better suited with a PDU that distributes power in professional IT environments. |
If you’re looking to have a minimal number of PDUs, say for a server with limited available space, we have some great Datacel PDUs that come with mixed sockets. Perfect for combining equipment with differing power input types on the same power distributor.
Datacel 10 Way Mixed Socket PDU
8x IEC C13, 2x IEC C19 Sockets
Power Distribution Without Power Limitations
Hybrid PDUs are becoming a more popular choice for installation into a rack, due to the fact that they allow the user to power a variety of equipment using both IEC C19 sockets and IEC C13 sockets.
Features:
|
|
Buy Datacel 10 Way Mixed Socket PDU
Datacel 12 Way Mixed Socket PDU
6x UK Plug, 6x IEC C13 Sockets
Power Distribution Without Power Limitations
These Mixed Socket PDU’s provide a space saving solution where both IEC C13 UK Sockets are required. All PDU’s are provided with a 3 metre inport lead and feature a neon switch with protective cover.
Features:
|
|
Buy Datacel 12 Way Mixed Socket PDU
Datacel 14 Way Mixed Socket PDU
10x UK Plug, 4x IEC C13 Sockets
Power Distribution Without Power Limitations
These Mixed Socket PDUs provide a space saving solution where both IEC C13 UK Sockets are required. All PDUs are provided with a 3 metre inport lead and Neon switch with protective cover.
Features:
|
|
Buy Datacel 14 Way Mixed Socket PDU
Datacel 18 Way Mixed Socket PDU
6x UK Plug, 12x IEC C13 Sockets
Power Distribution Without Power Limitations
These Mixed Socket PDUs provide a space saving solution where both IEC C13 UK Sockets are required. All PDUs are provided with a 3 metre inport lead and Neon switch with protective cover.
Features:
|
|
Buy Datacel 18 Way Mixed Socket PDU
Datacel 24 Way Basic Mixed Socket PDU
20x IEC C13 Sockets, 4x IEC C19 Sockets
Power Distribution Without Power Limitations
This Rack PDU is equipped with 20x IEC-320-C13 outlets, and 4x IEC-320-C19 outlets, as well as a 10-foot (3.05-meter) power cord.
Features:
|
|
Buy Datacel 24 Way Basic Mixed Socket PDU
Related Products Available from Comms Express:
APC PDUs | Austin Hughes PDUs | Aten PDUs | Datacel PDUs | Eaton PDUs | Lindy Power Solutions | Tripp Lite PDUs | Vertiv PDUs
If you require any further information on these or any other products that we stock here at Comms Express, please do not hesitate to contact our team who will be only too happy to help.
Until next time…