This page is aimed at businesses, retailers, IT departments and commercial orders. It helps you quickly select the right IEC 60320 device connector and reduces incorrect orders in procurement, technology and support. If you are shopping privately or only need individual cables, you will find suitable items in the DINIC Shop – MAG GmbH's online shop for end customers.
The three plug types differ primarily in their typical areas of application, thermal suitability and power level. Choosing the right power cable avoids queries, incorrect orders and unnecessary complaints.
The following overview helps you quickly identify the three common IEC 60320 connectors.
C13 is the most common choice when powering classic PCs, monitors, printers or other standard devices in office and IT environments.
C15 typically comes into play where device connections are subject to higher thermal loads. If it is already clear in the project that a hot device cable is required, C15 is the obvious choice.
C19 is the typical solution for more powerful applications in data centres, technical rooms or industry. If a larger plug face or more power reserve is required, C19 is often needed.
Important: Not every plug is compatible with every device input. The actual device plug face should always be checked for purchasing and project management.
Three simple questions usually lead directly to the right direction:
Practical tip: If you are unsure, a photo of the device side or the exact model specification is often the quickest way to make the right choice.
mag-kabel.de is designed for companies, retailers and commercial orders. If, on the other hand, you are shopping privately or only need small quantities, the DINIC Shop is the right place to go for direct end customer purchases.
The right choice for commercial orders, ongoing requirements, series quantities, technical procurement, resale and custom-made products.
Then you will find suitable cables in the DINIC Shop – the online shop of MAG GmbH for private orders, individual purchases and smaller quantities.
This ensures that this site remains clearly focused on commercial procurement. At the same time, private visitors are directed straight to the appropriate shop.
If device connections are subject to higher thermal loads or if a warm device cable is expressly specified in the project, C15 is often the more suitable choice. For classic standard IT without these requirements, C13 is often sufficient.
When supplying more powerful devices, servers, PDUs or technical infrastructure, a standard C13 approach is often not sufficient. In such cases, C19 is the typical professional solution.
The most important point in practice: do not select based on "similar suitability", but rather on the device connection that is actually required. This saves time in purchasing, technology and support.
For quick product selection, the most common requirements can be divided directly into three groups:
The standard solution for classic IT, office and many device connections in everyday professional life.
For applications with increased waste heat and where a thermally suitable connection is required.
For servers, PDUs and powerful technology with higher power requirements or larger plug faces.
For project and series enquiries, important selection criteria include not only the device plug but also the length, cross-section, plug angle and approvals.
C13 is the typical standard solution for many IT and office devices. C15 is used where higher temperature resistance is required on the device side.
C19 is typically used for more powerful devices, servers, PDUs and technical infrastructure where a larger plug face is required.
The actual device input is always decisive. The decisive factor is which connection is provided on the device – not just what looks similar.
The device model, actual device input, desired cable length, operating environment and, if relevant, cross-section or plug angle are particularly helpful.
Cold device plugs explained: C13, C15 and C19 – which power cable is right for you?
C13, C15 and C19 in comparison: differences in connection, use and selection
Connection
Typical devices
Special feature
Typical purchase decision
C13
PC, monitor, printer, standard IT, office equipment
The classic standard for power cables
When normal IT and office applications need to be powered
C15
Hot devices, servers with higher waste heat, technical devices
For devices with increased temperature loads on the device side
When C13 is not the right choice thermally
C19
Servers, PDUs, high-performance technology, industry
Larger plug face for more powerful applications
When more power or a more robust infrastructure is required
Which connection is suitable for which device?
C13: the standard for many IT and office devices
C15: useful for higher waste heat
C19: for servers, PDUs and high-performance technology
Quick selection guide for purchasing and technology
Suitable ordering method
When is C15 more suitable than C13?
When is C19 preferable to C13?
Select the right power cables directly
FAQ: C13, C15 and C19 explained briefly
What is the difference between C13 and C15?
When do you need a C19 power cable?
Can I use C15 instead of C13?
What information is helpful for a quick product recommendation?
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For companies, retailers and project businesses Technical selection guide for the right device side Buying privately? Continue to the DINIC Shop
Quickly to the most important points
C13
Standard for PCs, monitors, printers and classic IT
C15
Suitable for higher temperature loads
C19
For servers, PDUs and high-performance infrastructure
Standard IT?
Then C13 is often the right starting point.
More heat?
Then check C15 – especially for warm device applications.
More power?
Then consider C19 – especially for servers and PDUs.
For companies, retailers and project business
Are you a private customer?
C13 power cables
C15 hot device cables
C19 Power cable