Surge strip and simple IEC power cords

[KEW]

1) I have a mix of IEC cords from computers and audio gear ranging from 14AWG to 19 AWG. I thought I'd pick up a couple of 12 AWG. Monoprice doesn't sell anything larger than 14AWG. I guess that means 12 AWG is probably not needed, but I still think it is a easy decision to pay another $5 for the overkill.
Is their a source of simple 12AWG IEC power cables that don't get into the added cost of "designer audio-boutique" cables.


2) We are fortunate to live where we have good, clean power. We have never had any component damaged from lightening or anything else about our power feeds despite some heavy lightening/thunderstorms.
However, we do have occasional power outages when they are servicing lines, etc.
In any case, I figure it wouldn't hurt to throw a simple surge strip into my system, but I'd like the heavy duty 12AWG cable. I think Monster makes some stuff like I'm after (12AWG) and their prices on surge strips doesn't seem so marked up as their subwoofer cables, etc. But I'd rather not give Monster my money if I have a choice. It would be nice if this strip was switched so equipment would be completely off until I turned on the pre/receiver.
Suggestions?

 

[highfigh]

1) I have a mix of IEC cords from computers and audio gear ranging from 14AWG to 19 AWG. I thought I'd pick up a couple of 12 AWG. Monoprice doesn't sell anything larger than 14AWG. I guess that means 12 AWG is probably not needed, but I still think it is a easy decision to pay another $5 for the overkill.
Is their a source of simple 12AWG IEC power cables that don't get into the added cost of "designer audio-boutique" cables.


2) We are fortunate to live where we have good, clean power. We have never had any component damaged from lightening or anything else about our power feeds despite some heavy lightening/thunderstorms.
However, we do have occasional power outages when they are servicing lines, etc.
In any case, I figure it wouldn't hurt to throw a simple surge strip into my system, but I'd like the heavy duty 12AWG cable. I think Monster makes some stuff like I'm after (12AWG) and their prices on surge strips doesn't seem so marked up as their subwoofer cables, etc. But I'd rather not give Monster my money if I have a choice. It would be nice if this strip was switched so equipment would be completely off until I turned on the pre/receiver.
Suggestions?

If you want to use the heavier cord on your computer, don't waste your time or money. A 500W power supply won't draw enough current to make it necessary. For that matter, unless you have extremely high powered audio equipment, 14ga is more than you need. Then, you need to think about the house wiring- a 14ga circuit is good for 15A with temporary surges to about +20% and 15A is roughly 1800W.

Munster power strips suck. Look at other brands that have triggered receptacles.

 

[KEW]

Thanks.
No I didn't mean to say I was looking for a cable for my computer (and I meant to type 18, not 19 AWG above).
This is a matter of philosophy. I know it is overkill, but as long as it doesn't cost much, I like overkill!
I'm not willing to pay $100 bucks for an "elite" 12 AWG power cable, but if I can find a simple 12AWG cable for $15 or less, I'd consider it money well spent.

 

[jostenmeat]

KEW, I think you might be nutty too, but anyways, what has your research found so far? I found some TrippLites at 12AWG, and they are a respected brand so far as I know, and the pricing is in your range. They have 2 ft (right angle though) at $15.51, and 7 ft straight at $18.52.

http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_noss?url=search-alias=electronics&field-keywords=iec+12awg&x=0&y=0

After reading your OP, I assume you have a UPS. If not, I rather throw this money into a UPS, but again I assume you do have one . . .

EDIT: sorry, now that I take a closer look these don't look like the proper terminals . . .

 

[KEW]

Thanks,
That is what I'm seeing. I haven't found a 12AWG standard cable at all!

I guess it is a lost cause!
Sanity is being enforced.

 

[arkight]

Look at your Receptacles if it looks like this below it is only good for 15A anyway.
http://www.homedepot.com/h_d1/N-5yc1vZ1xg3/R-100044028/h_d2/ProductDisplay?langId=-1&storeId=10051&catalogId=10053

here you go $20 and 15A
http://www.homedepot.com/h_d1/N-5yc1vZ1xg3/R-100595834/h_d2/ProductDisplay?langId=-1&storeId=10051&catalogId=10053

this is what a 20A receptacle looks like
http://www.homedepot.com/h_d1/N-5yc1vZ1xg3/R-202066702/h_d2/ProductDisplay?langId=-1&storeId=10051&catalogId=10053

i have seen 12 awg strips befor but can find on the website just go look

 

[Alex2507]

I thought I'd pick up a couple of 12 AWG.

I just found where Walter posted a link to exactly what you are looking for.

They go down to 10 gauge with your choice of an opposite end.
Only thing is that they don't list prices. That's usually enough of a hint for me.

 

[highfigh]

A 15A circuit is wired using 14AWG wire and a 20A circuit is wired using 12AWG wire and the effect of the wires' gauge is directly proportionate to its length. Using a 3'-6' 12ga vs a 14ga power cord has no benefit in all but the most demanding applications and only if the device is plugged into a circuit that's rated for higher current/wattage.