nema
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Posted: April 01, 2019Read more »
NEMA and IEC are the two most common standards for power cords used in North America. NEMA connectors are on the side of the power cord that plugs into an AC wall outlet. IEC connectors are the side that plugs into devices like computers or TVs. By and large, NEMA and IEC are compatible with each other. There are many similarities between NEMA and IEC standards, but they are not quite the same.
Key Takeaways
- NEMA and IEC are different power-connection standards and systems.
- NEMA configurations are commonly associated with North American electrical systems.
- IEC connectors are widely used with electronic equipment internationally.
- A single power cord can combine a NEMA plug and IEC equipment connector.
- Always verify the exact connector configuration before purchasing.
- Check voltage, current, grounding, and equipment requirements.
- Cable length and connector orientation are important for data centre installations.
- Do not assume physically similar NEMA or IEC connectors are interchangeable.
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Posted: March 25, 2019Categories: Power CordsRead more »
In North America and Japan, special power cords are required for use with any equipment in a hospital or medical setting. Some other countries such as Australia, New Zealand, and Denmark use similar recommendations, but they are not technically required by law. This article will focus on power cords required for medical equipment in North America, most notably the United States and Canada.
In Technical Terms
Under regulatory and safety committees in the US and Canada, hospital-grade power cord requirements are highlighted under the following sections:
- UL 60601-1 and CAN/CSA C22.2 no. 21 (medical equipment standards)
- UL 817 and CAN/CSA 22.2 no. 21 (power supply cord standards)
- UL 498 and CAN/CSA 22.2 no. 42 (attachment plug and receptacle standards)
Additionally, they must conform to NEMA WD-6 and UL 817 by meeting the following requirements:
- The blade plugs must be made of solid brass, not folded brass.
- The blade plugs are nickel-plated.
- The plug includes a strain relief or similar device
