We’ve previously discussed the dangers and risks associated with counterfeit power cords and it is worth revisiting for P-Lock power cords, specifically.

For those who are unfamiliar, P-Lock power cords are locking cords manufactured by SSEMCO, They are engineered with a pinch-to-release mechanism on the plug end of the power cord. When plugged into a compatible PDU, the plug locks securely in place. Most ServerTech, Chastworth (CPI), Raritan, Vertiv, Knurr, and NextGen Eaton PDUs are fitted with outlets that are P-Lock compatible.

When purchasing, it is important to ensure that you are buying genuine SSEMCO P-Lock power cords.

How to Identify an Authentic P-Lock Power Cord

It is easy to spot the difference between an authentic P-Lock power cord and a knockoff, when you know what to look for. The first thing to check is the marking on the plug. If you have the real deal in your hands, you will see:

  • The trademark logo.
  • SSEMCO’s UL number (E340286)
  • The patent number (US 8,469,734)
  • And the model number1

Diagram showing where to find the UL number, Patent number, and SSEMCO logo on a P-Lock Power Cord

Diagram showing where to find the model number on a SSEMCO P-Lock power cord.

In addition to the UL number, patent number, model number, and SSEMCO logo, the overall appearance of the power cord can be a good indicator of whether or not the cord is an an authentic P-Lock. Newer P-Lock power cords have a semi-transparent white head. Older P-Lock cords (manufactured before December of 2022) will have a solid color head, as will counterfeits.

Old style head of P-Lock

Older style P-Lock head

Newer style head of P-Lock Newer style semi-translucent white head

Counterfeits will never have the semi-translucent white head and will be a solid color matching the older P-Lock design.

The most important differentiator

The most important difference between an authentic P-Lock and a cheap knockoff is in the construction of the locking tabs. Genuine SSEMCO cords will have latches that are angled 10 degrees or greater, opening fully to provide a secure connection when engaged with a PDU. The latches on a counterfeit barely open at all.

Authentic P-Lock Authentic P-Lock plug will have tabs that are greater than 10 degrees.

Counterfeit P-Lock The latch on a counterfeit barely opens at all.

Conclusion

Beware of counterfeit P-Lock. It’s easy to spot one when you know what to look for. Check the plug for model number, UL number, patent number, and SSEMCO logo. Look at the overall appearance. Does it have the white semi-translucent head? If yes, then the product is genuine. Do the latches extend fully? If they are flat and barely protrude, then you have a counterfeit product.

  1. Valid SSEMCO Model Numbers

    • C14 Straight: 61-S1438
    • C14 R/A: 61-R14380-X (X=1,2,3,4)
    • C20 Straight: 61-S2048
    • C20 R/A 61-R2048-X (X=1,2,3,4)

    ↩

For more information, you can reach us at 888-346-4688 or by email at sales@stayonline.com.