GigaWatt IEC320-C5

The IEC320-C5 adapter from GigaWatt addresses a well-known issue among hi-fi and home cinema enthusiasts: many audio-video devices, such as Blu-ray players, televisions, or projectors, are supplied with entry-level power cables that use the C5 connector. This adapter allows you to replace those standard cables with higher-quality models fitted with C13 plugs, thereby paving the way for improved electrical connection of your equipment.

Design and materials: attention to detail

The IEC320-C5 adapter has a compact form factor of 65 × 29 × 25 mm and weighs only 70 grams. The housing is made of PVC and nylon, materials chosen for their robustness and insulating properties.

The contacts are made from non-magnetic materials, treated using a cryogenic process and demagnetized. The brass used for the connectors benefits from this dual treatment aimed at optimizing electrical conductivity.

Cryogenic treatment: a process originating from industry

Deep cryogenic treatment has been around since the 1960s and is commonly used in the motorsport industry to reduce wear and extend the lifespan of engine and gearbox components. It is also used in aerospace and, more recently, in the audio field.

At the very low temperatures reached during cryogenic treatment (below -150 °C), the molecules align in a more uniform and compact structure by eliminating the kinetic energy naturally present between them. When the material returns to room temperature, these new uniform molecular patterns are preserved, constituting a permanent change.

Cryogenic treatment of audio cables and components works by reducing the tiny gaps within metallic parts, which decreases artifacts in the electrical current, sometimes referred to as “noise.”

Demagnetization completes this process by eliminating residual magnetic charges that may affect the electrical signal.

Practical applications and compatibility

The adapter is intended for owners of audio-video equipment with a C5 power socket, including:

• DVD and Blu-ray players
• LCD and plasma televisions
• Projectors
• Laptop power supplies
• Various home cinema and hi-fi devices

This list is not exhaustive: any device that accepts a C5 plug can benefit from the adapter. Compatibility with C15 cables (the high-temperature version of the C13) further extends the possibilities, as the C15 connector can withstand temperatures up to 120 °C, compared with 70 °C for the standard C13.

Limitations to be aware of

The adapter is rated for a maximum continuous load of 2.5 A at 250 V (or 10 A at 125 V), in line with C5 standard specifications. This current rating is sufficient for most relevant devices, but high-consumption equipment (such as power amplifiers) generally uses C13 or C19 connectors directly and therefore is not covered by this adapter.

Furthermore, adding an adapter between the cable and the device introduces an additional junction in the power circuit. GigaWatt compensates for this by the build quality of the contacts and their specific treatment.

Technical Specifications

Electrical Specifications

• Mains voltage: 250 V / 50–60 Hz
• Maximum continuous load:
  • 2.5 A at 250 V
  • 10 A at 125 V

Physical Specifications

• Dimensions: 65 x 29 x 25 mm
• Weight: 0.07 kg
• Materials:
  • Housing: PVC and nylon
  • Connectors: demagnetized brass

Compatibility

• Allows connection of a power cable fitted with a C13 plug (IEC320) to a C5 female socket (cloverleaf)
• Also allows connection of a higher-quality cable with a C15 plug to a C5 / C6 female socket
• Typical applications:
  • DVD / Blu-ray players
  • LCD / plasma TVs
  • Video projectors
  • Laptop power supplies
  • Other audio-video equipment

Benefits

• Improves the performance of connected audio-video equipment
• Reduces power losses
• Optimizes the current flow to the device
• Enhances sound quality and picture quality
• Allows the use of higher-quality power cables