Core Functionality of the CAB-C13-C14-AC=
The CAB-C13-C14-AC= is a universal AC power cable designed to connect Cisco devices to power distribution units (PDUs) or compatible power supplies. Featuring an IEC 60320 C13 plug on one end and a C14 receptacle on the other, it enables secure power delivery for servers, switches, and modular chassis in data centers or enterprise networks.
Technical Specifications and Safety Compliance
- Connector Types: C13 (device end) to C14 (PDU/supply end), standardized for global compatibility.
- Voltage Range: Supports 100–240V AC at 50/60Hz, suitable for multi-regional deployments.
- Certifications: UL/CE listed and compliant with IEC 60320 safety standards for insulation, grounding, and load capacity (10A maximum).
- Durability: Shielded twisted-pair design with flame-retardant PVC jacket, rated for 70°C continuous operation.
Why Cisco-Certified Power Cables Matter
While generic C13-C14 cables are widely available, the CAB-C13-C14-AC= offers Cisco-specific advantages:
- Guaranteed Compatibility: Pre-tested with Cisco UCS servers, Catalyst 9500 switches, and Nexus 9000 series to avoid boot errors or intermittent power loss.
- Safety Assurance: Meets Cisco’s stringent internal testing protocols for electromagnetic interference (EMI) suppression and surge protection.
- Warranty Compliance: Third-party cables may void support contracts for mission-critical hardware like UCS B-Series blades.
Key Deployment Scenarios
- Data Center Racks: Powering multiple Nexus switches from a single Cisco PDU.
- Server Farms: Connecting UCS C-Series rack servers to centralized power sources.
- Modular Chassis: Supplying auxiliary modules in Catalyst 9400 or 9500 series switches.
For teams sourcing genuine components, [“CAB-C13-C14-AC=” is available through (https://itmall.sale/product-category/cisco/), a certified supplier for Cisco power accessories.
Addressing Common User Concerns
Q: Can this cable support 208V three-phase power systems?
A: Yes—the CAB-C13-C14-AC= is rated for 100–240V, making it compatible with both single-phase and three-phase PDUs.
Q: Is it backward-compatible with older Catalyst 6500 series switches?
A: Yes, provided the device uses a C14 inlet, which is standard for most Cisco rack-mounted hardware.
Cost vs. Risk: The Case Against Generic Alternatives
- Hidden Costs: Non-Cisco cables lack shielding optimized for high-density racks, increasing EMI-related downtime risks.
- Longevity: Engineered for 15,000+ insertion cycles, the CAB-C13-C14-AC= outlasts generic alternatives by 2–3x in high-churn environments.
- Traceability: Genuine cables include Cisco SMARTnet-compliant serialization for asset management.
Final Perspective: The Unseen Value of Certification
In high-density IT environments, the CAB-C13-C14-AC= isn’t just a cable—it’s a reliability multiplier. While third-party options might save 10–10–10–20 upfront, the operational costs of a single power-related failure—whether from EMI-induced errors or warranty disputes—can dwarf those savings. For engineers, specifying this cable isn’t about brand loyalty; it’s about eliminating variables in an already complex power chain. In critical infrastructure, that’s a tradeoff worth making every time.