Harmonised Cable Codes
Understand the letters and numbers printed on common European flexible cables. A designation describes the cable construction and rated voltage; it does not, by itself, specify the current rating of a complete power lead.
Read a cable marking
H05VV-F 3G0.75
| Part | Meaning in this example |
|---|---|
| H | Harmonised cable type |
| 05 | Rated voltage U₀/U: 300/500 V |
| First V | PVC core insulation |
| Second V | PVC outer sheath |
| -F | Fine-stranded conductor for flexible use |
| 3 | Three conductors in total, including the protective conductor |
| G | Includes a green/yellow protective conductor |
| 0.75 | Nominal cross-sectional area of each conductor: 0.75 mm² |
Common voltage codes
| Code | Rated voltage U₀/U |
|---|---|
| 03 | 300/300 V |
| 05 | 300/500 V |
| 07 | 450/750 V |
U₀ is the rated voltage between a conductor and earth; U is the rated voltage between conductors.
Common material and construction codes
| Code | Meaning |
|---|---|
| V | PVC |
| V2 | PVC for a 90°C conductor temperature, subject to the cable specification |
| R | Rubber |
| N | Chloroprene rubber |
| S | Silicone rubber |
| H2 | Flat, non-divisible construction |
| -K | Fine-stranded conductor for fixed installation |
| -F | Fine-stranded conductor for flexible use |
Position matters: the initial H identifies a harmonised type; H within the construction code can describe divisible flat construction. An initial A identifies a nationally recognised type.
G and X: the protective conductor
3G1.0 means three conductors, one green/yellow, each 1.0 mm². 2X0.75 means two conductors of 0.75 mm² with no green/yellow conductor. G and X here describe the core arrangement, not the insulation material.
What the marking does not tell you
Do not choose a lead by cable code alone. Check the plug, fuse where fitted, connector, conductor size, installation conditions and the rating of the finished assembly. Outdoor use, oil resistance, heat resistance and repeated movement must be supported by the particular cable datasheet.
A harmonised type designation and a HAR certification mark are different pieces of information. Check the actual approval markings and supporting product documentation.
Product information
This guide explains common flexible-cable designations rather than every cable code. For the construction, operating conditions and approvals of a particular MCC product, check its product page and any accompanying datasheet. Contact MCC Power Solutions if you need further technical information.
Need help choosing a cable assembly? Send a bespoke enquiry with your equipment details and requirements.
Technical reference reviewed October 2026. Confirm the specification and approvals of the individual product before ordering.