Newly sponsored by Capital One, the League Cup marks the competitive start of the 2012/13 season with ties being played in the week beginning 13th August.
Northampton have had an excellent record in the compeition of late, defeating Reading and Liverpool in 2010/11 and Ipswich Town last season.
Cardiff City reached the final earlier this year before a heartbreaking penalty shoot-out defeat at the hands of Liverpool.
"It is an exciting game to start the season with. I think because the first round is before the league season begins it is a very good opportunity to test ourselves against a very good side," said Town boss Aidy Boothroyd in response to the draw.