Is 10A Extension Lead strong enough

[Jacob_107]

I recently bought an extension lead to power my PC, monitor, printer and desk lamp. But I would like to ask for an advice because I don't know whether only a 10A extension lead is able to handle all those devices. Also, my PC has a 500W PSU inside and it says 13A on the lead from the PSU cable. The only thing I know is that devices don't always take maximum current which should be known as amps (correct me if I'm incorrect). Is there a calculation which will allow me to check if I'm exceeding the voltage or whatever (didn't pay much attention on physics lessons). And also is it fine to plug in a 13A device into a 10A socket? Otherwise, what should I do with the extension lead as I can't just bin it? Thanks.

 

[TJ Hooker]

Depending on where you live, your socket voltage will be either 120 or 240 V. That means a 10A cable could deliver 1.2 kW or 2.4 kW, respectively (power = voltage x current). You're fine. I'm guessing the 13A label just means the PC power cable is rated for 13A, but the PC is never going to be drawing that much.