12 Volt DC Extension Cable

If you want to choose a 12 volt DC extension cable to extend the reach of the power supplies, you should essentially check the connector type, wire gauge, wire length, polarity, and more. 12V DC extension cables are compatible with most devices, such as routers and CCTV security cameras. If your project is unique with specific specifications, you may need custom services.

The most common wire gauges of the 12V DC extension cord are 18AWG, 20AWG, and 22AWG. The thicker the wire is, the smaller the wire gauge is, and the more current the wire can carry.

To determine the wire gauge for the extension power cable, you may need to consider both current and length. If it is for short-distance power supply(<2m) or low-current devices, such as WiFi routers, low-power security cameras, and Arduino boards, you can choose wires with large gauges like 20AWG or 22AWG 12V DC extension cables. In contrast, you can choose 18AWG wires for higher current capacity.

Primarily, you can check the power input label or adapter plug on your device and see the manual to get the connector type of 12V DC power cord extension. To acquire the connector size, you need to measure 2 dimensions of the outer diameter of the barrel and the inner diameter of the pinhole with a caliper. The calculated data is the connector size of the cable.

The most common connectors of 12V DC cable extension are always barrel types, particularly including 5.5mm x 2.1mm and 5.5mm x 2.5mm. They are widely applied in devices like LED strips, CCTV cameras, and other low-voltage applications.

There is no limit to the length of the 12V DC extension cord, which mainly depends on the current draw of your device. But longer cables are more prone to loss power, so it is generally 10cm-10m in our orders.

Of course, as what we have said, the wire length can influence cable performance. The longer wire means more resistance in the wire, which can reduce the voltage reaching your device(voltage drop). This may cause malfunctions, dim lights, or devices not turning on. You can choose cables with a suitable length or choose a thicker wire gauge if you need more length.

You can first refer to the device label to check the polarity. Most 12V devices are center-positive with a positive inner pin and a negative sleeve. If there are no markings, you can use a multimeter to measure. Set the multimeter to DC voltage and place the red probe on the inner pin and the black probe on the outer shell. If the reading is positive, it’s center-positive; if negative, it’s center-negative.

Wire gauge is a key factor that determines how much current can safely pass through a 12V DC power extension cable. Thicker wires, like 18AWG wires, can carry up to 2-3 amps, and thinner wires, like 22AWG or 20AWG wires, can carry about 1-1.5 amps.

First, you need to ensure your device and power adapter operate at 12V because using a different voltage can damage your equipment. Then, ensure the barrel connector size and polarity are compatible with your device; you can check the labels or try to plug in the connector to check the compatibility.

To safely connect a 12V CCTV extension cable to your CCTV camera, you first need to make sure the cable is suitable for your device and power adapter. Then, plug the male end of the extension cable into the adapter and the female end into the camera’s power input. Ensure the connectors fit snugly to avoid intermittent power. If the cable is used outdoors, use waterproof cabling or cover enclosures to protect the wire from moisture and avoid a short circuit.

Most DC 12V power extension cords are not resistant to moisture, so you had better choose those waterproof versions, such as one made from rubber or outdoor-rated PVC. Or you can use additional protective tubing or waterproof enclosures to seal the cable and protect it from moisture. Additionally, avoid sharp bends to prevent water from infiltrating into cracks and use clips to keep the cable elevated or shielded.

There are several common potential risks you need to notice: voltage drop, overheating, and wrong polarity connections. Too long or too thin a wire is hard to load the current that the device requires, which leads to underpowered devices. For example, the voltage-sensitive LED strips can work with insufficient brightness or experience malfunction or failure. Loose or mismatched connectors can result in intermittent connections, overheating, or even short circuits. Incorrect polarity connections can bring about a failed start-up, circuit burnout, or even permanent damage.

Choosing the right wire gauge for the cable is the key to avoiding voltage drop. The longer the cable is, the thicker wire gauge should be. What’s more, keep the wire as short as possible and avoid connecting multiple extension cords at the same time, which can ensure consistent voltage and also effectively avoid voltage drop.

Yes, we allow you to customize the appropriate length, wire gauge, or other options for a 12V DC extension lead to meet your power requirements and installation layout.