Why Are Right Angle Power Cords Called So?

Angle power cords can be used for a variety of electrical devices, but is mostly used for computers. The angle of such cords is helpful in routing the cords in tight spaces or corners. The best part about Angled Power Cords is that they provide a lot of convenience. They’re perfect when you want to use power cords in confined places.

Moreover, you do not have to place any stress on the power cord conductors. These cords also save a lot of space when it comes to placing the equipment in an unusual position, such as behind home furniture or a space having limited clearance.

The term "right angle" is used to describe a 90-degree angle (or elbow). However, it is designed in four different directions: left, right, up and down. Right angled power cords can be recognized based on two aspects: one, the position of the ground pin, and two, the direction in which the cord trails from the vantage point when you connect it to a power source.

In order to understand right angle power cords in detail, we need to understand the design of two majorly used plugs and connectors - NEMA and IEC.

By studying these cords you will be able to understand how and why these power cord angles are named based on their direction.

Understanding the angles

The single factor that helps you to distinguish between the plug angles between NEMA and IEC power cords is the ground pin- which is the middle slot in a three pronged plug/connector/. The angle depends on when the connector is plugged into the power source. Not when facing the cord.

The North American Power Cords use NEMA configurations. For a better understanding, let us take the example of NEMA 5-15 plug which is used in household items. Its angle is based on when the ground pin of NEMA power cord faces down – in the 6 o’clock direction. Hence, the angle of power cord is determined by the position of the power cord when it is plugged into a socket. If the power equipment is plugged with ground pin down and the wire trails in the right direction, it is a right angle plug. You can apply the same logic to understand the left, up and down angles.

Understanding the connectors

When a power cord is plugged into the equipment and the ground pin is facing in the upward direction with cable trailing to the left, the power cord features the left angle connector. Similar logic can be applied to recognize the right angle connector.

Before deciding on Angled Power Cords, you need to know the purpose you will be using the cords for. Hopefully, this blog must have given you a better perspective about choosing them rightly.

Most power cords stores offer right angle power cords as well. If you are looking for such cords online, then also you have plenty of options to choose from. Wherever you buy the cord from, make sure you are not compromising on the quality.

Jennifer Truong is the owner of SF Cable, a california based online retailer of all kind of Computers, electronics, electrical accessories, networking accessories, cables, wires. Jennifer has extensive experience in the Electronics industry and blog.