Path: utzoo!utgpu!news-server.csri.toronto.edu!cs.utexas.edu!rutgers!bellcore-2!envy!karn
From: karn@envy.bellcore.com (Phil R. Karn)
Newsgroups: sci.electronics
Subject: Re: American electronics on European power?
Keywords: power, Hz, transformer, Europe
Message-ID: <1990Aug1.215056.1316@bellcore-2.bellcore.com>
Date: 1 Aug 90 21:50:56 GMT
References: <1990Jul31.154929.27950@ux1.cso.uiuc.edu> <8798@uhccux.uhcc.Hawaii.Edu>
Sender: usenet@bellcore-2.bellcore.com (Poster of News)
Reply-To: karn@thumper.bellcore.com
Distribution: sci
Organization: Packet Communications Research Group (Bellcore)
Lines: 21

Be careful with power converters. There are two main types:
transformers and half-wave rectifiers. Many travel kits contain one of
each type. You can tell them apart by their power ratings.  The
transformer unit is seldom rated for more than 50w, while the
rectifier unit can handle a kilowatt. But the latter produces a
substantial DC component that will destroy any load with a power
transformer. Use them ONLY on resistive or AC/DC motor loads such as
heaters, incandescent lamps, hair dryers, hand drills, etc. Do NOT
use them on equipment that uses power transformers or induction motors.

If your electronics have 120/240v switches, use them. This includes
most export models of foreign made equipment, including PC clones.
All you then need is a power cord with the right plug type (or an
adaptor).  If you have equipment that runs only off 120V (e.g., most
computer monitors), go buy a true 240/120v stepdown transformer. You
can find models up to 500w at most electronics stores.

Most loads will work as well on 50Hz as on 60. The only exception are
those that have synchronous motors, such as clocks and some turntables.

Phil