Tagged with 'voltage converter'

Voltage converters are an integral part of moving or traveling around the world. These are devices which allow you to either 'step up' the voltage of devices, or 'step down' their voltage. They are fantastically useful tools to have for several reasons, which we will discuss today. We also have a guide on our website that covers this topic in-depth, if you feel inclined to read more.

Voltages Around the World

First, it is crucial to understand what voltage converters do and why. Voltage standards vary based upon where one is located. The most common are 110/120 volts in North America and parts of South America, and 220-240 Volts in Europe, Asia, Africa, and Australia. There are cases wherein these voltages are not the standard, however, they are by far the most common worldwide.

[caption id="attachment_1604" align="aligncenter" width="584"] Voltages around the world.[/caption]

As a result of this distinction, some electronics will work without issue in certain countries while not functioning properly in others. Specifically, when appliances from 110 volt countries need to be used in 220 volt countries, a "Step-Up" voltage converter is needed. When appliances from 220 volt countries need to be used in 110 volt countries, a "Step-Down" converter is required.

[caption id="attachment_1610" align="aligncenter" width="231"] Step-Up vs Step-Down, visualized.[/caption]

Why Would I Purchase Voltage Converters?

There are numerous reasons one might be in need of a voltage converter, so we will only be discussing a few prominent ones. Traveling internationally for work or pleasure while taking one's personal devices from home often necessitates the use of a voltage converter. It is also of notable importance for those who are relocating permanently to another country whose standard voltage differs. This allows those who move to keep and continue to use devices and appliances they already own. Relocating in this way can save substantial amounts of money in the long-run.

Finally, voltage converters are highly useful for those who collect electronics or appliances from other countries. For example, a vinyl player from England will not function appropriately when used in the United States without a proper converter. The same could be said of a video game console, television, refrigerator, or microwave. When importing devices, this is necessary to keep in mind to avoid your purchases being rendered useless.

Region Free Electronics

220-Electronics.com specializes in modifying devices to make them function worldwide. If you are moving and would like to have electronics or appliances which function outside of the country you currently live in, it is worth looking into region-free devices. This modification works by swapping voltages at the press of a switch, skipping between 110-220-240 volts without issue. If you are relocating temporarily or long-term, contact the experts at 220-Electronics.com today to receive assistance in your move! If you are interested in this topic then please check out our in-depth guide at 220-Electronics.com.

As you may or may not know, the standards for electrical voltage vary from country to country and region to region. Depending where in the world you live, you may find anything from 110 volts to 240 volts being delivered to your home. Since electronics sold locally are always compatible with the local voltage, we never really notice (or need to notice) differences until we travel overseas, relocate, or work abroad. It's during those times of going abroad that the voltage differences play a part in our plans, and therefor we have to be prepared.

 

In United States and the rest of North America (including Canada and Mexico), the standard voltage is 120 volts. All electronics and electrical devices - with the exception of some commercial equipment and machinery - are designed to work on the 120 volt electrical grid. If you're moving from North America to Europe for example, your electronics will not be compatible with the 220 volt standard electricity there. The higher voltage will not only damage your 110 volt devices, but using them can result in fire or electrical shock. There are two options in this situation. The first is leaving your electronics behind and purchasing new items when you arrive in your destination country. The second option is to take your electronics along with you and simply purchase a step-down voltage converter.

 

What is a Step-down Voltage Converter?

A step-down voltage converter is a rather simple device that plugs directly into a wall outlet and changes the voltage from 220 volts (or 240 volts) down to 120 volts. Since the electricity is being decreased, it's called a "step-down" converter because it literally steps the voltage downwards. The opposite converter - which could be used to power European electronics in North America - is called a step-up converter. Voltage converters are affordable, efficient, safe to use, and often more economical than purchasing new electronics and appliances. Not only do step-down voltage converters work for people traveling to foreign lands, but they're also popular among the locals of 220-volt countries who wish to purchase appliances and/or electronics which are only available from 120-volt countries.

 

How Much Do Step-down Converters Cost, and Where Can I Buy One?

Step-down voltage converters are relatively inexpensive. The price and availability generally depends on the size you'll need, and the size you'll need is dependent of the wattage required to run your electronics or appliances. Since a refrigerator uses significantly higher wattage than a LED TV, you'll need a step-down converter with a larger capacity for the refrigerator than you would for a TV. The general rule is to purchase a converter that is rated for 2 to 3 times the wattage of your device(s) to protect them during prolonged use or any electrical surges that might occur. Generally speaking, voltage converters are available in any voltage from 500-watts up to 25,000 watts. The prices vary accordingly, and you can shop a complete inventory of step-down converters here. If you're not sure which style or size you'll need, you can learn more about converters in our Voltage Converter Buying Guide.

 

Step-down Voltage Converters can be purchased both locally and online, but it's important to choose a retailer who has a history of international electronics as they'll be more inclined to identify your specific needs. Once you have the proper type and size of step-up converter for your application, you'll be able to use your electronics safely and efficiently without the risk of damage or injury.

 

Argentina is a gorgeous country full of wonderful sights, delicious food, and a variety of things to see and do. Whether you're living in Argentina or heading there for vacation, business, or retirement, it's important to learn a little bit about voltage converters. These handy devices make it possible to use electronics and appliances from other countries, and can be very convenient when you need them.

 

What is a Voltage Converter?

A voltage converter is a device that converts the voltage up or down, allowing you to use 120 volt electronics and appliances in countries where 220 or 240 volts is the electrical standard. Likewise, they also allow you use 220 volt appliances where 120 volts is the standard. The proper voltage converter for Argentina is a step-down converter. A step-down converter plugs directly into an electrical outlet, and steps the voltage down from 220 to 120 volts. The device has its own outlets built in, and this is where you plug in your devices, which in turn, receive their proper 120 volt electricity for safe and reliable use. Voltage converters are very popular and widely used. Failure to use a converter, or any attempt to use electronics or appliance with a different voltage than that which they were designed for is dangerous. Not only can it destroy your electronics, it can also result in fire or electrical shock.

 

Who Needs a Voltage Converter?

Anyone visiting or living in Argentina who has electronic devices or appliances that were designed for use with 120 volt electricity will need a voltage converter. If you're relocating to Argentina from North American and planning to bring your appliances along, a voltage converter is a must-have. Similarly, anyone in Argentina who purchases home electronics or appliances from North America will need to use a voltage converter for proper functionality.

 

Where Can I buy a Voltage Converter for Argentina?

There are many places to purchase voltage converters. As specialists in international electronics, appliances and relocation, we recommend you shop from a reputable buyer. We have a complete inventory of voltage converters for Argentina here, and a voltage converter buying guide here for helping you choose exactly which type and size you'll need for your application. With over 35 years of experience, you can't go wrong buying your converter from us. We have all the expertise you'll ever need, guaranteed low prices everyday, and we offer shipping to almost any country in the world. Join our thousands of satisfied customers today and get the voltage converter that will last you a lifetime.

 

As specialists in the world of international electronics and appliances we also know a lot about voltage converters. Our classic model of voltage converters have been very popular; we’ve sold thousands of them to a very large base of global customers spanning from travelers and families, to large businesses and government agencies including GE, Intel, Microsoft, Boeing, NASA, US Navy, Northrop Grumman, and many more. However, today we would like to talk about a new type of voltage converter we’re carrying - the Power X Changer X-15 Voltage Converter. Different from the average converter used to power a blender or hair dryer when traveling overseas, this one is intended to be used right here at home.

 

The Power X Changer X-15 is the worlds most powerful and portable voltage & frequency converter. It can be used for anything, but is generally designed (and preferred) for home audio use. This converter comes equipped with thermal protection, surge protection, advanced voltage regulation, LCD display, LED status indicator, and a clean sophisticated appearance. All of these features are compacted into a package the size of your typical amplifier or gaming console. The unit features detachable legs, a wall mounting kit, and an Xchange Extension Outlet which allow the X-15 to be placed or mounted practically anywhere in your home, up to 6 feet away from the appliance it’s powering. It's available in white or black, making it even easier to blend in with its surroundings while matching the look and feel of your home or garage.

 

Perfect for high-performance audio, this voltage converter can be used as a re-generator with power factor correction. It's an excellent choice for the safe, secure, and reliable powering of high-end audio equipment. The X-10 delivers up to 1800 watts of continuous power at over 92% efficiency with less than 3% harmonic distortion, and 120v/60hz output with fluctuation below 2%. It features an extremely clean output with no change in amplitude, allowing your audio equipment to function flawlessly each and every time, even for extended periods of high-output.

 

The case of the X-15 provides durable protection against humidity and dust, protecting the sealed solid-state electronics to ensure reliability and a long lifespan. An external cooling fan automatically cools the interior electronics whenever the load exceed 15 amps, or when environmental factors exceed the unit’s recommended operating temperatures. The built-in advanced voltage regulation is another important feature which fully protects your expensive and sensitive audio equipment against power surges and irregularities. This includes under-input as low as 180Vac and over-input up to 265Vac. If the unit ever overloads, short circuits, or exceeds a certain temperature, an audible alarm will sound to notify you. Additionally, an external LED provides visual notifications and temperature status on the display screen.

 

If you are interested in one of the most versatile, powerful, and capable voltage converters on the market - you need to take a closer look at the Power X Changer X-15. It has an unmatched list of features to guarantee the best performance and functionality available today. Learn more about the X-15 right now on our website. You can see all the important details and specifications, plus browse the other Power X Changer models and order your own today. If you're serious about home audio, this is one product that you can't afford to miss.

 

If you’re from North America and plan to go to Malaysia for vacation or to live for an extended period, you might need to bring a voltage converter with you. Why, you ask? Because your electronics are not going to work with the 240 Volt electricity in Malaysia. Actually they might work for a very short time (think 30 seconds) before breaking, melting, starting on fire, or even electrocuting you. And let’s face it - nobody wants that!

 

So what’s the deal? Well it all boils down to the varying voltage used in different regions of the world and how electronics are manufactured for those respective regions.

 

All electronics which are inteded for sale in North America are designed and manufactured to be used with 110 to 120 volt electricity since Canada, the United States, and Mexico all ultilize this standard voltage. On the other hand, electronics destined to be sold in Europe, the middle-east, and many parts of the far-east are designed and manufactured to be used with 220 to 240 Volt electricity - the standard operating voltage of those regions. Attemping to use your North American electronics with Malaysia's 240 volt electricity means that your device will be getting nearly double the voltage it’s intended to be used at. Since the device can’t handle all of this extra voltage, it gets overloaded by the electricity which causes damage (or the melting, fire, or electrocution we mentioned in the first paragraph).

 

Now, back to voltage converters. A voltage converter (also known as a voltage transformer) has the ability to convert voltage either up or down in order to achieve a desired voltage output. For example, in Malaysia where the voltage is 240 volts, you will be using your voltage converter to transform the electricity down to 120 volts so your North American electronics can safely be used. This kind of converter is called a step-down converter because it lierally steps the voltage down from a higher level (240 volts) to a lower level (120 volts). The converter itself is very easy to use - you simply plug it into the wall outlet just like any normal electronic device. The converter has multiple outlets built into it where your devices themselves can then be plugged in. The converter acts as a middleman between your device and the wall outlet to control the voltage and ensure your devices are being powered by the proper, safe level of voltage which they were intended for.

 

Voltage converters for Malaysia come in a variety of sizes based on wattage, and it’s necessary to have a converter that can handle the wattage of your devices. It's recommended that you use a converter rated for twice the wattage of the devices that you’ll be using. For example, for a 900-watt blender you’ll want to buy a 1,500-watt voltage converter. The reason for this is to ensure proper functionality during prolonged or heavy use, and to prevent any issues with voltage surges or fluctuations. Using that same 900-watt blender with a converter that's only rated for 1000 watts basically means your converter will be running hard and at full capacity, leading to a shorter lifespan and leaving no buffer for protection against power surges or fluctuations. To learn how many watts you’ll need, just check the information on the manufacturers label of your electronic devices. Usually you can find a tag on the power cord (or a label on the device itself) stating how many watts it consumes when operating. If you want to power multiple devices at the same time - such as a Blu-ray player and a TV - it’s necessary to combine the wattage of each unit and then purchase a converter rated for double. If your TV is rated at 500-watts and your Blu-ray player at 85-watts, you have a total of 585-watts. In this situation, a 1200-watt voltage converter is plenty to keep everything operating safely and securely in all conditions.

 

As specialists in international electronics and voltage converters for Malaysia, 220 electronics offers a wide selection of converters for a variety of applications, from 500 to 15,000 watts. Visit our website today and browse our selection of quality converters at our guaranteed low prices. We also carry models with built-in voltage regulators for anyone seeking the ultimate in protection for extremely pricey or sensitive electronics. Our voltage converter buying guide will help you determine exactly which type and model is perfect for your needs.

 

With over 35 years of experience and thousands of satisfied customers, you can shop our online store with complete confidence. Your voltage converter for Malaysia will help you save time, money, and prevent any damage to your valuable electronics while overseas.

 

The United Arab Emirates is an interesting and rapidly growing country. As an infrastructural powerhouse and a highly developed economy of real estate, finance and tourism, there are many people who are relocating to the UAE - and especially to Dubai - to pursue their careers. In fact, the majority of people in Dubai are expatriates from other countries and regions.

 

If you're heading to the UAE from North America, it's important to know about the difference in voltage. In the US and Canada, the standard voltage is 120 volts. In the Emirates, the standard voltage is 220 volts. Let's take a look at what this means.

 

Your Electronics Are Not Compatible

With the exception of your laptop (which generally are designed with 110-240 power supplies), your personal electronics purchased in North America are not compatible with the 220 volt electricity in the UAE, and attempting to use them can cause damage to the devices, fire, and even electrical shock. This means that your hairdryer, electric razor, sound bar, Blu-ray player, TV, and espresso machine cannot be used because they were manufactured only for use with 120 volts in the country where they were purchased. The higher voltage can literally melt and burn your electronics and electrical appliances.

 

There Is A Simple Solution

Surely, there are some things you'll plan to buy new in the UAE, but it's not necessary to consider all your appliances and electronics to be useless over there. In fact, you can take them with you and use them very safely with the help of a voltage converter for the UAE.

 

How Does It Work?

A voltage converter transforms the voltage from 220 volts down to 120 volts, or vice-versa. You plug the device into the wall outlet, and the device itself has its own outlets where you then plug your electronics and appliances. The converter changes the voltage from the outlet down to 120 volts - the normal operating voltage for your devices - and allows you to easily and safely use whatever kind of appliance or electronic you'd like.

 

How Much Does A Voltage Converter for the UAE Cost?

Voltage converters for the UAE can vary widely when it comes to pricing. The reason for this is because they're available in different wattages, depending on your needs. While a 500-watt voltage converter may be sufficient for a TV and Blu-ray player, it won't be powerful enough to handle the electrical load of a 900-watt blender, or a 1,800-watt washer/dryer. The sizes vary from 500 to 10,000 watts and can accommodate an array of electronics and appliances in any home or office. For more information about voltage converters for the UAE, see our Voltage Converter Buying Guide. It will help you answer all your questions and allow you to find exactly what you need for your travel or relocation to the United Arab Emirates.

 

Germany is a beautiful country with a rich culture and many interesting things to see and do. If you're planning an extended visit to Germany and will be living there for awhile, it's important to take note of what you'll be bringing along on your travels. If your list includes any electronic devices or appliances other than a cell phone or laptop, you're going to need a voltage converter to ensure your electronics can be used safely and efficiently.

 

A voltage converter is a device that converts electrical voltage, either up or down. Since different areas of the world utilize different electrical voltages, electronics from foreign countries are not always compatible. In the case of Germany, you'll need to know that the standard voltage is 220 volts. This means that the wall outlet delivers 220 volts of electricity. Electronics from North America (which are manufactured for 120 volts) are not compatible with Germany's higher voltage. Attempting to use a 120 volt hair dryer for example, could result in a damaged item, a fire, and even dangerous electrical shock. However, there's no need to worry about that because a voltage converter is a safe and effective solution to using foreign electronics in any country.

 

The voltage converter plugs directly into the electrical outlet and internally converts the electricity from 220 volts down to 120 volts, creating a safe voltage for your electronics. The face of the converter has its own electrical outlets and that's where you'll plug your devices in to be used with the properly converted voltage. This specific type of converter is called a step-down converter because it's actually stepping the voltage down from 220 to 120 volts. There are a variety of types and sizes of voltage converters for Germany, and the one that will best suit your needs is a converter capable of handling sufficient wattage for your electronics or appliances. The wattages available vary from 50 watts up to 25,000 watts. The higher the wattage capability, the higher the price. However, the price doesn't increase drastically.

 

To determine the wattage that you'll need to check the wattage of your appliances. This can usually be found on the manufacturers label, a instruction manual, or the devices electrical cord. If you have a device like a coffee maker that uses 900 watts, you'll need to purchase a converter with an absolutely minimum of 900 watt capacity. In fact, due to voltage fluctuations and to ensure proper function, it's always recommended to purchase a converter for double the wattage of your device(s). A 1500 watt step-down voltage converter would be a great purchase for a 800 watt North American coffee maker being used in Germany. Since you're dealing with electricity, it's always better to be safe rather than sorry. Aiming for double the necessary wattage is practically a must.

 

One other thing to note is that most electrical outlets vary from country to country. You'll need to be sure to have the proper plug adapter for Germany so that your converter can be plugged in! If you can't plug it in, you can't use it and then you can't use your electronics. The good news is that anyone who sells voltage converters also sells foreign plug adapters.

 

Now that you know what you're up against, you can make an informed purchase of a voltage converter for Germany. Remember that you'll need a step-down model with sufficient voltage for your devices. To see a variety of voltage converters for Germany and purchase your own, check out our selection here. Enjoy your travels in Germany!

 

If you're getting ready to relocate overseas - either temporarily or permanently - you're undoubtedly facing a lot of decisions when it comes to your belongings. There's a lot to consider, both in regards to your possessions and the cost of replacing them. Should you bring your things with you? Should you buy new things upon arrival? There can be some tough choices to make.

 

Often times, people choose to sell their belongings and buy new things when they arrive to their destination country. The reasons for this can be that they're not going to pay for shipping their things overseas, or, that they're already shipping certain important things and don't have the space for anything else. But sometimes, the prices you'd sell your belongings for is exceptionally less, often 20% of what you paid for them new. This is especially true with electronics. You're actually losing money.

 

So what do you do if you bought a new 60" Smart TV just 6 months ago and are moving to Japan or the UK? First, you need to take into consideration that both of those countries utilize an electrical voltage of 220 volts, which means that your North American TV (manufactured for use with 120 volts) won't work there. You have two options. You can sell or give your TV away at a huge loss, or you can take it with you.

 

But wait, didn't we just mention that your TV won't work overseas? That's correct, but there's a solution. What is it? A voltage converter.

 

Voltage converters or voltage transformers as they're often called, allow for the voltage to be converted either up or down, providing a platform to plug in your electronics safely and securely no matter where you are in the world. For example, a step-down converter will step the voltage down from 220 to 110, allowing you to use your 110-volt TV in a 220-volt country. Relatively speaking, it's a simple concept.

 

While you may have heard about multisystem TVs, which are also an excellent choice, they're not of much help when you have to fork out another chunk of change for a new TV when you just recently spent over a thousand dollars on one (or maybe much more) less than a year ago. A voltage converter is the cheapest and most effective way to do it. It's financially beneficial and it takes less time to buy one than to sell your TV and buy another.

 

Voltage converters for TVs are very common, and rather simple to use. Simply plug your voltage converter into the wall outlet (using the proper plug or plug adapter if needed), set the converter to the proper setting (step-down in our case), and simply plug your TV directly into the voltage converter. It's really that simple.

 

So, will you bite the bullet and splurge on a new TV, or will you make the smart decision and spend significantly less for a voltage converter? The choice is yours. For more information on voltage converters, check out our voltage converter buying guide. It will tell you everything you need to know about voltage converters for TVs. While you're there, you can browse our huge selection of voltage converters and make an informed decision on what you're going to do. Safe travels!

 

Are you traveling for an extended period or relocating permanently to New Zealand? If so, you should consider what you're going to do about using electronics. While there might be other things to consider before a long trip or a big move, it's noteworthy to recognize that the standard voltage in New Zealand is 220 volts. In North America, all electronics are designed to operate on 120 volts and will not work overseas, which means you can't just take your electronics along with you and expect them to work. Doing so can result in damage to your belongings, the risk of fire, or even electrocution.

 

Thankfully, there are a couple options available to make things easier. The first is purchasing a voltage converter or voltage transformer. These devices are basically used as a mediator for voltage - they plug into the wall outlet and lower the voltage from 220 to the acceptable 120 volts that your electronics require. Your electronics plug directly into the converter and can be used safely and efficiently. There are many different sizes and styles of voltage converters, and depending on their wattage capacity they can be used for simple items or large appliances such as washers and dryers. The proper type of converter used for North American appliances & electronics in New Zealand is a Step-down converter, as it steps the electricity down to 120 volts.

 

The second option is to purchase 220 volt appliances, which can be accomplished before arriving in New Zealand. Instead of shopping in unfamiliar places and trying to quickly fill an empty home with appliances where the selection may be very limited and the prices may be higher, you can shop online for 220 volt appliances and find excellent pricing and the availability to ship your purchases directly to your destination. This method saves much money and hassle over trying to shop for everything after arriving in a foreign country.

 

The best choice to make depends on your needs. If you only have a small amount of items, a voltage converter might be sufficient for using those items. However, if you're planning to furnish your home with a refrigerator, stove/oven, washer & dryer, small appliances and other electronics such as a home theater, the best route to take is purchasing 220 volt products before leaving.

 

At 220 Electronics, we have a huge selection of voltage converters for New Zealand. From 500 watts to 25,000 watts, we have exactly what you're looking for. You can view all of our voltage converters here, or, learn more about choosing the proper converter for your application by utilizing our voltage converter buying guide.

 

We also offer a complete selection of 220 volt home electronics and appliances, including multi-system televisions and home theater components such as blu-ray players that feature dual voltage and are capable of operating at boy 120 or 220 volts. With the guaranteed lowest prices and free international relocation consultations, you've got nothing to lose by visiting our website at 220-Electronics.com and seeing how we can help make your travels cheaper and less stressful. Ask us about our voltage converters for New Zealand or how we can assist with choosing the proper 220 volt appliances and we'll be glad to help. With over 35 years experience, you're in good hands!

 

Are you planning to travel abroad, relocate or vacation to Africa in the near future? If you're from North America, you should be aware that the electrical system there operates at a different voltage and you'll need to be properly prepared before embarking on your trip.

 

In Africa, the standard electrical voltage is 220 Volts, which applies to the whole continent. However, in North America, the standard voltage is 110 Volts. On both continents, consumer electronics are specifically designed and manufactured to work with the native electrical voltage. This means that North American electronics are designed to operate with a 110 (or 120) Volt electrical system, while electronics in Africa are designed to operate with a 220 (or 240) Volt electrical system.

 

What this means is that North American electronics cannot be used in Africa and African electronics cannot be used in North America. The difference in voltage will either be too low to efficiently power the electronics, or too high for the device to handle. Attempting to plug-in or operate electronics devices in a foreign environment where the voltage differs can result in damage to your electronics, fire, and even electrocution.

 

What you'll need to do in order to properly and safely use your electronics in Africa is purchase a voltage converter. A voltage converter is a device that plugs into the wall and converts the voltage from 220 volts down to 110 volts and has its own electrical outlets built into it, where you can plug-in and use your electronics devices safely, without worry.

 

There are many different types and models of voltage converters, depending on where you're traveling. They also come in different sizes which are rated by the wattage they can handle. The size of the converter you'll need to purchase depends on the wattage that your electronics require to operate. Higher wattage electronics will naturally require a higher wattage voltage converter to be used safely without the risk of damage or injury.

 

For more information on how to choose the proper voltage converters for Africa, please visit our voltage converter buying guide. It contains all the necessary information needed to identify the proper type of converter you'll need, as well as the size. You'll also learn about the different plugs and sockets which vary from country to country and how you can be prepared with foreign plug adapters.

 

At 220 Electronics, we sell a complete line of high quality voltage converters that can be utilized wherever you're traveling. From step-up converter and step-down converters to travel voltage converters, we carry everything you need to efficiently and effectively power your electronics in a foreign country. Check out our inventory today! We've been the trusted source for international electronics for over 30 years.