IEC male connector

The male IEC connector on its own, to fit to a cable yourself. For wiring up ballasts and similar grow room equipment.

When you buy it loose

There are three situations where a loose connector makes more sense than a ready-made lead.

The first is a damaged end. A connector that has cracked, or where the cable is starting to pull out, gets replaced rather than throwing away the whole lead. The second is an unusual length: you cut the cable to size and fit a connector yourself. The third is a cable you already have and want to give a new purpose.

If none of those three applies, a ready-made lead is quicker and usually cheaper.

Fitting

Same rules as an earthed mains plug. Brown is live, blue is neutral, green and yellow is earth. Cut the earth core a few millimetres longer than the other two, so that under a hard pull the earth is the last to let go. Clamp the strain relief around the outer sheath of the cable, not around the individual cores.

If you do not do this regularly, have the fitting done by someone who knows the trade. A connector costs little; a connection running hot behind a ballast is another matter.

What it is for

Ballasts and similar grow room equipment. Before ordering, look at the inlet on your device: IEC connectors come in several forms and they are not interchangeable.

Technical Specifications:

• Type: IEC appliance connector, male
• Assembly: fitted to your own cable
• Intended for: ballasts and similar equipment
• Cores: live, neutral and earth

Frequently asked questions

When loose and when a complete lead? Loose for a repair, an unusual length, or a cable you already have. Otherwise a ready-made lead is quicker.

Which core on which terminal? Brown live, blue neutral, green and yellow earth, with the earth cut slightly longer.

Does it fit any device with an IEC inlet? Not automatically. IEC connectors come in several forms; compare with the inlet on your device.

What is it rated for? The record does not state it. Go by what your equipment asks for, and have it checked if in doubt.