A power cord for a UPS or PDU is defined by its two ends, its current rating and its length. Get all three right and the cord fits and runs cool; get one wrong and it either does not plug in or is under-rated for the load.
1. Identify both ends
Look at the socket on the source (UPS, PDU or wall) and the inlet on the device. The common pairs in a rack are:
- C13 to C14: the standard computer and server cord; cords are typically rated 10 A [1].
- C19 to C20: for high-output devices such as blade chassis, large servers and routers with a C20 inlet; cords are rated 15 A in North American listings or 16 A under IEC ratings [1].
- NEMA plugs (5-15P, 5-20P, L5-30P, L6-20P and others) connect to wall outlets or to UPS receptacles of the same shape; a locking plug (L-series) needs a matching locking receptacle.
2. Check the rating against the load
The cord's current rating must cover the device's draw, and the plug and receptacle must carry the same rating. A C19 to C20 cord does not turn a C13 outlet into a C19 outlet: each end has to match what is physically there.
3. Choose the length
Measure the route inside the rack, including cable management. Extra length adds clutter and blocks airflow; too short strains the connectors.
Not sure which cord you need?
Send us a photo of both connectors (source and device) or the two model numbers. We will confirm the cord before you order. Browse UPS power cords.
Source: [1] Eaton (Tripp Lite) product pages for C13 to C14 and C19 to C20 power cords (tripplite.eaton.com, read 2026-09-29).