Monitor Cables
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A power cord is essential to operating a computer monitor for your home or office workstation. While this component can be easily overlooked when you purchase a new computer, it is important to regularly replace your monitor power cable to avoid fraying or other unsafe conditions associated with older cords. Learn more about selecting a monitor power cord or extension cord below.
What’s the Difference Between a Power Cable for a Monitor and an Extension Cord?
The differences between a monitor power cable and an extension cord are their uses and design. A monitor power cable is designed to power a computer or other compatible electronic device. It features one NEMA 5 15P male end and a female connector that depends on the designated device it’s created for. This means that one end plugs into your computer monitor and one plugs into a wall outlet or another female-ended power source.
An extension cord, on the other hand, can power just about anything. It’s designed with one NEMA 5 15R male end and one NEMA 5 15R female end. This allows extension cords to be used in connecting different cables. For instance, if your computer monitor must sit at a distance from a wall outlet, you could plug the male end of your monitor power cord into the female end of an extension cord and the male end of the extension cord into the wall outlet, providing power through both cables to your monitor.
Are Computer Monitor Power Cords Universal?
Computer monitor power cords are not universal because device ports are not universal. A computer monitor power cord is designed to plug into the port on your device. Standard computer monitor power cords are 120V AC outlets, though there are some power cords available in 5/15P - C3 connections. Check your device compatibility before purchasing a monitor power cord to be sure it will work with your device’s port.
What Lengths Do Monitor Power Cords Come In?
Staples carries monitor power cables in lengths ranging from 6 to 10 feet. Six feet is standard for powering your device from a wall outlet in most locations, but if your device is in a large office where outlets are spread further out, you may need to opt for a 10-foot cord to reach the nearest power source. If you need to power your computer from a greater distance, consider purchasing one or more extension cords to power your device. Extension cords are ideal for powering computer monitors or most any electronic device at a distance from the power source.