All electronics are not created equal. In fact, around the world - even if you purchase the same brand and model - there are various differences in both construction and performance. Not always visible to the naked eye, these differences can make or break your ability to utilize your electronics in other parts of the world.

 

Most Electronics are NOT Universal

While it might not be common knowledge to the average person, the truth is that most electronics are not designed for global use. From the different standards in voltage to the multiple audio & video formats used in various countries, there are many obstacles to overcome if you plan to purchase or use your electronics in other countries. With the exception of laptops - which usually feature a power adapter that works with any voltage - nearly all electronics are only useful in the country or region where they were purchased. While it's possible to use your devices in other regions of the world, it will usually require expensive converters, adapters, and a lot of messy cables.

 

The Voltage Problem

Voltage is just one of the many issues with electronics. The voltage problem also applies to personal devices and kitchen appliances; anything that uses electricity. While North America uses 120 volts, Europe uses 220 volts. This difference in voltage means that your US electronics will receive an overdose of electricity if used in Europe (which is very dangerous), while European-bought electronics won't have enough electricity to function properly. Either situation can result in damaged devices, fire, or even electrical shock.

 

Color Systems and Formatting Issues

Color systems are another issue, and something that we would hardly ever think to consider. TVs and blu-ray players use specific formatting to encode and decode the information that displays the image. The 3 main color systems around the world are PAL, NTSC, and Secam. Each color system is specific and it's not possible to use a PAL TV with a NTSC Blu-ray Player. PAL, NTSC, and Secam models are respectively manufactured and sold to regions that utilize those formats and are not cross-compatible without expensive converters.

 

Disc Playback and Region Coding Problems

This issue is similar to the rest but it only applies to DVD and Blu-ray Players. There are 3 different "regions" of Blu-ray and 7+ regions for DVD discs. In each region, the players are coded to read discs that originate from that region only. For example, Region 1 DVDs are only compatible with region 1 DVD Players. The reason for this is mainly to prevent copyright issues, minimize pirating, and to ensure timely release dates and fair prices in various parts of the world. Another aspect is political and religious environments in which much censorship demands that certain versions of media are not available, especially if they are deemed to violent or provocative.

 

How to Solve it all?

There is a simple solution to all of the challenges faced by traveling, purchasing, and using electronics from around the world. After all, it should be easy enough to simply plug & play without the headaches, right? Actually, it's much easier than you think.

 

Multisystem electronics, global electronics and region-free players unlock the universal potential of your devices to guarantee compatibility regardless of where you are in the world. Specially, professionally modified and not available in major retailers, these units feature hardware/software advancements that give them the global flexibility and functionality that the manufacturers should have given you since the start.

 

Multisystem TVs feature updated internal components and specialized software that allows them to work with any color system. They can also work with any voltage - all you need to do is flip a switch on the TV to change from 120 to 220 volts. This lets you use your TV with a Blu-ray Player from anywhere in the world, and to utilize the local cable TV without a mess of extra wiring and pricey video conversion gadgets. Region-Free DVD and Region-Free Blu-ray Players allow you to play discs from anywhere, on any TV (even non-multisystem TVs), with any electrical voltage from 110 to 240 volts. Universal personal devices such as curling irons and razors are compatible with any voltage, relieving you from any worries about a fire or damaging your device.

 

The best part about these global, multisystem, and region-free electronics is that you can choose from your favorite brands and the latest models. It's important to find an experienced retailer who specializes in these modified units because they are not available in department stores or major retailers. They are professionally modified to give you the global flexibility that you deserve and most of them feature the same manufacturer's warranty.

 

With over 35 years of experience in global electronics and international relocation, we're an authority on traveling with electronics. We carry a wide selection of electronics and appliances intended for global use, as well as hard-to-find 220 volt electronics from the top brand names. From washers and dryers to refrigerators, ranges and kitchen appliances to 4K TVs and the latest in Blu-ray technology, we specialize in giving you the best brands at the best prices - all with the confidence of global compatibility.

 

Our reputation speaks for itself, and we take pride in that. Make your life easier by shopping with us today. If you're planning to move overseas, we'll even give you a free, no-hassle consultation to explain how we can make your move, your life, and your future easier with our specialty services.

 

In today's fast-paced world of communication and travel, we expect things to be as flexible and convenient as possible. We have portable battery backups for our mobile devices, we can store our data on the cloud for easy access, and we can pay for our groceries - or our tab at the coffee shop - with a simple swipe of our cell phone. If there's a product or service that makes our lives easier, faster or more productive, you can be sure that people will want it.

 

With electronics being one of the biggest markets in the world, it's not really a surprise that consumers and businesses alike are interested in the newest, most capable and most complete devices that money can buy. While many people won't even utilize a third of their electronic's capabilities, there are many of us who frequently squeeze every last drop of performance and capability out of our devices.

 

You might be familiar with the term "multisystem" and you may have never heard of it - but it's another one of those technologies that allows for maximum flexibility, compatibility and usability. Multisystem technology allows people to get the most from their home electronics or personal devices when traveling abroad or moving overseas, and here's how it works.

 

The term multisystem, generally speaking, represents a device that's capable of working with multiple systems. For example, a Multisystem TV can work at different voltages, with different standard color systems, and varying tuner frequencies. In different countries, continents and regions of the world, there are different systems for the delivery of data, electricity and audio/video compatibility.. A TV purchased in North America is not compatible with the voltage used in Europe, nor is it compatible with the european color system. In order to use your North American TV in England, you'll need a voltage converter and a video converter - at minimum. However, with a multisystem TV, it's plug-and-play. The Multisystem TV can be used with any voltage and any color system, without the need for any type of external converters. In basic terms, the multusystem TV is a global TV.

 

Multisystem electronics are not limited to just TVs. Blu-ray players, surround sound systems and even personal electronics or small appliances are available to consumers who want products that will work anywhere in the world.

 

Additionally, there is a wide array of products not considered to be multisystem per say, but that feature dual-voltage technology to provide global compatibility. These kind of products include home appliances and personal electronics such as hair dryers, electric razors and curling irons. They're designed to work at any voltage and can be used anywhere in the world. Both multisystem electronics and dual-voltage products are very valuable to anyone who travels, lives abroad or is planning to move overseas in the near future. These products - as mentioned before - are plug-and-play. They're designed to work everywhere without the need for additional converters, wires, adapters and the like. They completely eliminate any issues or worries about foreign compatibility, allowing you to focus on more important things than "Why did my curling iron just start on fire!???"

 

If you're someone who frequently goes overseas or travels abroad for long periods, you'll surely understand these struggles of international compatibility - or at least have experienced it at some point. There's nothing like arriving in a comfortable hotel room after a week of hiking in the Swiss Alps; until you decide to give your face a much-needed shave and literally melt the internals of your razor because it's not designed for the 220-volt electricity used in Switzerland. It can be a rather stressful learning lesson, but it doesn't have to be. Whether you've experienced these setbacks before or are just learning about them, multisystem electronics and dual-voltage electronics can eliminate the hassles.

 

As specialists in multusystem electronics, dual voltage electronics and international relocation with over 35 years experience, 220 Electronics can help you eliminate the worries about using your electronics and/or appliances overseas. We carry a large selection of multisystem electronics, dual-voltage electronics, and home appliances designed for global use and 220 bolt use. Better yet, we're the only retailer of these devices who guarantees the lowest prices in the world. For more information on our products, our inventory or our relocation services, visit our website at 220-Electronics.com today. Get up to speed with the flexibility and convenience offered by multisystem and dual-voltage electronics and never face annoying compatibility complications again.

 

Have you thought about how you’ll keep yourself entertained at home overseas? If music and movies rank high on your list, you’ll need to consider that your current home theater system probably won’t work abroad.

Expat Home Theater Systems Combat World Conversion Conflicts Abroad

Welcome to the confusing world of voltage conversion, foreign video conversion, DVD region codes and Blu-Ray region codes. Click on these links to understand how this world coding system can impact your ability to play your favorite media. For example, a DVD disc from Region 1 (USA and Canada) won’t play on a DVD player from Region 2 (Europe and Japan.) And there are a total of 6 regions worldwide. The good new is, there’s a simple solution to all the confusion.

Multisystem, Region-Free Home Theater Systems Solve The Problem

The best home theater systems for expat living are multisystem and region-free for use worldwide. They’re manufactured by top brands like Panasonic, Pioneer, Yamaha, Sony, Samsung, Klipsch, LG and Bose. But they’re not available through most retailers. The model choices and brand selections may be limited (if you can find them at all) in your foreign expat destination. Specialty retailers’ online stores typically ship worldwide. And in many cases, shipping may be free.

Modern home theater systems require at least one display device and a sound system. Sounds simple, right? But CEPro, a leading trade publication for professionals involved in the custom electronics business, cites these 6 Hot Home Theater Trends for 2016:

6 Hot Home Theater Trends

1. Multiple Screens: Gives you more than one viewing option in a media room.

2. Hybrid Space: Includes family room, game room, media room in a single space.

3. Social Networking: Post social network updates while watching television.

4. Networking Media: Internet-connected Blu-Ray Players, Gaming Consoles, Apple TV and other.

5. Floor Standing Soundbar Speakers: Fills your room with the clearest audio.

6. Value: Get high performance, feature-rich components at a lower cost.

The typical expat living scenario may not call for multiple screens. But the trend for creating a "hybrid space" seems pretty spot on, wouldn't you say? And free-standing speakers and soundbars accommodate your flex space better than built-ins. Not to mention you get much higher quality sound from your speakers when they're not enclosed.

Once you've agreed how to configure your media room, you can focus on how to configure your home theater. Regardless of the sizes and numbers of screens and speakers you choose, there are a few standard features you should make sure you include for the best electronic experience abroad.

5 Top Standard Features In Home Theater Systems For Expats

1. Region Free Coding: Plays Blu-Ray DVDs, Standard DVDs and CDs from anywhere in the world.

2. Multisystem support. (Supports NTSC, PAL, SECAM)

3. 110-240 volts 50-60 hertz

4. USB input (Play media from external devices, like your phone or camera.)

5. HDMI Output (Connect HDMI compatible devices, like a Blu-ray player.)

Add Smart Features For The "Most Flexible" Media Experience

• 3D Blu-ray Playback: View 3D movies with special 3D glasses.
• Wifi Built-in: Avoid the cable clutter with wireless connectivity.
• Internet Streaming capabilities:  Stream from Youtube, Netflix, Amazon, Vudu, Picasa, Pandora and a multitude more apps.
• Bluetooth capabilities:  Stream audio wirelessly from your cellular phone, tablet, computer or any other Bluetooth compatible device.
• Networking Capabilities: Connect external streaming devices like Apple TV or Fire TV. Or gaming consoles like Xbox or PlayStation

"By 2019, more than 50% of TV households in Japan, the US, the UK, France and Germany will have smart TVs [ according to IHS]," writes a Broadband TV news correspondent.

Add Surround Sound & Ultra HD 4K For The "Ultimate" Media Experience

The butter on the popcorn? Powerful multi-channel surround sound speakers and Ultra HD 4K simulate a live cinema, coliseum or auditorium experience. Home theater systems are “giving way to soundbar/subwoofer systems because they offer an easy way to fill a room with audio,” says Peter Tribeman of Atlantic Technology, an audio engineering company. And according to TechRadar.com, “4K Ultra-High Definition will define the future of television.”  

When you invest in electronics for expat living, it only makes sense to invest in technologies that are here to stay awhile. Likewise, investing in region-free multi-system components is like buying global insurance. You can take your investment anywhere you go. 

Don't limit your entertainment choices abroad. Seek the advice of a region-free, multi-system electronics expert before you purchase. Request a free consultation online or call 220 Electronics at 847-640-9000 (International). Dial 877-578-0587 in the U.S.

View Our Multisystem/Region-Free Home Theaters.

View Our Multisystem TVs.

5 Top TV Purchasing Considerations For Expats

When you make your decision to move your life abroad, your best intention is likely to simplify your life by getting rid of things you don’t need. But there’s one item we find most expats refuse to give up. You guessed it right--the TV.

As much as we know you don’t prefer anything “complicated,” we know purchasing a new television today can be a confusing chore. From Smart TVs with wifi, internet and app capabilities, to Plasma, LCD, LED and OLED, HDTV, and curved or flat panel aesthetics, you have so many considerations. And expat living adds even more complexity to your television purchase choices.

So we thought we would simplify your purchasing process by explaining these top five considerations for expats moving outside North America.

1) Your Standard North American TV Will Not Work Overseas.

Some companies will tell you that if your TV has a digital signal, HDMI and 110-220 volt capabilities, your TV should be compatible abroad. But this is simply not true.

Standard TV systems purchased at most “big box” retailers in North America are encoded to comply with the National Television System Committee (NTSC) color and picture quality standards in the U.S. So you can’t just go to your local electronics retailer and purchase a television that will work in your home abroad. (Error: Mode Not Supported)

Alternatively, PAL (Phase Alternation by Line) and SECAM (Sequential Color with Memory) are the common color and quality standards outside North America (and Japan.) To comply with these popular modes overseas you must purchase a Multi-system TV.

2) Multi-system TVs Work Anywhere In The World.

Multisystem televisions are compatible with NTSC, PAL and SECAM standards. As opposed to NTSC 110-120 volts and 60 Hz output, multisystem TVs accommodate 110-240 volts with 50 and 60 Hz output. Aside from the fact that you can use your multisystem TV anywhere in the world, multisystem specialty retailers typically are less expensive, offer a larger brand selection and larger sizes (even 70” and above) of the latest models and technologies.

Multi-system televisions are available in Plasma, LCD, LED and TV/DVD Combos. And they come equipped with all the top modern TV features like 3D, curved screen, wifi built-in, HD, full HD, ultra HD 4k, and built-in tuners. In most cases, the built-in tuner is not necessary outside North America when your multisystem TV is connected to a cable box or satellite receiver.

Both Plasma and LCD and are aging technologies. But, many of our customers still prefer them. We understand you like what you like. Viewing a movie in 3D is all the rage at the box office, but it may not be your thing at home abroad. It’s a cool technology that requires a 3D DVD player and 3D glasses. Some of our expat customers find it  “complicates” their viewing capabilities a little more than necessary.

If you’re questioning whether you need HD, full HD or ultra HD 4k, here’s the deal.

• Good High Definition: 720 resolution
• Very Good High Definition: Full HD - 1920 x 1080 resolution
• Ultra High Definition: HD 4K

3) Multi-System LED Televisions Offer The Most Modern Viewing Technology.

In both standard and multisystem LED Televisions, panel design is a matter of aesthetic choice. Curved televisions can be wall-mounted, just like a flat-panel TV. Curved television panels allow greater flexibility in furniture positioning. You and your guests can view it equally as well from either side, as though you are sitting front and center.

4) Multi-System Smart TVs Are A Smart Choice For Expats.

Multi-system Smart TVs come with all the bells and whistles, including wifi and full web browser capabilities, 3D imagery and 3D glasses, voice recognition and motion control, and web apps. Think computer and TV, all-in-one.

5) Region-Free Smart Blu-ray Players Offer Smart TV Capabilities.

Understand Blu-Ray DVD Regions.

Region-Free Smart Blu-ray DVD Players can lend your standard multisystem TV the same Smart functionality you get by purchasing a Smart TV. However, this requires a custom chipping process that we provide in-house using a custom DVD Region chip design to ensure your Blu-ray DVD player can play any disc, regardless of its country of origin.

The latest Region Free Blu-Ray DVD Players even come equipped with streaming media and PlayStation capabilities.

Whether you’re going abroad to retire in one of International Living’s Top 10 Retirement Havens, to work in one of Mercer’s Top 10 Best Cities for Expats, or anywhere else in the world, you’re wise to make sure you’re equipped with a multi-system, region-free television.

If you have any questions, contact us for a FREE Relocation Consultation.

The holiday season is in full-swing once again, and there's no shortage of craziness going on. From time off work and school, to vacations & travel, family gatherings and more, it always seems like the busiest time of year. At 220-Electronics, this is definitely our busiest time of year and one of those reasons is holiday shopping, but that's not all - it's also because of our holiday sales, where you can save even more cash over our already guaranteed lowest prices in the world!

 

From our Region-Free Blu-ray and DVD Players that are ALL on sale and come with Free Shipping to our MultiSystem TVs, there's surely no shortage of savings! We have specials on voltage converters, personal electronics, home appliances and more. It's definitely an event you won't want to miss, and regardless of your schedule, you can shop from the comfort of your own home and still guarantee shipping in time for the holidays. It really doesn't get any better (or easier) than that.

 

What kind of items are we talking about? Well, literally everything. If you're looking to buy a Region-Free Blu-ray Player, you can pickup the Samsung BD-H5900 for just $199 right now (that's $100 in savings) and it comes with free shipping!

 

How about TVs? Looking to upgrade your home theater or purchase an extra TV for the bedroom? Do it with style! Get this 40" MultiSystem Samsung TV for just $495, or this impressive and stylish 60" 3D Smart TV with Wi-Fi by Sharp for just $1,770 right now!

 

If you already have a TV you like, be sure to check out our huge inventory of 220 volt home theater products and audio/video receivers - many are being offered at insanely low prices but only for the holiday season!

 

And if you're looking for something to help utilize foreign electronics overseas, we even have some huge savings on voltage converters and transformers, with 15% of our diamond series models! You can't afford to miss out on these deals.

 

We even have saving on kitchen and home appliances, like this Sharp Stainless Steel Microwave with Grill for just $135 (a $95 savings).

 

Whatever you're looking for, it's probably on sale and ready to ship before the holidays, but only of you order soon! Visit 220-Electronics today and browse our huge inventory while the prices are hot!

 

What are Multi-system, Multi-Region, Region Free and Code-Free Electronics?

In the electronics world, devices are manufactured specifically for the area in which they're to be sold. From the device's labels and packaging to the default language and even retail price, there are many variations from country to country on what is essentially the exact same product. Additionally, these devices are manufactured to meet the specific requirements or regulations of these various countries, with one of the major factors being voltage compliance. Since different countries have different voltage standards (ranging from 110 volts to 240 volts) the electronics sold in any given country must be compatible with that country's voltage.

 

Multi-System and Multi-Region

When someone refers to "multi-system" or "multi-region", they're speaking of a device that can operate in foreign areas - usually because of its special voltage capability. Typically the device has been modified to operate at any voltage due to internal modifications. Common examples are TVs, DVD & Blu-ray Players, Stereo Receivers and other common items that might be taken along when moving, relocation or traveling abroad.

 

Aside from the modifications that allow the device to operate at any voltage, there are also other changes in some cases. There are 3 major video formats used throughout the world - these are PAL, NTSC and SECAM. In order to use another video component with the TV such as a DVD or Blu-ray Player, both units need to use the same video format. While compatibility can be accomplished via an external converter, the best models will come with internal video converters which is the easiest option.

 

Region-Free and Code-Free

While DVD & Blu-ray players could fall into the multi-system category, they are more commonly referred to as being "region-free" or "code-free". The difference in names is mostly due to the fact that these types of devices are not only designed for a specific voltage, but also coded to only play discs that originate from the player's native region of sale. While there are many reasons for this which we won't get into, these types of devices need to be unlocked in order to play discs from outside regions.

 

When utilizing a region-free DVD or Blu-ray player, there is no issue with voltage OR with playing discs from foreign countries. Some people purchase region-free or code-free players for traveling while others purchase them for the purpose of playing foreign discs in their native country - this is common with people who are collectors and enjoy watching foreign movies or those who purchase discs from overseas while vacationing or via the internet.

 

It's advised that if you're using a TV that's not compatible with PAL, NTSC or SECAM, you should be sure that your video player is equipped with internal conversion. If not, you'll need an external video converter for compatibility.

 

Where Can I Find Multi-System and Region-Free Electronics?

220 Electronics is one of the world's largest retailers of professionally modified multi-system and region-free electronics. From TVs and Blu-ray players to stereo receivers, home theaters, and even 240 volt appliances, we carry the top brand names at the lowest prices, guaranteed. In business for over 35 years, our top priority is customer satisfaction and our low price guarantee. If you can find a product offered by a competitor at a lower price, we'll beat it by 10% of the difference. Check us out today at 220-Electronics.com where you can browse all of our products and learn more about finding the proper electronics for your needs.

 

The DVD Region system is used to control which DVD movies play on which DVD Players. The DVD regions are broken down as follows:

DVD Region Codes	Blu-ray Region Codes
Code  | Where 1  | USA & Canada 2  | Europe & Japan 3  | South East Asia 4  | Latin America & Australia 5  | Russia, Rest of Asia and Africa 6  | China 8  | International Venues, Cruise Ships, Planes, etc.	Where  | Code Americas, East and South East Asia  | A Europe, Africa, Oceania, Middle East, French territories, Greenland  | B Central and South Asia, Mongolia, Russia, and People's Republic of China  | C

 

What does all this 'DVD region coding' mean?

This means that DVD movies from DVD Region 1 (USA & Canada) WILL NOT play on a DVD player regions 2-6. Effectively Region 1 DVD discs play only on Region 1 DVD players, Region 2 DVD discs play only on Region 2 DVD players and so on.

 

Why are there 6 DVD regions?

Movies are released on DVD at different times around the world, typically America and Canada first, Australia and Japan 6 months later, and Europe 12 months after US release. In some instances, DVD movies are available for purchase in America and Canada before they are released in European cinemas.

Due to the high quality of DVD and the movie release system used by Hollywood, 5 regions were established to prevent people from watching Region 1 movies before they were released on Regions 2-6.

DVD Censorship between countries also plays a part, another reason for DVD region coding.

 

What can I do to solve this problem?

220 Electronics specializes in Region Free DVD Players and Region Free Blu-ray Players that play DVD and Blu-ray movies from DVD Regions 1 thru 6 and Blu-Ray Regions 1, 2 and 3. Guaranteed 100%, giving you the freedom to watch any DVD movie, censored or uncensored, without having to wait up to 12 months for the official release in your country.

 

How do you make a DVD player region free / multi-region / Code-Free?

Our custom chipping process ensures your DVD or Blu-ray player plays every region disc available, using our custom DVD Region chip design. Our qualified technical staff modify and test your DVD player 100% with all DVD and/or Blu-ray egions before leaving our warehouse.

 

What if the movie studios put a DVD region protection system into the movie disc?

The DVD region protection system, 'RCE' was introduced 8 years ago, and all our DVD players play RCE discs 100%. So far no other 'new' protection system is possible other than RCE due to the way the DVD region format works. Our players play all protected 'RCE' DVD discs.

 

Enjoy the freedom that 220 Electronics offers, the freedom to watch any DVD movie from anywhere, Code-Free / Region Free!

Our DVD and Blu-ray Players play all movies from all regions, Guaranteed for Life!

Multi-system TV Buying Guide

Multisystem TV 's are all compatible with video systems from any country including NTSC, Pal, and Secam. These TVs are the perfect option for International customers that have relocated to the USA or are Relocating outside the USA. We can offer an International relocation consultation and set you up with everything you will need for your International move outside the USA. Generally speaking, purchasing a multi system TV from us will be less expensive than purchasing that same TV in Europe, Middle East, Africa, Asia, etc. Also we have a larger selection of TVs than you will find in most countries.

 

The TVs we sell can be used anywhere in the world. They support all formats including Pal, NTSC, and Secam. Multisystem LCD and Plasma TVs are 110-220 volts and can be used in Europe, Asia, North America, South America, and any other place in the world. Perfect for International Relocations. We also offer Multi system Home theater systems as well as code free DVD players, and region free portable DVD players on our website. They are compatible with any VCR or TV for viewing anywhere in the world. All televisions are NTSC, Pal, and Secam and 110-240 volts. They can be used anywhere in the world.

 

Please choose what kind of Multi System TV you are looking for. Also don't forget to see our weekly special promotional offers! We understand that you have other options when choosing for a Multi system TV vendor. Our goal is to offer you the best service, knowledgeable customer service, at the best possible price. We will explain what Plasma, LED, LCD, or HDTV will work best for you, and why. If you already have a TV, we will try to provide you with the necessary equipment to use it overseas. We don't want to sell you something and be done with it like our competition. We want to help you buy something and thus earn your business. Please call us before you buy elsewhere and tell us how we can earn your business. We promise to provide the best possible customer service, the largest variety of products for Multi System customers, as well as the best possible prices.

 

Commonly Asked Questions About Our Televisions...

Quick Links

• Pal, NTSC, Secam Explained
• Which TV's Work Where
• TVs for Those Visiting
• DVD Players and VCRs
• TV Tuners

 

What are Pal, NTSC, and Secam?

There are several different and incompatible video formats in use around the world. Video broadcasts and recorded material in the USA will not play on equipment in Europe, for example - and vice versa!

 

NTSC (National Television System Committee)

Color system currently used in North America. All TVs sold in the USA and Canada that are not purchased from a specialty Multi System store such as us, are NTSC. NTSC is not compatible with other color systems such as Pal or NTSC. This means that if you would like to play a Pal or Secam DVD movie on a NTSC TV, it will come in black and white and the picture will scroll. You will not be able to see a viewable image on the TV. Also if you would like to take an NTSC TV to another country in Europe, Asia, or Africa, it will not work. There are ways of making it work by purchasing a Pal to NTSC converter as well as a voltage converter. This would normally cost over $300 by the time you are done, so it may not be worth it for some TVs. If you are interested in doing something like this please call one of our sales advisors at (847) 640-9000 or (877) 578-0587 toll free. The TVs that we carry are Multi system and support all the TV standards including Pal, NTSC, and Secam. So if you purchase one of our TVs they will work anywhere in the world.

 

Pal (Phase Alternation by Line)

Color system currently used in Europe, Asia, Africa and many other places outside North America. This system is also not compatible with any of the others. So if you brought a Pal TV with you from overseas it will probably not work here in the USA.

 

Secam (SÉquentiel Couleur À Mémoire")

Color system currently used mainly in France. This system is also not compatible with any of the others.

 

Note: We do offer video converters that will allow you to convert from one TV system to another, however the best picture quality is obtained only by buying a multi system TV. Normally if you are viewing Pal DVD movies in the USA, our DVD players do have very good video converters built in so you do not need to purchase a Multi system TV. However if you are wanting to use a TV overseas, it is recommended to purchase a multi system TV. Please call one of our Sales advisors if you have any questions.

 

Which TVs work where? I'm moving overseas and am wondering if my TV will work?

NTSC TV's will work only in North America, unless you purchase a video converter and a voltage converter. Even with the conversion, it is recommended purchasing a Multi System TV, which is made to work anywhere in the world.

 

I just moved to the USA for a temporary period of time and want to buy a TV that will work here, and that I can take with me when I move back. What can I use?

Buying a Multi System TV will be your best option in this situation because you will be able to take it overseas with you when you move back. Also the Multi System TVs we sell in the USA are usually much cheaper than those available overseas. So if you purchase your TV here, you will be able to get a better, cheaper model and take that back with you. Also, normally duties and taxes in Europe are only on new items, so if you have used the TV here in the USA before moving, you will probably not have to pay as much in taxes.

 

DVD players & VCRs: I want to be able to play foreign videos and DVDs

If you are not going to be taking your TV overseas, but you just want to be able to play DVD and VHS movies that are Pal or a different region here in the USA you should consider purchasing a Code Free DVD Player that has a built in Pal to NTSC converter. We have many models to choose from on our Region Free DVD Player category page. If you are also wanting to Play Pal VHS movies, you should look into a DVD/VCR combo or a VCR and a External video converter. We have packages and specials on these devices on our site, and you can call us for more information on them as well if you would like: (847) 640-9000 or (877) 578-0587.

 

TV Tuner: What is it and do I need one?

A TV tuner is a card in the TV that allows you to change channels. TV tuners also have different systems around the world: Pal, NTSC, and Secam. Pal M and Pal N are tuners that are used in South America. A tuner's function is to capture your signal through your antenna or a cable service and turn it into a video signal your TV can read. It allows you to change channels on your TV to the channel you want to watch. TV tuners are also in devices such as DVD recorders, VCRs, cable boxes, satellite receivers, etc. Modern day applications usually involve the use of a satellite receiver or a cable box to receive TV channels. Thus, A TV tuner is normally not utilized in these application. However if you have an old fashioned TV connection where you are receiving channels from a roof antenna or your cable company will not provide you a cable box, you will need a TV tuner. If the TV you purchase does not have one, you can use a VCR or a DVD recorder instead. However 99% of the modern day applications do not require you to use the TV tuner as there is already one in the cable box, HD cable box, DVR box provided by your cable company, or they utilize the satellite receiver used with satellite dish applications which are used as a tuner. The short answer is if you will be subscribing to a cable or satellite service, you probably do not need a tuner in your TV.