When it comes to electronics and electrical components, reliable power connections are not an option. One of the most widely used connectors in devices across the world is the C14 male socket—a dependable part that serves a crucial purpose in providing a stable, secure power supply to your devices.

Whether it's for a desktop PC, power supply unit, or lab equipment, the C14 socket is a standard you’ll often see, and for good reason. Let’s dive deeper into what makes the C14 male socket an essential element in power distribution systems.

What is a C14 Male Socket 
The C14 male socket, also known as an IEC 320-C14 connector, is a component of the IEC 60320 standard created by the International Electrotechnical Commission. It is a 3-pin construction that can accept a C13 female connector—usually at the end of a power cord.

Its design provides a firm connection and good grounding, making it suitable for high-end and sensitive electronics.

Main Specifications 
Here's what you should find in a typical C14 male socket:

1. Type: IEC 320-C14 male connector
2. Material: High-temperature thermoplastic housing with copper or brass contacts
3. Voltage Rating: 250V AC maximum
4. Current Rating: 10A maximum
5. Pin Configuration: Three pins (Live, Neutral, and Ground/Earth)
6. Compliance: Compliant with IEC 60320 standards, frequently UL, CSA, and CE approved

Its small and strong design makes it possible to safely and smoothly fit into most power-reliant products.

Features That Make It Stand Out 
Why is the C14 socket so popular? A few key features make it an instant favorite:

-> Universal Compatibility – Built to worldwide standards, it is compatible with C13 connectors across the globe
-> High Safety Standards – With an earth pin built right in and insulation barriers, it keeps shock hazards to a minimum
-> Durable Construction – Thermoplastic casing withstands heat, wear, and electrical stress
-> Panel Mounting – Flat flanges with screw holes allow easy and secure installation on equipment housings
-> Low Maintenance – Corrosion-resistant contact pins offer long-term reliability

Where You’ll Find It: Applications 
The C14 male socket is everywhere—quietly powering countless machines and devices. Some of the most common applications include:

1.  Desktop Computers – Used as the main AC power inlet
2.  Power Supplies – Both external and internal supply units have C14 inlets
3.  Televisions and Monitors – For serviceable and removable power cords
4.  Test and Measurement Equipment – Oscilloscopes, signal generators, and so on
5.  Medical Devices – Provides safety and performance in clinical environments
6.  Industrial Machines – Panel-mounted to control boxes and enclosures

Due to its standardized form factor, it can be used on any continent, so it is perfect for products sold globally with distributed networks.

Safety & Compliance First 
Safety is a top issue when dealing with AC power, and the C14 male socket takes that into account. Its earth pin grounds exposed metal components of attached devices correctly, keeping users safe from electrical malfunctions.

It is also often certified to prominent international safety standards such as UL (Underwriters Laboratories), CSA (Canadian Standards Association), and CE (Conformité Européenne)—bringing additional confidence to OEMs and end-users alike.

Locate Us

Address:
Plot No 3471, GIDC Phase - 3, Dared, Bypass Jamnagar, Jamnagar-361004, Gujarat, India

Email:
info@accumechmetal.com

Phone:
+91 9033 563 919