Countries in
in the North America, parts of Central and South America, the Caribbean
and parts or Pacific operate on 110 Volt / 60 Hz, while the rest of the
world operates on 220 Volt / 50 Hz. In general, 110V includes voltage
range of 100-125V and 220V includes 220-250V. Many countries operate on
both 110V and 220V.As mentioned above,
not only the voltage differ within countries but so does frequency
(cycles per second). Countries use either 60 Hz (USA) or 50 Hz (UK). Most electrical products are not affected by the cycle change
because they internally convert AC voltage to DC voltage. And many
devices support both cycles. The difference in frequency may cause a
motorized 60 Hz device to operate slower on 50 Hz. You'll need to
double check the frequency for for analog products such as clocks as
this can cause it to keep incorrect time. Other products such espresso
makers and turntables may not operate properly with a voltage converter
if they only operate on single frequency. When in doubt, consult with
the manufacturer of the product. Also, transformers are not recommended for use
with heat producing appliances such as heaters, steamers and coffee
heaters.The third difference
is the plug adapters. Not all countries have the standard US flat prong
electrical outlet. In fact, most countries have a different plug
adapter from the US plug. Many countries have multiple type of outlets.
In this case, carry all types of plug adapters for the traveling
country.
Voltage converters
and transformers do not convert cycles. They can only be used to
convert the voltage. Step down voltage converter/transformer will
convert voltage from 220V to 110V thus, allowing you to use your US
(110V) products abroad in 220V countries. On the other hand, Step up
voltage converter/transformer will convert voltage from 110V to 220V
thus, allowing you to use 220V products in the US (110V). Most voltage
transformers are both step up and down, you can switch them to operate
as step down or step up.
Selecting
the correct converter or transformer
1.
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Determine if
your appliance actually requires a transformer/converter for use in
abroad. Look for the voltage rating on your appliance, if the rating
states something similar to 100V~240V that means your product is dual
voltage, in this case you can use your product in a 220V without a
transformer/converter. Most laptops and camcorder battery chargers are
dual voltage. However, you may need a plug adapter to plug it in to the
outlets abroad. Now, if the voltage rating states 110V or 120V it means
that your product is only single volt and it will require a step down
converter/transformer for use in 220V countries abroad.
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2.
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Now that you
know that you require a voltage converter/transformer, you need to
determine which one or what kind. Look for the watt rating on the
appliance or calculate the wattage by multiplying voltage x amps.
For example, 110V x 1.5A = 165W. Select the converter/transformer
according to the wattage rating of
your appliance. We recommend using a converter/transformer that is
rated at least a 25% higher than your products wattage rating. Using
converter/transformer to their maximum capacity will eventually burn
out the converter/transformer after prolonged use. Some items, such as,
laser printers and power tools spike when you turn them on. For these
types of situations you need to buy a transformer that is at least
double the products rating. |
3.
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After
selecting the correct converter/transformer, make sure that you have
the proper plug adater on the converter/transformer to plug it in to
the outlet abroad. All of our dual step up/down voltage transformers
include both US plug adapter and European plug adapter. Consult the
world plug adapter chart to determine which plug adapter you need.
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Voltage
Converter and Voltage Transformer
Voltage converters
are smaller travel size converters available in both Step Up and Step
Down. These converters can be used for electric items with heating
devices or motors such as hair dryer, curlers, irons, shaver, radio,
electric calculators etc... Converters are used for shorter period of
time. Voltage transformers are bigger and heavier in size. They also
come in Step Up, Step Down or both Step Up/Down. Although transformers
are designed for longer or continuous use, its always better to unplug
a transformer when not in use for longer life. Always make sure to
check the wattage of you appliances before using voltage
converter/transformer.
