How to prepare First Time Buying a Power Cable Online? Here’s What to Know

What You Need Before Buying a Power Cable

A power cable must match the voltage and current (ampere) rating required by your device or mains supply. Using a cable with insufficient rating can lead to overheating or electrical failure.
Plug / connector type matters: For many computers and similar devices, plugs built to IEC 60320 standard are common. But if you live in a region with different mains-plug standards, ensure the plug matches your local socket.

Always check that the cable’s current-carrying capacity (ampacity) is sufficient for your load. Undersized cables can overheat and pose fire hazard.
Match insulation type and environmental suitability: If the cable will be used indoors, or outdoors, or in humid/damp conditions — make sure insulation and build quality suit those conditions

The “gauge” (or cross-sectional area / thickness) of the wire directly affects how much current it can safely carry. Thin wires may overheat under high current.
Material: Prefer good quality copper conductors — copper has high conductivity, resists corrosion, and is widely recommended for safe, reliable wiring.
Certification / standard compliance is crucial: Look for recognized safety / quality certifications (for example, those recognized under broader international standards or local equivalents) — this indicates the cable has passed safety and performance tests.

Inform them of the device type, its power (voltage/current) requirement, and plug type (connector standard). That ensures they suggest a cable that meets specs.
Share the environment / use-case (e.g. indoor, outdoor, humid, heavy-duty, long-run, flexible, fixed installation), so they can suggest insulation material and wire gauge accordingly.

Ask if cables carry recognized safety/quality certifications or standard compliance (for example, certifications equivalent to those from organizations like Underwriters Laboratories (UL), or comparable regional/national standards). Genuine certified cables are generally safer and more reliable.
Ask them to explain — or show documentation — of the wire gauge (mm² or AWG), insulation type, and current rating / max load. A knowledgeable seller should know these basics

If possible, request a sample cable before bulk order — especially if you are buying for critical or heavy-duty use.
Request test reports or manufacturer specs showing cable rating, insulation type, compliance with standards. This helps avoid low-quality or counterfeit products.
Confirm the conditions: Is the cable rated for ambient temperature extremes, humidity, or other environmental factors if relevant (e.g. for outdoor or industrial usage)?

What is the conductor material? (Copper or Aluminium?) — Prefer high-quality copper for better conductivity and safety.
What is the insulation material? (PVC, XLPE, flame-retardant, moisture-resistant, etc.) — Ensure it’s suited to your environment (indoor, outdoor, humid, etc.).
Is the cable flexible or rigid? (Depending on whether you need flexibility — e.g. for power cords — or fixed wiring.)

What is the maximum voltage and current rating of this cable? Will it meet or exceed your device’s requirements?
Does the cable comply with recognized safety standards or certifications (e.g. UL, CE, or national equivalents)? Is it “listed” or “certified”?
Is the cable tested for the conditions where it will be used — e.g. heat, humidity, continuous load?

What is the warranty or guarantee period (if any) for the cable?
What are the return or replacement policies if the cable fails or is found defective?
Are there options for verifying authenticity post-purchase (like checking serial numbers, batch codes, or certification marks)?

Do not overload the cable beyond its rated current / voltage. Even if it seems to work now, continuous overloading can degrade insulation or cause overheating.
Use the cable only for the intended purpose (e.g. indoor vs outdoor), and avoid bending or twisting it excessively, especially near plugs/connectors

Keep cables away from moisture, excessive heat, or direct sunlight when not in use. Good insulation can degrade in harsh conditions over time.
When storing spare cables, coil them loosely instead of tight knots — tight bending can damage insulation or internal conductors.

Visible cracks, cuts, abrasion, or damage to insulation — even small ones — are red flags.
Discoloration or melting near plugs or connectors, or a burnt smell when in use — these may indicate overheating or overload.
Loose connectors or exposed internal wires — these significantly increase risk of electric shock or short-circuit.