--- title: The International Electrotechnical Commission—Setting the Standards description: Read how the new International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) was born from the International Electrical Congress, and how accessory power mirrors LEGOs for plug-and-play AC power. image: https://blog.interpower.com/hubfs/Interpower_November2017/images/InfoPower%20Blog/International-Electrotechnical-Commission.jpg --- [![Interpower Facebook](https://blog.interpower.com/hubfs/Interpower_March2018/Images/facebook-button-black.png "Interpower Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/interpowercorporation) [![Interpower LinkedIn](https://blog.interpower.com/hubfs/Interpower_March2018/Images/linkedin-button-black.png "Interpower LinkedIn")](https://www.linkedin.com/company/interpower-corporation) [![Interpower Twitter](https://blog.interpower.com/hubfs/Interpower_March2018/Images/twitter-button-black.png "Interpower Twitter")](https://twitter.com/interpowergroup) **PHONE:U.S.** [(641) 673-5000 |](tel:6416735000) **Toll Free:** [(800) 662-2290 |](tel:8006622290) **UK** [+44 (0)1908 295300 |](tel:+4401908295300) **Freephone:**[00800 5566 5566](tel:0080055665566) [![Interpower](https://blog.interpower.com/hubfs/Interpower_March2018/Images/IC-white-site-heading.png "Interpower") ![Interpower](https://blog.interpower.com/hubfs/Interpower_March2018/Images/mobile-logo.png "Interpower")](http://interpower.com) - [Home](http://www.interpower.com/ic/) - Products - - [North American &](http://www.interpower.com/ic/international-power-cords.html) - [-North American & International Power Cord Accessories](http://www.interpower.com/ic/power-cord-accessories.html) - [--Ferrites](http://www.interpower.com/cgi-bin/ic.cgi/paplist2.p?w_group=ferrites&w_title=Ferrites) - [--Ferrules](http://www.interpower.com/ic/ferrules.html) - [-North American Power Cords](http://www.interpower.com/ic/NAcords.html) - [-International Power Cords](http://www.interpower.com/ic/international-power-cords.html) - [Plugs, Sockets, & Connectors](http://www.interpower.com/ic/plugs-sockets-connectors.html) - [-North American](http://www.interpower.com/ic/NA-NEMAConfigurations.html) - [-Plug & Socket Accessories](http://www.interpower.com/ic/Plug-Socket-Accessories.html) - [High Power Pin & Sleeve Devices](http://www.interpower.com/ic/high-power-pin-sleeve.html) - - [Cable—North American & International](http://www.interpower.com/ic/cable.html) - [-Cable Accessories](http://www.interpower.com/ic/cable-accessories.html) - [Strain Reliefs](http://www.interpower.com/ic/strain-reliefs.html) - [Terminal Blocks](http://www.interpower.com/ic/terminalblocks.html) - [IEC 60320 Products](http://www.interpower.com/ic/IEC60320.html) - [Power Entry Modules](http://www.interpower.com/ic/modules.html) - [-Power Entry Module Accessories](http://www.interpower.com/ic/modules-accessories.html) - [Accessory Power](http://www.interpower.com/ic/aps.html) - [Switches & Voltage Selectors](http://www.interpower.com/ic/switches.html) - [Circuit Breakers](http://www.interpower.com/ic/circuit-breakers.html) - [Fuses & Fuse Holders](http://www.interpower.com/ic/fuses.html) - - [-North American 1/4 X 1 1/4 Fuses](http://www.interpower.com/ic/fuses-NA.html) - [-International 5 X 20mm Fuses](http://www.interpower.com/ic/fuses-intl.html) - [Socket Strips](http://www.interpower.com/ic/socketstrips.html) - [Hospital-Grade Products](http://www.interpower.com/ic/hospitalgrade.html) - [Testing & Safety Equipment](http://www.interpower.com/ic/testing.html) - [International Power Source](http://www.interpower.com/ic/ips.html) - [Value-Added Services](http://www.interpower.com/ic/valueadded.html) - [Labeling & Packaging Services](http://www.interpower.com/ic/customlabeling.html) - [Accessories](http://www.interpower.com/ic/accessories.html) - [Sale Items](http://www.interpower.com/cgi-bin/ic.cgi/excess.p) - Product Design Library - [Designing for Export](http://www.interpower.com/ic/designers/designing-for-export.html) - [Guides, Charts, and Brochures](http://www.interpower.com/ic/designers/designing-for-export/guides-and-charts.html) - [National Power Mains](http://www.interpower.com/ic/designers/designing-for-export/national-power-mains.html) - [The Global Market Place](http://www.interpower.com/ic/designers/designing-for-export/The-Global-Marketplace.html) - [Why observe international product safety requirements?](http://www.interpower.com/ic/designers/designing-for-export/Why-Observe-International-Product-Safety-Requirements.html) - [Conforming to Local Safety Requirements](http://www.interpower.com/ic/designers/designing-for-export/Conforming-to-Local-Safety-Requirements.html) - [What standards must electronic or electrical equipment meet?](http://www.interpower.com/ic/designers/designing-for-export/What-Standards-Must-Electronic-or-Electrical-Equipment-Meet.html) - [European & International Standards Writing Agencies](http://www.interpower.com/ic/designers/designing-for-export/european-international-standards-writing-agencies.html) - [What is the CE Marking?](http://www.interpower.com/ic/designers/designing-for-export/What-is-the-CE-Marking.html) - [What is the ENEC Mark?](http://www.interpower.com/ic/designers/designing-for-export/What-is-the-ENEC-Mark.html) - [Who enforces international safety standards?](http://www.interpower.com/ic/designers/designing-for-export/who-enforces-international-safety-standards.html) - [International Safety Compliance is a Corporate-wide Effort](http://www.interpower.com/ic/designers/designing-for-export/international-safety-compliance-is-a-corporate-wide-effort.html) - [Webcasts](http://www.interpower.com/ic/designers/Webcasts.html) - [IEC 60320 Overview](http://www.interpower.com/ic/designers/webcasts/iec60320-overview.html) - [How Interpower Delights Customers...FAST](http://www.interpower.com/ic/designers/webcasts/how-interpower-delights-customers-fast.html) - [International Power Found in the Heartland](http://www.interpower.com/ic/designers/webcasts/interpower-on-ien-now-international-power-in-the-heartland.html) - [Interpower Talks Unique Device Identification System](http://www.interpower.com/ic/designers/webcasts/interpower-talks-unique-device-identification-system.html) - [How to Select Power Cords and Cord Sets](http://www.interpower.com/ic/designers/webcasts/how-to-select-power-cords-and-cord-sets.html) - [Interpower International Power Cable Explained](http://www.interpower.com/ic/designers/webcasts/interpower-international-power-cable-explained.html) - [Commonly Asked Questions](http://www.interpower.com/ic/designers/webcasts/commonly-asked-questions.html) - [International Power Source Benefits](http://www.interpower.com/ic/designers/webcasts/International-Power-Source-Benefits.html) - [Selecting the Correct Cable for Worldwide Markets](http://www.interpower.com/ic/designers/webcasts/selecting-the-correct-cable.html) - [Accessory Power](http://www.interpower.com/ic/designers/webcasts/accessory-power-for-worldwide-markets.html) - [Quality Topics](http://www.interpower.com/ic/designers/Quality-Topics.html) - [60320 Withdrawal Force](http://www.interpower.com/ic/designers/QualityTopics/60320-Withdrawal-Force.html) - [Abrupt Pull Test](http://www.interpower.com/ic/designers/QualityTopics/Abrupt-Pull-Test.html) - [Hospital-Grade Power Cord](http://www.interpower.com/ic/designers/QualityTopics/HospitalGrade-Powercord.html) - [Cord Flex Tester](http://www.interpower.com/ic/designers/QualityTopics/Cord-Flex-Tester.html) - [Cord Anchorage Pull Test](http://www.interpower.com/ic/designers/QualityTopics/Cord-Anchorage-Pull-Test.html) - [Cord Anchorage Torque Twist Test](http://www.interpower.com/ic/designers/QualityTopics/Cord-Anchorage-Torque-Twist-Test-Video.html) - [Crimp Cross Section and Pull Test](http://www.interpower.com/ic/designers/QualityTopics/Crimp-Cross-Section-and-Pull-Test.html) - [Insertion-withdrawal Testing](http://www.interpower.com/ic/designers/QualityTopics/InsertionWithdrawal-Testing.html) - [Temperature Rise Testing](http://www.interpower.com/ic/designers/QualityTopics/Temperature-Rise-Testing.html) - [Vertical Flame Test](http://www.interpower.com/ic/designers/QualityTopics/Vertical-Flame-Test.html) - [In-depth Product Line Information](http://www.interpower.com/ic/designers/Indepth-Product-Line-Information.html) - [Power Cords and Cord Sets](http://www.interpower.com/ic/designers/in-depth-product-line-information/more-information-on-power-cords-and-cord-sets.html) - [Hospital-Grade Products](http://www.interpower.com/ic/designers/in-depth-product-line-information/More-info-on-HospitalGrade-Products.html) - [Heat Shrink Tubing](http://www.interpower.com/ic/designers/in-depth-product-line-information/more-information-on-heat-shrink-tubing.html) - [Plugs and Sockets](http://www.interpower.com/ic/designers/in-depth-product-line-information/More-info-on-Plugs-and-Sockets.html) - [High Power Pin & Sleeve Devices](http://www.interpower.com/ic/designers/in-depth-product-line-information/More-Information-on-High-Power-Pin-and-Sleeve-Devices.html) - [Connector Locks](http://www.interpower.com/ic/designers/in-depth-product-line-information/More-information-on-Connector-Locks.html) - [Cable](http://www.interpower.com/ic/designers/in-depth-product-line-information/More-Information-on-Cable.html) - [Odd Sizes in AWG Flexible Cable](http://www.interpower.com/ic/designers/in-depth-product-line-information/odd-sizes-in-AWG-flexible-cable.html) - [Strain Reliefs](http://www.interpower.com/ic/designers/in-depth-product-line-information/More-Information-on-Strain-Reliefs-Cable-Glands.html) - [Terminal Blocks](http://www.interpower.com/ic/designers/in-depth-product-line-information/More-Information-on-Terminal-Blocks.html) - [Testing](http://www.interpower.com/ic/designers/in-depth-product-line-information/more-information-on-testing.html) - [IEC 60320 Products](http://www.interpower.com/ic/designers/in-depth-product-line-information/more-information-on-iec-60320-products.html) - [IEC 60320 C13 and C19 Connectors](http://www.interpower.com/ic/designers/in-depth-product-line-information/More-Information-on-IEC-60320-C13-Connectors.html) - [Power Entry Modules](http://www.interpower.com/ic/designers/in-depth-product-line-information/More-Information-on-Power-Entry-Modules.html) - [Accessory Power](http://www.interpower.com/ic/designers/in-depth-product-line-information/More-Information-Accessory-Power.html) - [Switches & Voltage Selectors](http://www.interpower.com/ic/designers/in-depth-product-line-information/More-Information-on-Switches-and-Voltage-Selectors.html) - [Circuit Breakers](http://www.interpower.com/ic/designers/in-depth-product-line-information/More-Information-on-Circuit-Breakers.html) - [Fuses & Fuse Holders](http://www.interpower.com/ic/designers/in-depth-product-line-information/More-Information-on-Fuses-and-Fuseholders.html) - [Ferrites](http://www.interpower.com/ic/designers/in-depth-product-line-information/more-information-on-ferrites.html) - [Socket Strips](http://www.interpower.com/ic/designers/in-depth-product-line-information/More-Information-on-Socket-Strips.html) - - [Interpower RSS Feeds](http://www.interpower.com/ic/interpower-rss-feeds.html) - [Interpower Connections](http://www.interpower.com/ic/designers/Interpower-Connections.html) - [Featured Product](http://www.interpower.com/ic/designers/featuredproduct.html) - [White Papers](http://www.interpower.com/ic/designers/White-Papers.html) - [Major International Testing Agencies](http://www.interpower.com/ic/designers/Major-International-Testing-Agencies.html) - [Guide to International Standards Publications](http://www.interpower.com/ic/designers/Guide-to-International-Standards-Publications.html) - [Environmental Information](http://www.interpower.com/ic/designers/Environmental-Information.html) - [Glossary of Terms](http://www.interpower.com/ic/designers/Glossary-of-Terms.html) - [Online Interpower Catalog 17](https://indd.adobe.com/view/d2fbc64d-c08d-4d78-a018-3a706613661f) - [News](http://www.interpower.com/ic/news.html) - [Trade Show Schedule](http://www.interpower.com/ic/news/trade-show-schedule.html) - [Press Releases](http://www.interpower.com/ic/news/Press-Releases.html) - [InfoPower](http://www.interpower.com/ic/infopower.html) - [About Us](http://www.interpower.com/ic/aboutus.html) - [Join Our Team](http://www.interpower.com/ic/joinourteam.html) - [Mission Statement](http://www.interpower.com/ic/missionstatement.html) - [History](http://www.interpower.com/ic/history.html) - [ISO 9000](http://www.interpower.com/ic/iso9000.html) - [Corporate Culture](http://www.interpower.com/ic/corporateculture.html) - [Ordering Policies & Procedures](http://www.interpower.com/ic/orderingpolicy.html) - [Privacy Policy](http://www.interpower.com/ic/privacypolicy.html) - [Contact Us](http://www.interpower.com/ic/contactus.html) - [Order Online](https://www.interpower.com/cgi-bin/ic.cgi/myaccount.p) - [Home](http://www.interpower.com/ic/) - [Products](http://www.interpower.com/ic/products.html) - [North American & International Cords](http://www.interpower.com/ic/international-power-cords.html) - [-North American & International Power Cord Accessories](http://www.interpower.com/ic/power-cord-accessories.html) - [--Ferrites](http://www.interpower.com/cgi-bin/ic.cgi/paplist2.p?w_group=ferrites&w_title=Ferrites) - [--Ferrules](http://www.interpower.com/ic/ferrules.html) - [-North American Power Cords & Cord Sets](http://www.interpower.com/ic/NAcords.html) - [-International Power Cords & Cord Sets](http://www.interpower.com/ic/international-power-cords.html) - [Plugs, Sockets, & Connectors](http://www.interpower.com/ic/plugs-sockets-connectors.html) - [-North American NEMA Configurations](http://www.interpower.com/ic/NA-NEMAConfigurations.html) - [-Plug & Socket Accessories](http://www.interpower.com/ic/Plug-Socket-Accessories.html) - [High Power Pin & Sleeve Devices](http://www.interpower.com/ic/high-power-pin-sleeve.html) - [Cable—North American & International](http://www.interpower.com/ic/cable.html) - [-Cable Accessories](http://www.interpower.com/ic/cable-accessories.html) - [Strain Reliefs](http://www.interpower.com/ic/strain-reliefs.html) - [Terminal Blocks](http://www.interpower.com/ic/terminalblocks.html) - [IEC 60320 Products](http://www.interpower.com/ic/IEC60320.html) - [Power Entry Modules](http://www.interpower.com/ic/modules.html) - [-Power Entry Module Accessories](http://www.interpower.com/ic/modules-accessories.html) - [Accessory Power](http://www.interpower.com/ic/aps.html) - [Switches & Voltage Selectors](http://www.interpower.com/ic/switches.html) - [Circuit Breakers](http://www.interpower.com/ic/circuit-breakers.html) - [Fuses & Fuse Holders](http://www.interpower.com/ic/fuses.html) - [-North American 1/4 X 1 1/4 Fuses](http://www.interpower.com/ic/fuses-NA.html) - [-International 5 X 20mm Fuses](http://www.interpower.com/ic/fuses-intl.html) - [Socket Strips](http://www.interpower.com/ic/socketstrips.html) - [Hospital-Grade Products](http://www.interpower.com/ic/hospitalgrade.html) - [Testing & Safety Equipment](http://www.interpower.com/ic/testing.html) - [International Power Source](http://www.interpower.com/ic/ips.html) - [Value-Added Services](http://www.interpower.com/ic/valueadded.html) - [Labeling & Packaging Services](http://www.interpower.com/ic/customlabeling.html) - [Accessories](http://www.interpower.com/ic/accessories.html) - [Sale Items](http://www.interpower.com/cgi-bin/ic.cgi/excess.p) - [Product Design Library](http://www.interpower.com/ic/designers.html) - [Designing for Export](http://www.interpower.com/ic/designers/designing-for-export.html) - [Guides, Charts, and Brochures](http://www.interpower.com/ic/designers/designing-for-export/guides-and-charts.html) - [National Power Mains](http://www.interpower.com/ic/designers/designing-for-export/national-power-mains.html) - [The Global Market Place](http://www.interpower.com/ic/designers/designing-for-export/The-Global-Marketplace.html) - [Why observe international product safety requirements?](http://www.interpower.com/ic/designers/designing-for-export/Why-Observe-International-Product-Safety-Requirements.html) - [Conforming to Local Safety Requirements](http://www.interpower.com/ic/designers/designing-for-export/Conforming-to-Local-Safety-Requirements.html) - [What standards must electronic or electrical equipment meet?](http://www.interpower.com/ic/designers/designing-for-export/What-Standards-Must-Electronic-or-Electrical-Equipment-Meet.html) - [European & International Standards Writing Agencies](http://www.interpower.com/ic/designers/designing-for-export/european-international-standards-writing-agencies.html) - [What is the CE Marking?](http://www.interpower.com/ic/designers/designing-for-export/What-is-the-CE-Marking.html) - [What is the ENEC Mark?](http://www.interpower.com/ic/designers/designing-for-export/What-is-the-ENEC-Mark.html) - [Who enforces international safety standards?](http://www.interpower.com/ic/designers/designing-for-export/who-enforces-international-safety-standards.html) - [International Safety Compliance is a Corporate-wide Effort](http://www.interpower.com/ic/designers/designing-for-export/international-safety-compliance-is-a-corporate-wide-effort.html) - [Webcasts](http://www.interpower.com/ic/designers/Webcasts.html) - [IEC 60320 Overview](http://www.interpower.com/ic/designers/webcasts/iec60320-overview.html) - [How Interpower Delights Customers...FAST](http://www.interpower.com/ic/designers/webcasts/how-interpower-delights-customers-fast.html) - [International Power Found in the Heartland](http://www.interpower.com/ic/designers/webcasts/interpower-on-ien-now-international-power-in-the-heartland.html) - [Interpower Talks Unique Device Identification System](http://www.interpower.com/ic/designers/webcasts/interpower-talks-unique-device-identification-system.html) - [How to Select Power Cords and Cord Sets](http://www.interpower.com/ic/designers/webcasts/how-to-select-power-cords-and-cord-sets.html) - [Interpower International Power Cable Explained](http://www.interpower.com/ic/designers/webcasts/interpower-international-power-cable-explained.html) - [Commonly Asked Questions](http://www.interpower.com/ic/designers/webcasts/commonly-asked-questions.html) - [International Power Source Benefits](http://www.interpower.com/ic/designers/webcasts/International-Power-Source-Benefits.html) - [Selecting the Correct Cable for Worldwide Markets](http://www.interpower.com/ic/designers/webcasts/selecting-the-correct-cable.html) - [Accessory Power](http://www.interpower.com/ic/designers/webcasts/accessory-power-for-worldwide-markets.html) - [Quality Topics](http://www.interpower.com/ic/designers/Quality-Topics.html) - [60320 Withdrawal Force](http://www.interpower.com/ic/designers/QualityTopics/60320-Withdrawal-Force.html) - [Abrupt Pull Test](http://www.interpower.com/ic/designers/QualityTopics/Abrupt-Pull-Test.html) - [Hospital-Grade Power Cord](http://www.interpower.com/ic/designers/QualityTopics/HospitalGrade-Powercord.html) - [Cord Flex Tester](http://www.interpower.com/ic/designers/QualityTopics/Cord-Flex-Tester.html) - [Cord Anchorage Pull Test](http://www.interpower.com/ic/designers/QualityTopics/Cord-Anchorage-Pull-Test.html) - [Cord Anchorage Torque Twist Test](http://www.interpower.com/ic/designers/QualityTopics/Cord-Anchorage-Torque-Twist-Test-Video.html) - [Crimp Cross Section and Pull Test](http://www.interpower.com/ic/designers/QualityTopics/Crimp-Cross-Section-and-Pull-Test.html) - [Insertion-withdrawal Testing](http://www.interpower.com/ic/designers/QualityTopics/InsertionWithdrawal-Testing.html) - [Temperature Rise Testing](http://www.interpower.com/ic/designers/QualityTopics/Temperature-Rise-Testing.html) - [Vertical Flame Test](http://www.interpower.com/ic/designers/QualityTopics/Vertical-Flame-Test.html) - [In-depth Product Line Information](http://www.interpower.com/ic/designers/Indepth-Product-Line-Information.html) - [Power Cords and Cord Sets](http://www.interpower.com/ic/designers/in-depth-product-line-information/more-information-on-power-cords-and-cord-sets.html) - [Hospital-Grade Products](http://www.interpower.com/ic/designers/in-depth-product-line-information/More-info-on-HospitalGrade-Products.html) - [Heat Shrink Tubing](http://www.interpower.com/ic/designers/in-depth-product-line-information/more-information-on-heat-shrink-tubing.html) - [Plugs and Sockets](http://www.interpower.com/ic/designers/in-depth-product-line-information/More-info-on-Plugs-and-Sockets.html) - [High Power Pin & Sleeve Devices](http://www.interpower.com/ic/designers/in-depth-product-line-information/More-Information-on-High-Power-Pin-and-Sleeve-Devices.html) - [Connector Locks](http://www.interpower.com/ic/designers/in-depth-product-line-information/More-information-on-Connector-Locks.html) - [Cable](http://www.interpower.com/ic/designers/in-depth-product-line-information/More-Information-on-Cable.html) - [Odd Sizes in AWG Flexible Cable](http://www.interpower.com/ic/designers/in-depth-product-line-information/odd-sizes-in-AWG-flexible-cable.html) - [Strain Reliefs](http://www.interpower.com/ic/designers/in-depth-product-line-information/More-Information-on-Strain-Reliefs-Cable-Glands.html) - [Terminal Blocks](http://www.interpower.com/ic/designers/in-depth-product-line-information/More-Information-on-Terminal-Blocks.html) - [Testing](http://www.interpower.com/ic/designers/in-depth-product-line-information/more-information-on-testing.html) - [IEC 60320 Products](http://www.interpower.com/ic/designers/in-depth-product-line-information/more-information-on-iec-60320-products.html) - [IEC 60320 C13 and C19 Connectors](http://www.interpower.com/ic/designers/in-depth-product-line-information/More-Information-on-IEC-60320-C13-Connectors.html) - [Power Entry Modules](http://www.interpower.com/ic/designers/in-depth-product-line-information/More-Information-on-Power-Entry-Modules.html) - [Accessory Power](http://www.interpower.com/ic/designers/in-depth-product-line-information/More-Information-Accessory-Power.html) - [Switches & Voltage Selectors](http://www.interpower.com/ic/designers/in-depth-product-line-information/More-Information-on-Switches-and-Voltage-Selectors.html) - [Circuit Breakers](http://www.interpower.com/ic/designers/in-depth-product-line-information/More-Information-on-Circuit-Breakers.html) - [Fuses & Fuse Holders](http://www.interpower.com/ic/designers/in-depth-product-line-information/More-Information-on-Fuses-and-Fuseholders.html) - [Ferrites](http://www.interpower.com/ic/designers/in-depth-product-line-information/more-information-on-ferrites.html) - [Socket Strips](http://www.interpower.com/ic/designers/in-depth-product-line-information/More-Information-on-Socket-Strips.html) - [Interpower RSS Feeds](http://www.interpower.com/ic/interpower-rss-feeds.html) - [Interpower Connections](http://www.interpower.com/ic/designers/Interpower-Connections.html) - [Featured Product](http://www.interpower.com/ic/designers/featuredproduct.html) - [White Papers](http://www.interpower.com/ic/designers/White-Papers.html) - [Major International Testing Agencies](http://www.interpower.com/ic/designers/Major-International-Testing-Agencies.html) - [Guide to International Standards Publications](http://www.interpower.com/ic/designers/Guide-to-International-Standards-Publications.html) - [Environmental Information](http://www.interpower.com/ic/designers/Environmental-Information.html) - [Glossary of Terms](http://www.interpower.com/ic/designers/Glossary-of-Terms.html) - [Online Interpower Catalog 17](https://indd.adobe.com/view/d2fbc64d-c08d-4d78-a018-3a706613661f) - [News](http://www.interpower.com/ic/news.html) - [Trade Show Schedule](http://www.interpower.com/ic/news/trade-show-schedule.html) - [Press Releases](http://www.interpower.com/ic/news/Press-Releases.html) - [InfoPower](http://www.interpower.com/ic/infopower.html) - [About Us](http://www.interpower.com/ic/aboutus.html) - [Join Our Team](http://www.interpower.com/ic/joinourteam.html) - [Mission Statement](http://www.interpower.com/ic/missionstatement.html) - [History](http://www.interpower.com/ic/history.html) - [ISO 9000](http://www.interpower.com/ic/iso9000.html) - [Corporate Culture](http://www.interpower.com/ic/corporateculture.html) - [Ordering Policies & Procedures](http://www.interpower.com/ic/orderingpolicy.html) - [Privacy Policy](http://www.interpower.com/ic/privacypolicy.html) - [Contact Us](http://www.interpower.com/ic/contactus.html) - [Order Online](https://www.interpower.com/cgi-bin/ic.cgi/myaccount.p) # InfoPower # The International Electrotechnical Commission—Setting the Standards Posted on 10/31/25 8:29 AM - [Tweet](https://twitter.com/share) ## ![International-Electrotechnical-Commission](https://blog.interpower.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Interpower_November2017/images/InfoPower%20Blog/International-Electrotechnical-Commission.jpg?width=700&height=368&name=International-Electrotechnical-Commission.jpg) ## What the IEC Does and Doesn’t Do The International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC), né Commission électrotechnique internationale, is an international standards organization headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, which writes and publishes international standards. IEC standards have been adopted by a majority of nations worldwide. Unlike safety agencies such as UL or VDE, the IEC does not test or certify its IEC 60320 electrical components—the safety agencies do that. While the standards are not codified or enforced by the IEC, the agencies representing countries worldwide—such as those listed above—can demand compliance from manufacturers to meet IEC standards as written. In Europe alone, 80% of European and electronic standards are IEC standards. ## Olde School Today’s IEC is historically tethered to its precursor, the International Electrical Congress, which first convened in Paris, France, at the Palais de l'Industrie on the Champs-Élysées in 1881 as part of the International Exposition of Electricity—a week the City of Lights lived up to its name. Upwards of 250 attendees of the electrical congress met, in part, to internationalize electrical nomenclature to facilitate harnessing the world’s latest marvel. As for the Exposition of Electricity, exhibitors and attendees had disembarked ships and trains having arrived from the United States, United Kingdom, Germany, France, Italy, and the Netherlands, among other nations. A flurry of technical papers concerning electrical theory were presented, including proposed standardized definitions of units of electrical measurement such as the ampere, ohm and volt. ## ![testing-icon](https://blog.interpower.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Interpower_November2017/images/landing-page-images/testing-icon.png?width=300&height=300&name=testing-icon.png)Bright Future Terminology for the units of electricity—such as electromotive force (volt) or the number of electrons passing points in a circuit per second (ampere)—was needed regarding safety limits, e.g., such as not running too high or too low of current, and for concepts such as expanding the distribution of mains power in cities, and that units of electrical measurements held the same value for everyone. This was important for electrical scientists and electrical manufacturing that would follow, but also highlighted the “immortality” of the inventors who championed them: Hertz, Gauss, Kelvin, Watt, Ampere, Coulomb, Ohm—the list of names are extensive. Just as today’s culture celebrates its tech giants, the turn of the 20th century celebrated its inventors and engineers whose names were forever attached to units of electrical measurement. The advent of electricity and the subsequent years after is often referred to as the second industrial revolution (1860-1920). In the early 1900s, hundreds if not thousands of assembly lines would start rolling out mass produced sockets, switches, bulbs, copper wire and eventually power lines and power cords at various points along the electrical timeline—unlimited possibilities to light up the dark while making everyday life more convenient. Incredibly, the leaders of this new industrial revolution communicated by telegram, hand-written letters, and read out-of-date newspapers; they toiled over experiments using candlelight and oil lamps. There were no electronic calculators, no e-mails or text messages, no AI, and no online classrooms or YouTube channels. However they imagined their eventual place in history at that time, the legacy they would leave behind would be a safer one than when they had started, one that could slow down or speed up the flow of electricity; it would manipulate switches, resistors and capacitors to begin controlling this awesome new power that would change how people lived in nearly every aspect of their lives. There were subsequent meetings of the former International Electrical Congress: Chicago, 1893; Paris, 1900; St. Louis, 1904. And yet there were numerous electrical conferences and other international congresses held contemporarily as well: Paris, 1882, 1884, 1889; Frankfurt, 1891; Edinburgh 1892; Geneva, 1896; London, 1908; Turin, 1911, and having survived its great earthquake, the rebuilt city of San Francisco was scheduled to host in 1915 but was cancelled due to WWI. However, U.S. electrical luminaries have worked alongside their European peers for two centuries, including Michael Faraday, Nikola Tesla, Henry Carhart, and Thomas Edison among them. ## Today’s IEC Founded in 1906, the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) was an extension of the former International Electrical Congress. The new IEC opened its doors in London, England, and held its first meeting at Hotel Cecil on June 26, 1906, with Alexander Siemens presiding as its chairman. To its credit, the new IEC never looked back, due in part to its European roots. In November of 1993, the European Union was founded and those roots grew even deeper. ## Beyond Bureaucracy—Electrical LEGOs The IEC continues to create and update electrical standards, as do safety agencies. However, anyone who’s read through a standard knows that while they’re informative and essential, they can make for very dry reading—even for bureaucrats. What isn’t dry is the electric accessory power system components in which the IEC wrote its standards for, enabling manufacturers to deploy international electrical designs on any continent by using only one country-specific cord set plugged into the mains power. Once adding an Interpower® accessory power strip with 4-12 outlets to your country-specific cord, now your design is ready for IEC connectors, plug connectors, inlets, outlets (IEC 60320 Appliance and Interconnection Couplers), and jumper cords to build one complete design powering up to 12 machines or devices. Add popular IEC 60320 Sheet F or Sheet J outlets, and one IEC 60320 C14 or C20 inlet, and now you can break out 12 jumper cords from the APS to power multiple devices. Popular jumper cord options begins with either a Sheet E or Sheet I on one end and a C13 or C19 connector on the opposite end to plug into machines. That’s it. While plug and socket patterns are numerous worldwide, IEC 60320 components make it easy to unbox cord sets and plug them in right away without any reconfiguration. ![iec-60320-products-composit-9111](https://blog.interpower.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Interpower_November2017/images/InfoPower%20Blog/iec-60320-products-composit-9111.jpg?width=700&height=428&name=iec-60320-products-composit-9111.jpg) And that’s the current IEC’s legacy: how to build electrical components for exportation and convenience using only one country-specific cord set with one APS, and several IEC 60320 components. Now you’re ready to roll. [![Free Accessory Power White Paper](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/3974304/8eef2490-488f-4716-904f-f89ee9490f31.png)](https://cta-redirect.hubspot.com/cta/redirect/3974304/8eef2490-488f-4716-904f-f89ee9490f31) Topics: [Accessory Power](https://blog.interpower.com/infopower/tag/accessory-power) ## Stay In-The-Know with *InfoPower* The monthly *InfoPower* blogs are created to assist you in designing, building, and maintaining products for worldwide markets by providing you with information on topics relevant to power system components. ### Subscribe to Email Updates ### Recent Posts ### Posts by Topic - [1-week lead-time (4)](https://blog.interpower.com/infopower/tag/1-week-lead-time) - [5-15 Sockets (1)](https://blog.interpower.com/infopower/tag/5-15-sockets) - [AC Power Source (2)](https://blog.interpower.com/infopower/tag/ac-power-source) - [Accessory Power (9)](https://blog.interpower.com/infopower/tag/accessory-power) - [Accessory Power System (4)](https://blog.interpower.com/infopower/tag/accessory-power-system) - [adding marketability (3)](https://blog.interpower.com/infopower/tag/adding-marketability) - [Angled Plugs (2)](https://blog.interpower.com/infopower/tag/angled-plugs) - [barcodes (1)](https://blog.interpower.com/infopower/tag/barcodes) - [bend radius (1)](https://blog.interpower.com/infopower/tag/bend-radius) - [cable (10)](https://blog.interpower.com/infopower/tag/cable) - [cable glands (5)](https://blog.interpower.com/infopower/tag/cable-glands) - [cable made to order (2)](https://blog.interpower.com/infopower/tag/cable-made-to-order) - [cable specifications (1)](https://blog.interpower.com/infopower/tag/cable-specifications) - [CE Mark (1)](https://blog.interpower.com/infopower/tag/ce-mark) - [CEE (1)](https://blog.interpower.com/infopower/tag/cee) - [circuit breaker (2)](https://blog.interpower.com/infopower/tag/circuit-breaker) - [circuit protection (3)](https://blog.interpower.com/infopower/tag/circuit-protection) - [compliance standards (4)](https://blog.interpower.com/infopower/tag/compliance-standards) - [conductor crimping (2)](https://blog.interpower.com/infopower/tag/conductor-crimping) - [connector locks (2)](https://blog.interpower.com/infopower/tag/connector-locks) - [connectors (1)](https://blog.interpower.com/infopower/tag/connectors) - [content (1)](https://blog.interpower.com/infopower/tag/content) - [cord clips (2)](https://blog.interpower.com/infopower/tag/cord-clips) - [cord set (4)](https://blog.interpower.com/infopower/tag/cord-set) - [country specific socket strips (1)](https://blog.interpower.com/infopower/tag/country-specific-socket-strips) - [covid-19 (1)](https://blog.interpower.com/infopower/tag/covid-19) - [crimps (4)](https://blog.interpower.com/infopower/tag/crimps) - [designing for export (45)](https://blog.interpower.com/infopower/tag/designing-for-export) - [Designing for North America (5)](https://blog.interpower.com/infopower/tag/designing-for-north-america) - [electrical safety (21)](https://blog.interpower.com/infopower/tag/electrical-safety) - [EMI (2)](https://blog.interpower.com/infopower/tag/emi) - [European Union Compliance (4)](https://blog.interpower.com/infopower/tag/european-union-compliance) - [ferrites (2)](https://blog.interpower.com/infopower/tag/ferrites) - [ferrules (1)](https://blog.interpower.com/infopower/tag/ferrules) - [flammability test (2)](https://blog.interpower.com/infopower/tag/flammability-test) - [frequently asked questions (2)](https://blog.interpower.com/infopower/tag/frequently-asked-questions) - [fuses (4)](https://blog.interpower.com/infopower/tag/fuses) - [GFCI Sockets (1)](https://blog.interpower.com/infopower/tag/gfci-sockets) - [Global Markets (3)](https://blog.interpower.com/infopower/tag/global-markets) - [heat shrink tubing (1)](https://blog.interpower.com/infopower/tag/heat-shrink-tubing) - [Hipot (1)](https://blog.interpower.com/infopower/tag/hipot) - [hospital-grade cords (9)](https://blog.interpower.com/infopower/tag/hospital-grade-cords) - [hospital-grade plugs (2)](https://blog.interpower.com/infopower/tag/hospital-grade-plugs) - [Hospital-Grade Products (8)](https://blog.interpower.com/infopower/tag/hospital-grade-products) - [Hospital-Grade Testing (1)](https://blog.interpower.com/infopower/tag/hospital-grade-testing) - [IEC (3)](https://blog.interpower.com/infopower/tag/iec) - [IEC 60320 (13)](https://blog.interpower.com/infopower/tag/iec-60320) - [IEC 60320 inlets (3)](https://blog.interpower.com/infopower/tag/iec-60320-inlets) - [IEC 60320 outlets (3)](https://blog.interpower.com/infopower/tag/iec-60320-outlets) - [ingress protection (2)](https://blog.interpower.com/infopower/tag/ingress-protection) - [international cable (3)](https://blog.interpower.com/infopower/tag/international-cable) - [international plug and socket patterns (1)](https://blog.interpower.com/infopower/tag/international-plug-and-socket-patterns) - [international power components (8)](https://blog.interpower.com/infopower/tag/international-power-components) - [International Power Source (3)](https://blog.interpower.com/infopower/tag/international-power-source) - [international socket strips (1)](https://blog.interpower.com/infopower/tag/international-socket-strips) - [Interpower Ames (1)](https://blog.interpower.com/infopower/tag/interpower-ames) - [Interpower History (1)](https://blog.interpower.com/infopower/tag/interpower-history) - [Japanese Hospital-Grade Cords (1)](https://blog.interpower.com/infopower/tag/japanese-hospital-grade-cords) - [JIC (1)](https://blog.interpower.com/infopower/tag/jic) - [JIT (1)](https://blog.interpower.com/infopower/tag/jit) - [Jumper Cords (3)](https://blog.interpower.com/infopower/tag/jumper-cords) - [made to order (3)](https://blog.interpower.com/infopower/tag/made-to-order) - [manufacturing (13)](https://blog.interpower.com/infopower/tag/manufacturing) - [medical requirements (3)](https://blog.interpower.com/infopower/tag/medical-requirements) - [modules (6)](https://blog.interpower.com/infopower/tag/modules) - [molding (3)](https://blog.interpower.com/infopower/tag/molding) - [MTO (2)](https://blog.interpower.com/infopower/tag/mto) - [NEMA (1)](https://blog.interpower.com/infopower/tag/nema) - [NEMA 12/4 Enclosure Ratings (1)](https://blog.interpower.com/infopower/tag/nema-12-4-enclosure-ratings) - [NEMA plugs (1)](https://blog.interpower.com/infopower/tag/nema-plugs) - [NEMA Sockets (3)](https://blog.interpower.com/infopower/tag/nema-sockets) - [NFPA 79 (1)](https://blog.interpower.com/infopower/tag/nfpa-79) - [north american cable (1)](https://blog.interpower.com/infopower/tag/north-american-cable) - [North American Hospital-Grade Cords (2)](https://blog.interpower.com/infopower/tag/north-american-hospital-grade-cords) - [OSHA (1)](https://blog.interpower.com/infopower/tag/osha) - [plugs & sockets (4)](https://blog.interpower.com/infopower/tag/plugs-sockets) - [power cord (11)](https://blog.interpower.com/infopower/tag/power-cord) - [power cord made to order (3)](https://blog.interpower.com/infopower/tag/power-cord-made-to-order) - [power system manufacturing (2)](https://blog.interpower.com/infopower/tag/power-system-manufacturing) - [product design (54)](https://blog.interpower.com/infopower/tag/product-design) - [product development (9)](https://blog.interpower.com/infopower/tag/product-development) - [product information (4)](https://blog.interpower.com/infopower/tag/product-information) - [product tracking (1)](https://blog.interpower.com/infopower/tag/product-tracking) - [puzzles (1)](https://blog.interpower.com/infopower/tag/puzzles) - [quiz (1)](https://blog.interpower.com/infopower/tag/quiz) - [rocker switch (1)](https://blog.interpower.com/infopower/tag/rocker-switch) - [RoHS (3)](https://blog.interpower.com/infopower/tag/rohs) - [safety (8)](https://blog.interpower.com/infopower/tag/safety) - [safety agency (4)](https://blog.interpower.com/infopower/tag/safety-agency) - [safety approval (1)](https://blog.interpower.com/infopower/tag/safety-approval) - [Saudi Arabia (1)](https://blog.interpower.com/infopower/tag/saudi-arabia) - [shipping (9)](https://blog.interpower.com/infopower/tag/shipping) - [special orders (2)](https://blog.interpower.com/infopower/tag/special-orders) - [strain reliefs (5)](https://blog.interpower.com/infopower/tag/strain-reliefs) - [supply chain (3)](https://blog.interpower.com/infopower/tag/supply-chain) - [Swiss plug (1)](https://blog.interpower.com/infopower/tag/swiss-plug) - [switches (1)](https://blog.interpower.com/infopower/tag/switches) - [technical-support (2)](https://blog.interpower.com/infopower/tag/technical-support) - [terminology (2)](https://blog.interpower.com/infopower/tag/terminology) - [testing (17)](https://blog.interpower.com/infopower/tag/testing) - [testing agencies (2)](https://blog.interpower.com/infopower/tag/testing-agencies) - [UL (1)](https://blog.interpower.com/infopower/tag/ul) - [ul 94 (2)](https://blog.interpower.com/infopower/tag/ul-94) - [ultrasonic weld (2)](https://blog.interpower.com/infopower/tag/ultrasonic-weld) - [USA Made Products (10)](https://blog.interpower.com/infopower/tag/usa-made-products) - [value-added (1)](https://blog.interpower.com/infopower/tag/value-added) - [voltage drop (2)](https://blog.interpower.com/infopower/tag/voltage-drop) - [wire (1)](https://blog.interpower.com/infopower/tag/wire) see all ## [InfoPower Archive](http://www.interpower.com/ic/infopower-archive.html) ### United States 100 Interpower Ave Oskaloosa, IA 52577 | [info@interpower.com](mailto:info@interpower.com) Toll-Free Phone: (800) 662-2290 | Toll-Free Fax: (800) 645-5360 Phone: (641) 673-5000 | Fax: (641) 673-5100 ### United Kingdom 10 Kelvin Drive | Knowlhill, Milton Keynes | Buckinghamshire, MK5 8NH | UK | [uk@interpower.com](mailto:uk@interpower.com) **UK, Ireland, Germany, Switzerland, Austria** Freephone: 00800 5566 5566 | Freefax: 00800 5655 5655 **International:** Phone: +44 (0)1908 295 300 | Fax: +44 (0)1908 295301 © 2026 Interpower. All Rights Reserved. | Interpower and the "I" logo are registered trademarks of Interpower.