Basically, a power cord is an electrical cable with a plug at one end. It's used for transferring alternating current from a wall socket to an appliance. They are often used in commercial or industrial markets. In addition to this, they are also used in shipyards and electric utility markets. These cords come in different sizes and constructions. Some are designed to be plugged into a wall socket while others are designed to be installed as exposed wiring.

Power cords have two or three wires: one is a hot wire, the other is a neutral wire, and the third is a grounding wire. A grounding wire is colored green, while the other two are white. These wires are usually insulated with a non-conductive material, such as plastic coating. There are also different grades of power cords on the market. The best quality cords are designed to protect people using them and to save money on repairs.

There are 15 different types of plugs in use worldwide. Each plug has a different configuration based on local regulations. They can have an insulated sleeve, an earthing pin, or a fuse.

The most common power cord is the NEMA 5-15P power cord, which is rated for 15 A at 250 V. It is also available with a side-facing head. It can also have multiple outlets. These cords are the most commonly used in the United States. They are available in a variety of sizes, including 15A, 20A, and 30A.

The C7/C8 connector is another common type of power cord. It is often used on small devices, such as desktop computers. The C7/C8 is a polarized power socket that is shaped like a figure 8. There is also a non-polarized version of this connector. It can be found on televisions, older TVs, and laptop power supplies.

Other common power cords include the C13/C14 and the NEMA 5-15P to C15. The NEMA 5-15P to C15 is the most common power cord in North America. The NEMA 5-15P to C13 power cord is also available, and it is another popular choice. The C13/C14 is also known as the Universal Power Cord. This is a current standard for televisions and desktop computers. 

The IEC (International Electrotechnical Commission) created a designation system for the world's plug types. These standards are followed by most countries, including the US. The IEC standard for power cords is IEC 60320. This standard deals with plugs, odd receptacles, and 250V appliances. They are used in countries that specify NEMA standards. The standard also includes the methods for determining power measurements. The methods are outlined in CSA 22.2 no. 21-14 and UL 817. These standards also include free technical support.

The IEC standard also sets standards for connectors. These connectors are designed to ensure that the pins are not the source of electrical current. These standards are adopted in most North American countries. They are also used in Europe.