Designing and exporting electrical systems for use in countries and continents around the world require a universal interface in which IEC 60320 jumper cords and components provide. Today, end users expect to unbox their power cords—wherever they live—and plug them into wall outlets without any reconfiguration. These cord sets will bear a country-specific plug that is approved by that specific country’s safety agency. The other end of that country-specific cord will bear a rewirable or molded IEC 60320 connector which plugs into the equipment.
For multiple machines and devices, the IEC 60320 connector should plug into an IEC 60320 inlet in an Accessory Power Strip (APS) or Power Distribution Unit (PDU) alongside 4–12 IEC 60320 Sheet F or J outlets to connect jumper cords to those multiple machines. Such universality and adaptability makes exporting electrical designs almost seamless. Accessory power is quite a remarkable achievement when considering the numerous plug and socket patterns used worldwide.
This power strip incorporates an IEC 60320 inlet with up to 4–12 IEC 60320 outlets. Other APS features commonly included are power on/off switches, circuit breakers, supplementary overcurrent protectors, or fuse holders and fuses.
The PDU fits into a 19-inch rack. While it is similar to an accessory power strip, its casing is larger than an APS. Both the APS and PDU are powder coated for durability and offered in white, beige, and black. While the APS is often used on floors away from traffic, the APS can also be mounted to walls or other stable surfaces. Connector locks could then be added to either the APS or PDU to prevent accidental disconnects. The APS and PDU are especially beneficial when there’s insufficient panel space to power equipment, and where wall outlets are at a minimum.
Interpower accessory power strips come with 10A–15A/100–240VAC, and 10A–15A/125–240VAC power ratings while the PDU is rated at 16A/125–240VAC—they are typically ordered with one IEC 60320 inlet and 4–12 IEC 60320 outlets to connect multiple jumper cords from the APS/PDU to equipment. For example, the APS or PDU may each contain one C14 inlet with several Sheet F outlets, or a C20 inlet with several Sheet J outlets. IEC 60320 Jumper cords carry amperages and voltages ranging from 2.5A–20A/125–250VAC—entire electrical designs are built around these IEC 60320 components.
Interpower cords and components are manufactured in accordance with Interpower’s product quality plan: hipot testing, continuity testing, and ground testing with multiple inspections.
Cord clips are an inexpensive safety addition for longer power cords to reducing tripping and prevent the cord from dragging. While cord clips aren’t considered accessory power components, they do complement accessory power since multiple cords often extend from the wall several feet before entering the APS/PDU. While cord clips help prevent injuries—such as falling after tripping—they also extend cord life by preventing cords from contacting machinery and tools by preserving their jackets.
The clip is set at a convenient 4.75 inches behind the plug as an optimal distance after much experimentation and testing. The clips come in gray and black and are made in the U.S.A.