Power cord

The female connector attaches to the piece of equipment or appliance while the male plug connects to the electrical receptacle or outlet.

A cord set may include accessories such as fuses for overcurrent protection, a pilot lamp to indicate voltage is present, or a leakage current detector.

A power cord or appliance coupler may have a retaining clamp, a mechanical device that prevents it from inadvertently being pulled or shaken loose.

[2] International power cords and plug adapters are used in conjunction with electrical appliances in countries different from those in which they were designed to operate.

Cords also have different types of exterior jackets available to accommodate environmental variables such as moisture, temperature, oils, sunlight, flexibility, and heavy wear.

Products sold in many different markets can use a standardized IEC 60320 connector and then use a detachable power cord to match the local electrical outlets.

This simplifies safety approvals, factory testing, and production since the power cord is a low-cost item available as a commodity.