When it comes to electronics, the little things can make a big difference. That’s why it’s important to know why power cords are essential to any device you own. So what is a power cord?
A power cord is a small cable that connects your laptop, desktop computer, monitor, or other electrical devices to a wall outlet or surge protector. Without one of these cables, your devices won’t have the power they need to operate.
There are several different types of power cords available on the market today. Each has its unique properties and uses for different types of electronic equipment. Let’s take a closer look at things you should know about power cords:
1. Know the Different Types of Power Cords
There are many different types of power cords, but they can be divided into two categories: appliance cords and extension cords. Your appliances have power cords, and they’re plugged into a wall outlet. Let’s look at each type of power cord in more detail.
a) Extension cord
An extension cord is a long cord with two ends: one end plugs into the wall outlet, and the other has a plug that you can pull out and plug into something else, like an appliance. There are also different extension cords, including a “three-prong” and a “two-prong” extension cord. Appliance cord, namely:
Three-prong extension cord: A three-prong extension cord is an extension cord that has three wires. Two wires are “hot,” and the other is a ground wire. A three-prong extension cord is typically used with appliances that need ground. A good example is a tv power cord.
Two-prong extension cord: A two-prong extension cord is an extension cord that has two wires. One is “hot,” and the other is a ground wire. A two-prong extension cord is typically used with appliances that don’t require a ground.
b) Appliance cord
An appliance cord is a long cord with two ends: one end plugs into the wall outlet, and the other is either permanently plugged into the appliance or has a “plug” that you can pull out and plug into the appliance.
Good examples of appliance cords are computer cords. Computer cords come in two different types: computer monitor cords and computer printer cords. Computer monitor cords usually have a computer-like plug on one end and a different-shaped plug on the other that fits into the back of the monitor.
2. Check the Amps and Voltage of your Device’s Cord
The first step in understanding what kind of power cord you need is to check the amps and voltage rating on your device’s cord. You can find this information on a sticker on the back or side of your device.
If you can’t find the information, then contact the manufacturer. The amp rating on your device’s cord tells you how much electrical current the cord can handle at once. The voltage rating tells you how much voltage the cord can handle.
Cord ratings can vary based on where the cord is manufactured. Consult a professional if you’re ever in doubt about your device’s cord ratings.
3. Be Mindful of the Length of your Power Cord
Another thing to consider when choosing which power cord to use is the length of the cord. This is especially important if you’re using an extension cord. It’s always a good idea to have a power cord about two feet shorter than the distance between the outlet and the device.
This helps prevent any accidents that could occur from tripping or falling over the cord. The length of the cord can also affect the way your devices operate.
For example, a power cord that’s too long can cause a computer to overheat. It can also cause the computer to pull too much electricity from the outlet, resulting in an electrical fire.
4. Don’t use a Damaged Cord — Ever!
If a power cord is frayed or damaged, don’t use it. Damaged cords can cause electrical fires and can cause your devices to malfunction. When in doubt, throw it out and buy a new one. It’s also important to remember that just because a power cord works for one device doesn’t mean it will work for all the devices in your home.
Check the amp and voltage ratings on all devices in your home, and only use a power cord rated to handle the load.
5. Beware of Cheap, Counterfeit Cables
Dealers love popular counterfeit brands because they know they can trick people into thinking they’re buying a quality product. Due to the rising popularity of USB-C, it’s become an attractive target for these counterfeiters.
Be wary of Amazon and eBay deals that seem too good to be true. It probably won’t last very long if it’s a knockoff cord. Counterfeit power cords can be hazardous and may not meet safety standards.
Make sure you’re buying your cords from authorized dealers and read reviews to see if other customers have had any issues.
6. Buy High-quality Cords from Trusted Brands
You don’t have to spend much money to buy a high-quality cord. But you want to ensure you buy a cord from a reputable brand. Checking reviews for the cord you want to buy is a great way to see what other customers say about the product.
You also want to be sure that the cord you’re buying is designed for your device. You wouldn’t want to plug a power cord designed for a computer into an electrical appliance like a shaver or coffee maker.
7. Use a high-quality Surge Protector on Your Cords
A high-quality surge protector protects your devices from electrical surges, brownouts, and spikes. These devices are plugged into the wall and then into your devices to help prevent any electrical surges.
Surge protectors have a circuit breaker that will trip if the surge is too strong and a plug that can shut off power to the device if it gets too hot. Make sure the surge protector you’re using has these two features.
It’s also a good idea to buy a surge protector with a rating higher than what you’re plugging into.
Conclusion
Choosing the correct power cord for your devices is essential. Not only will it help prevent electrical fires, but it can also extend the life of your equipment. When shopping for power cords, read the fine print on the packaging to ensure it’s suitable for your device. When unplugging your electronics, always unplug the device from the wall first and then unplug the device from the cord. These simple steps can prevent accidents and prolong the life of your equipment.
