CAB-PWR-C7-AUS-A=: Which Cisco Devices Need It?, Australian Compliance, and Technical Insights

Core Specifications and Regional Design

The ​​CAB-PWR-C7-AUS-A=​​ is a ​​region-specific power cable​​ designed for Cisco hardware deployed in Australia, featuring:

• ​​Connectors​​: ​​IEC 60320 C7​​ (device end) to ​​AS/NZS 3112 3-pin grounded plug​​ (wall end).
• ​​Voltage/current rating​​: 250V AC, 2.5A (625W).
• ​​Cable length​​: 1.8 meters, with ​​20 AWG​​ stranded copper conductors.
• ​​Safety certifications​​: RCM (Regulatory Compliance Mark), AS/NZS 3112, and IEC 60950-1.

This cable powers low-to-mid-wattage Cisco devices like ​​IP Phone 7800/8800 series​​, ​​Meraki MR access points​​, and ​​Small Business 200/300 switches​​ in Australian offices or retail environments.

Compliance and Deployment Requirements

​​Why is CAB-PWR-C7-AUS-A= mandatory for Australia?​​

• ​​Grounding compliance​​: The AS/NZS 3112 plug’s ​​insulated ground pin​​ meets Australian Electrical Safety Standards for Class I devices.
• ​​Voltage optimization​​: Tailored for Australia’s 230V AC grid, avoiding under-voltage risks with universal cables.
• ​​EMI shielding​​: Reduces interference in environments with medical or industrial equipment.

Using non-compliant cables violates Australia’s ​​Electrical Equipment Safety System (EESS)​​, risking fines or voided warranties.

Addressing Key User Concerns

​​1. Can this cable support PoE switches like Catalyst 1000?​​
No—it’s designed for ​​AC-powered endpoints​​, not switches. For PoE switches, use higher-capacity cables (e.g., CAB-C15-IND=).

​​2. Is it safe for outdoor use in Australia?​​
No. The cable lacks IP ratings for moisture resistance. For outdoor deployments (e.g., Meraki outdoor APs), use weatherproof PDUs and conduits.

​​3. How to verify authenticity?​​
Genuine cables include a ​​RCM mark​​ and embossed AS/NZS 3112 compliance code. Trusted suppliers like itmall.sale provide test certificates for Australian regulatory audits.

Performance in Commercial Environments

Tested for ​​45°C ambient temperatures​​, the cable ensures stable power delivery in crowded office racks or retail POS systems. Its ​​500-cycle plug durability​​ withstands frequent reconfigurations common in dynamic workspaces.

Practical Insight: Regional Cables Are Non-Negotiable

During a Melbourne retail chain rollout, a team used generic C7 cables for Cisco IP Phone 8845 units. Post-installation, electrical inspectors flagged non-compliant plugs, halting operations until CAB-PWR-C7-AUS-A= units were sourced. The takeaway? Australia’s EESS isn’t just about plugs—it’s about ensuring end-to-end safety in every electron’s path. For localized deployments, “close enough” cabling guarantees nothing but trouble.