What Is AC Cable?
An AC cable is a cable that accompanies an AC adapter that converts AC power into DC power. It transmits AC power from an outlet power supply, etc.
AC adapters are mainly used in electronic equipment such as PCs, and AC cables accompany them as well. Cable lengths vary but are limited to 30-50 m considering voltage drop.
There are several typical types of AC cables: a power cable, which supplies power to computers, displays, and other electronic products. There are two types of AC cables of this type: 2P (outlet side) – 2P (device side) type and 2P (outlet side) – 3P (device side) type.
Most AC cables for AC adapters are of the 2P (outlet side)-2P (AC adapter side) type, with the AC adapter side generally having a spectacle-shaped shape. Since the plugs in Japan have two plugs, the outlet side is mostly 2P type, but there is also a 3P type with grounding on the outlet side.
Principle of AC Cables
AC cables have a simple structure with copper wires covered with a rubber or polyethylene sheath. The copper wire transmits electric power.
The AC adapter to which the AC cable is connected converts AC power supplied from a household outlet into DC power and is classified into two types according to its internal structure: transformer type and switching type.
In general, the switching type tends to have higher conversion efficiency and generates less heat, and most AC adapters for PCs are of the switching type. However, the switching type has the disadvantage of having more components and a shorter life span than the transformer type.
Transformer-type AC adapters are designed to rectify and rectify AC power that has been stepped down by a direct transformer to direct current. Since the transformer is built in, heat is constantly generated, and the structure is simple and robust in exchange for poor conversion efficiency.
Some electrical products are made on the assumption that they are powered by either a transformer or switching type power supply, and using an AC adapter of the wrong type may result in malfunctions.
How to Select an AC Cable
First, select the length of the cable. When using a computer in a café, a tabletop is nearby, and a long AC cable is cumbersome, so select a short one. On the other hand, if you want to keep electronic devices away from power outlets, it is better to choose a long cable.
Some products can be connected to voltages up to 250V outside of Japan, and those come with adapters to convert from 2-hole to 3-hole, so it is necessary to select the product that best suits the situation in which you will be using the product.