Locking Systems
Compare P-Lock, WS-Lock and D-Lock and identify whether the PDU side, equipment side or both connections need positive retention.
- Locking point and release principle
- PDU and equipment requirements
- Current MK Cable locking ranges
Technical Resources
Technical Resources
Practical guidance for selecting power cords
Use these resources to identify the correct connection, compare cable constructions, understand product documentation and prepare a clear custom-cord request.
Start here Match the complete power path: PDU outlet → cord plug → cord connector → equipment inlet. Then confirm the current, voltage, cable, temperature and approval requirements for the exact product.
Choose a technical topic
Each section focuses on a different part of product selection. Exact ratings, approvals and documentation remain specific to the selected SKU and destination market.
IEC Connector Guide
Understand the common IEC 60320 plug, connector, outlet and inlet combinations used for IT, data-center and industrial equipment.
- C13/C14 and C15/C16 interfaces
- C19/C20 and C21/C22 interfaces
- Correct source-to-equipment direction
Cable Types & Ratings
Compare standard PVC, enhanced-temperature PVC, rubber and low-smoke cable constructions for different operating environments.
- H05VV-F and H05V2V2-F
- H05RR-F and H05Z1Z1-F
- Conductor size, current and temperature
International Plug Guide
Select a country-specific mains plug together with the correct IEC connector, electrical rating and product-specific market approval.
- National plug types and standards
- Country-specific electrical ratings
- Approval scope by product and market
Certificates & Drawings
Understand the difference between safety approvals, conformity markings and material-compliance information, and where to find product files.
- Product-specific safety approvals
- CE marking and RoHS/REACH compliance
- Drawings and related technical files
Custom Power Cord Guide
Prepare the information needed for a project quotation when a standard stocked product does not match the required configuration.
- Plug and connector combination
- Cable, length, color and quantity
- Approvals, destination and delivery date
Technical guides support product selection Final suitability depends on the complete cord construction, mating equipment, operating conditions and applicable approval documentation. Confirm the exact SKU before ordering for a regulated or critical application.
Not sure which cord fits your application?
Send us the PDU or power source, equipment inlet, required rating, length, color, quantity and destination market.
List of articles
IEC Connector Guide
IEC 60320 connectors and compatibility
Choose the correct connector for each power connection
IEC 60320 names identify the plug, connector, outlet and equipment inlet. First choose the correct connection. Then check the current, voltage, cable type, temperature rating and approvals for the exact cord.
Quick rule Follow the direction of power: PDU outlet → cord plug → cord connector → equipment inlet. For example, a standard server cord is called C14 to C13, not C13 to C14.
Know the four parts of the connection
An IEC connection can be built into a PDU or equipment, or fitted to a cord. The correct names help you order the right product.
PDU outlet
C13 or C19 Cord plug
C14 or C20 Cord connector
C13, C15, C19 or C21 Equipment inlet
C14, C16, C20 or C22
C13 or C19 Cord plug
C14 or C20 Cord connector
C13, C15, C19 or C21 Equipment inlet
C14, C16, C20 or C22
Example: a C14 to C13 cord has a C14 plug at the power-source end and a C13 connector at the equipment end.
Common IEC connector pairs
These common IEC 60320 pairs are used for servers, PDUs, industrial equipment and high-temperature equipment. The values below apply to the IEC interface. The complete cord may have a lower rating.
| Female cord connector | Matching male inlet / plug | IEC rating | Max. pin temperature | Common use |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
C13Cord connector
|
C14Inlet / plug
|
10 A / 250 V AC | 70 °C | Servers, switches, monitors, computers and network equipment |
|
C15High-temperature connector
|
C16High-temperature inlet
|
10 A / 250 V AC | 120 °C | Equipment that needs a high-temperature connection |
|
C19Cord connector
|
C20Inlet / plug
|
16 A / 250 V AC | 70 °C | High-power servers, storage systems, UPS systems and industrial equipment |
|
C21Very high-temperature connector
|
C22Very high-temperature inlet
|
16 A / 250 V AC | 155 °C | High-current equipment that needs a very high-temperature connection |
These simple front views are for identification only. They are not to scale. Check the product drawing for exact dimensions.
The pin temperature is an IEC value for the connector. It is not the ambient temperature or the operating temperature of the complete cord.
Choose the cord by both connection ends
First check the PDU or power outlet. Then check the inlet on the equipment. These are the most common MK Cable connections.
Standard server connection
C14 to C13
Used between a C13 PDU outlet and equipment with a C14 inlet.
Source: C13 outlet → C14 plug
Equipment: C13 connector → C14 inlet
Options: Standard PVC, LSZH, colours and locking variants
Higher-power connection
C20 to C19
Used between a C19 PDU outlet and equipment with a C20 inlet. Suitable for higher current.
Source: C19 outlet → C20 plug
Equipment: C19 connector → C20 inlet
Options: Multiple lengths, colours and P-Lock variants
Mixed IEC connections
C20 to C13 or C14 to C19
These cords connect two different IEC connector families. The larger connector does not set the rating of the complete cord.
C20 to C13: C19 PDU outlet to C14 equipment inlet
C14 to C19: C13 PDU outlet to C20 equipment inlet
Important: Check the rating of the exact product before use
High-temperature equipment
C15 or C21 equipment connectors
Use the correct high-temperature connector when the equipment has a C16 or C22 inlet. The cable must also be suitable for the required temperature.
C15: Mates with a C16 equipment inlet
C21: Mates with a C22 equipment inlet
Check: Temperature limits for the connector, cable and approvals
*These are maximum IEC values for the connector pair. They do not apply to every cord in the category. Check the exact product page and documents.
The lowest-rated part sets the rating of the complete cord The plug, connector, cable, wire size, terminals, approvals and working conditions all matter. A cord with a 16 A connector is not always a 16 A cord. Another part may have a lower rating.
Five checks before ordering
Check both connection ends
Identify the PDU outlet and the equipment inlet. Do not choose a cord by only one end.
Check current and voltage
Check the rating of the exact product. Also check the equipment, power system and local installation rules.
Check cable and temperature
Choose the correct wire size and cable type: standard PVC, high-temperature PVC, rubber or LSZH.
Decide if you need a locking cord
For important equipment, decide if the PDU end, equipment end or both ends must be locked.
Compare locking systemsCheck the exact product
Check its dimensions, ratings, approvals and documents. Requirements can be different for each product and country.
IEC connector questions
What is the difference between C13 and C14?
C13 is the female cord connector or outlet. C14 is the matching male inlet or cord plug. On a standard PDU-to-server cord, the C14 plug connects to the PDU and the C13 connector connects to the server.
Can a C13 connector be used with a C16 inlet?
No. A C16 high-temperature inlet needs a C15 connector. Choose a C15 cord with the correct cable type and approvals for the required temperature.
Does a C20 to C13 cord provide a 16 A connection?
Not always. The part with the lowest rating sets the rating of the complete cord. Check the current rating of the exact C20 to C13 product before use.
Are C13/C14 and C19/C20 interchangeable?
No. They have different shapes and current ratings. Use the correct connector and inlet pair for the equipment and power source.
Does IEC 60320 compatibility mean the cord is approved worldwide?
No. IEC 60320 defines the connector interface. The complete cord, cable, mains plug and local approvals must still be checked. Always check the documents for the exact product and country.
Need help identifying an IEC connection?
Send us a photo or model number of the PDU outlet and equipment inlet. Also include the required current, voltage, length, colour, quantity and destination country.
Locking Systems
Locking power cords & compatibility
Secure the PDU side, the equipment side or both
MK Cable locking power cords reduce the risk of accidental disconnection in data centres, server rooms and other critical installations. Select the system according to the connection that needs to be secured.
Quick ruleP-Lock secures the PDU side, WS-Lock secures the equipment side, and D-Lock can secure both ends. P-Lock provides positive retention only in a compatible locking PDU outlet.
Choose the correct locking system
Start with the connection that must be retained. The three systems are electrically based on standard IEC interfaces, but their locking functions are not identical.
P-Lock
A locking plug secures the cord at the power source when used with a compatible P-Lock PDU outlet.
- Positive retention at the PDU
- Standard connector at the equipment
- C14 and C20 plug options
WS-Lock
A C13 WS-Lock connector secures to a standard C14 equipment inlet. No special or modified device inlet is required.
- Positive retention at the device
- Works with a standard C14 inlet
- Standard C14 plug at the PDU
D-Lock
D-Lock combines equipment-side retention with a C14 P-Lock plug for compatible PDU outlets.
- Equipment side locks to a standard C14 inlet
- PDU side locks in a compatible outlet
- Both ends secured with the correct PDU
Compare the systems
Use this table for a quick compatibility check before choosing a product family.
| System | Connection secured | PDU requirement | Equipment requirement |
|---|---|---|---|
| P-Lock | PDU side | Compatible P-Lock outlet required for positive retention | Standard C14, C16 or C20 inlet, depending on the selected cord |
| WS-Lock | Equipment side | Standard C13 outlet; PDU-side connection remains non-locking | Standard C14 inlet; no special inlet required |
| D-Lock | Equipment side and, with the correct PDU, the PDU side | Compatible P-Lock outlet required for dual locking | Standard C14 inlet |
A P-Lock plug remains electrically compatible with the corresponding standard IEC outlet, but the positive locking function will not engage unless the outlet supports the locking system.
MK Cable locking power cord ranges
Choose the connector combination required by your equipment. Current lengths, colours, stock and technical documents are shown on each product page.
PDU side
C14 to C13 P-Lock
For servers, switches and network equipment with a C14 inlet where the PDU-side connection must be secured.
PDU end: C14 P-Lock plug
Device end: Standard C13 connector
Options: Multiple lengths in black, blue and red
Equipment side
C14 to C13 WS-Lock
For standard C14 equipment inlets where the server or device connection is the main retention point.
PDU end: Standard C14 plug
Device end: C13 WS-Lock connector
Options: Multiple lengths in black, blue and red
PDU side
C20 to C19 P-Lock
For higher-power servers, storage systems, UPS equipment and network hardware with a C20 inlet.
PDU end: C20 P-Lock plug
Device end: Standard C19 connector
Options: Multiple lengths in black, blue and red
PDU side
C14 to C15 P-Lock
For equipment fitted with a C16 hot-condition inlet where the PDU-side connection must be secured.
PDU end: C14 P-Lock plug
Device end: C15 connector for a C16 inlet
Options: Multiple lengths in black, blue and red
Both ends*
C14 to C13 D-Lock
For critical installations where the equipment connection and the power-source connection must both be retained.
PDU end: C14 P-Lock plug; compatible locking outlet required
Device end: C13 S-Lock connector for a standard C14 inlet
Important: With a standard PDU outlet, only the equipment end locks
Check the exact PDU model PDU brand alone is not enough to confirm P-Lock compatibility. Verify the exact outlet type and model before specifying a locking connection. Contact MK Cable if you need help checking a particular installation.
Compatibility questions
Will P-Lock lock in any standard C13 or C19 PDU outlet?
No. The plug will mate electrically with the corresponding standard IEC outlet, but its positive locking function engages only in a compatible locking outlet.
Does WS-Lock require a special equipment inlet?
No. The C13 WS-Lock connector is designed to secure to a standard IEC C14 equipment inlet. The PDU-side connection remains a standard, non-locking C14 plug.
Does D-Lock always lock at both ends?
Only when the C14 P-Lock plug is connected to a compatible PDU outlet. The C13 S-Lock equipment connector secures to a standard C14 inlet. With a standard PDU outlet, the cord connects electrically but only the equipment end is positively retained.
What do “plug”, “connector”, “outlet” and “inlet” mean?
MK Cable uses the IEC connection names in the direction of power flow:
PDU outlet Cord plug Cord connector Equipment inlet
Need help selecting a locking cord?
Send us the PDU model, equipment inlet, required length, colour and quantity.
How to buy
Ordering & delivery
Simple purchasing for stock and custom requirements
Browse current stock online, order standard products directly, or ask us to quote volume requirements, special lengths, colours and other custom specifications.
Fast routeOrder stock products online. For volume, project or custom requirements, send us the specification, quantity and requested delivery date.
From product selection to delivery
Choose the route that matches your requirement. Our team can help confirm connector compatibility, availability and the most suitable delivery option.
Browse the product range
Use the online catalogue to find the correct cord and check the current product information.
- Filter by connector, length, colour and cable type
- Check current stock availability
- Open technical documents on the product page
Order online or request a quote
Standard stock items can be added to the cart. Larger, recurring or project requirements are quoted individually.
- Order available stock through the online shop
- Request project and volume pricing
- Confirm any special commercial requirements
Shipping & delivery
Orders are dispatched from our warehouse in the Czech Republic using the most suitable parcel, pallet or express service.
- Stock orders normally ship the same or next business day
- Delivery available across Europe and beyond
- Tracking and delivery information provided after dispatch
Custom production
We can source or manufacture power cords for requirements that are not covered by the standard stock range.
- Send the connector, cable, length and colour specification
- Include quantity and required delivery date
- Receive confirmation of MOQ, price and production lead time
Payment options
Available payment methods depend on the order route, destination and approved commercial terms.
- Credit card or bank transfer for standard orders
- Payment terms for approved business customers
- Currency and delivery terms confirmed in the quotation
Technical assistance
If you are unsure which cord you need, send us the available equipment or PDU information.
- Connector and inlet compatibility checks
- Cable type, temperature and approval guidance
- Support with drawings and product documentation
Information that helps us quote quickly Please include the connector combination, cable type, length, colour, required approvals, quantity and requested delivery date. For locking cords, also include the exact PDU or equipment model where possible.
Need a quotation or product recommendation?
Send us your specification and we will confirm availability, pricing and delivery.
Quality
Quality, safety & compliance
Verified products for reliable power connections
MK Cable focuses on correct specifications, dependable materials, electrical testing and product-specific approvals for data centres, IT infrastructure and industrial applications.
Our approachWe match each cord to its application and market requirements, then support it with the relevant technical and compliance documentation.
How we control quality
Quality requirements vary by product, cable construction and destination market. We therefore verify the exact specification rather than relying on a general product-family claim.
Approvals & standards
Products are selected and documented according to the standards and approvals required for their intended market.
- IEC 60320 connector and inlet compatibility
- VDE, UL, CSA or other product approvals where applicable
- RoHS, REACH and CE documentation where required
Electrical inspection
Electrical and connection checks help identify manufacturing faults before products enter service.
- Hi-Pot and insulation testing
- Open, short and pinout verification
- Grounding and continuity checks where applicable
Materials & durability
Conductor, jacket and connector construction are specified for safe, stable performance in the intended environment.
- Copper conductors sized for the stated rating
- PVC, high-temperature and LSZH cable options
- Strain relief and locking designs for secure connections
Documentation and application support
The exact documents available depend on the individual product. Contact us if a certificate, drawing or declaration is required before approval or purchase.
Documents
Technical & compliance files
We can confirm the documentation available for a selected stock item or proposed custom product.
- Approval certificates and declarations
- Technical drawings and product data
- Material and environmental compliance documents
Selection
Specification review
We can help verify that the selected cord matches the electrical connection and operating environment.
- Connector, inlet and PDU compatibility
- Current rating, cable type and temperature requirement
- Market approvals, colour, length and custom options
Always check the exact product Approval coverage and technical ratings can differ between connector combinations, cable types, lengths and markets. Use the documentation for the specific SKU rather than a general category description.
Need a certificate or technical confirmation?
Send us the product code and required document, or describe the application you need to verify.
Listing controls
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