If you've worked with rack-mounted networking equipment, you've likely encountered the frustration of dealing with large power bricks that don't play nicely with rackmount PDUs. I recently faced this exact issue when setting up some network switches and security appliances.

After some research and experimentation, I discovered these short power extensions are technically called:

• IEC C7 to C13 short extension cables
• Power cord couplers
• PDU extension cables
• "Piggyback" power cables

Here's what you should look for in these cables:

Length: Typically 6-12 inches (15-30 cm)
Connectors: 
- Input: IEC C7 (figure-8 connector) 
- Output: IEC C13 (standard computer power connector)
Current rating: 10A minimum
Voltage: 250V AC

These cables are perfect for:

• Extending wall-wart power supplies to reach PDUs
• Organizing power cables in tight rack spaces
• Connecting multiple power bricks to a single PDU port

Here's how I use them in my server rack:

[Wall Power] → [PDU] → [Short C13 Extension] → [Power Brick] → [Network Switch]

When buying these cables, watch out for:

• Low-quality connectors that don't grip securely
• Cables with insufficient current rating for your equipment
• Non-standard lengths that don't fit your needs

If you're working on a larger rack installation, consider:

// Pseudocode for rack power management
if (powerBrick.doesntFit()) {
    useShortExtension();
} else if (needsMorePorts()) {
    installAdditionalPDU();
} else {
    considerDedicatedPowerSupply();
}

Always ensure:

• The total power draw doesn't exceed PDU ratings
• Cables don't create trip hazards or block ventilation
• Connections are secure and won't work loose over time

As developers working with rack-mounted equipment, we've all faced the struggle of bulky AC adapters that don't play nicely with our neatly organized PDUs. The standard power bricks often create cable management nightmares, wasting valuable rack space and creating airflow obstructions.

The "thingy" you're looking for is technically called a C13 to C14 short power cable or sometimes referred to as a "pigtail power cable." These are typically 6-inch to 1-foot long cables designed specifically for rack environments.

// Example rack power setup pseudocode
rack.powerDistribution = {
  pdu: "APC Basic PDU",
  connections: [
    {
      device: "Cisco Switch",
      adapter: "C13 to C14 short cable",
      length: "0.5ft"
    },
    {
      device: "NAS Unit",
      adapter: "C13 to C14 short cable", 
      length: "1ft"
    }
  ]
};

• Connector Types: C13 (female) to C14 (male)
• Length: 6 inches to 1 foot (15cm to 30cm)
• Current Rating: 10A minimum for most networking gear
• AWG: 18AWG or thicker for better power delivery

When shopping online, use these search terms for best results:

• "C13 to C14 short power cable"
• "6 inch server PDU power cord"
• "rackmount power pigtail"
• "0.5ft IEC power cable"

For those working with custom rack setups, consider these alternatives:

# Python snippet to calculate optimal cable lengths
def calculate_cable_length(rack_depth, pdu_position):
    """Returns recommended cable length in inches"""
    base_length = 6  # minimum length
    if pdu_position == "rear":
        return base_length + (rack_depth * 0.5)
    else:
        return base_length

print(calculate_cable_length(24, "rear"))  # Typical rack depth

1. Use velcro ties to bundle excess cable length
2. Label both ends of each cable with device names
3. Consider right-angle connectors for tight spaces
4. Keep spare cables in your rack's accessory compartment