Power Conversion for Electronic Devices

When traveling ouitside of North America, there is one item that seems to get overlooked.

You've checked the weather and packed clothing accordingly. You made sure to travel light, so you packed the travel size hair dryer, left the laptop behind and opted for a netbook or smartphone, and your camcorder or digital camera won't take up much room.

You use your netbook during the flight and shoot some video during the balance of your first day. Later that night, you go to recharge the batteries and, "Oh no! What kind of outlet is that?"

Electrical outlets, voltage, and current will vary from country to country. So here's a couple tips to help keep your hair dry and your gadgets powered up.

Outlets: The shapes and configuration of the oulets will vary even if the electricity is being delivered with the same voltage. Nearly every electronics store has a plug conversion kit for sale. Expect to pay less than $15.

Voltage: Here's where things get tricky. First the good news. Many common electronic devices like laptops, cameras, MP3 players, and the like will convert the voltage internally. Here in the States our AC outlets deliver 110 volts at 60Hz, while much of the world operates at 220 volts at 50Hz. Check the power supply from your device and see if it says “100V-240V, 50/60 Hz.” Greece uses 230V at 50Hz, so you would only need the adapter for the plug.

But what if the hair dryer doesn't convert voltage? Then you'll also need a votage converter. This device is similar to a transformer that is used for decorative lights along your front walkway. One end plugs into the wall outlet, converts the power into something that the device can use, and delivers it to the device. Travel size versions are available, but may require a trip to an electronic supply store.

What's the votage (V) and frequency (Hz) of your destination? Voltage Valet has an online guide for the power in countries throughout the world. It includes an outlet guide as well. You can click on this link: http://www.voltagevalet.com/elec_guide.html.


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