The purpose of a power cord is to provide electrical power to a piece of equipment or appliance. The copper conductors must be large enough to carry the energy demands in Amps and Volts. Note that Amps multiplied by Volts equals Watts. The maximum Wattage capability of the cord must not be less than the requirements of the equipment or appliance. Equipment and appliances are mostly rated by the amount of energy used in Watts. A power cord may not be marked with its rating in Watts so it is necessary to know the maximum Voltage and Amperage capacity. The ampacity of each gauge size of copper wire is listed in the National Electric Code table 400-5. The most common gauge sizes of the table are also shown in a separate PTM. Look for a label or marking near the plug to find the rating of each cord. Each Qualtek cord has the ampacity marked on the drawing and in its description. Choosing a cord size without checking the ampacity compatibility with the equipment may result in a cord that is too small to handle the electrical load. The result is overheating of the plug, cord, or connector. The voltage requirement of the equipment or appliance determines the configurations of plugs and connectors. A NEMA standard is used for common plugs and connectors applicable for all of North America. Each plug configuration is intended for a particular maximum voltage and ampacity. Many plugs and connectors agree with international standards and meet IEC requirements. Look for the PTM that shows all of the NEMA and IEC configurations.