travel electronics

Region free Blu-ray players are not particularly common; we at 220-Electronics modify ours personally to play discs from around the world. There are some really good reasons to seek out a region free Blu-ray player, despite their lack of mainstream sales. Today we will be discussing some of the reasons one might desire such a device, and the benefits of having one. Just as a note for those unfamiliar with this topic, the Blu-ray region codes are as follows:

• Region A: North America, South America, U.S. Territories, Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, and other areas of Southeast Asia
• Region B: Europe, Africa, Middle East, Australia, and New Zealand.
• Region C: Asia (except for Japan, Korea, Taiwan, and other areas of Southeast Asia)

Typically, discs will only work on devices in a set region based upon where the disc was purchased. Region free devices bypass this, allowing discs from any region to be played on the device.

Play Foreign Blu-rays

This one is really notable for fans of foreign films, foreign dramas, anime, and independent films. These tend to be more niche releases which are, by proxy, often unavailable outside of their respective regions. As a result, one much import these Blu-rays in order to own them. Unfortunately, they are not going to be natively playable on a standard Blu-ray player from outside of said region.

While this may not effect most individuals, it is a notable problem for collectors. If one has (or is starting) a notably sized collection, having to collect Blu-ray players for multiple regions can be a pain- and expensive. Instead, a single region free player can solve this issue at a lower price point.

Traveling for Work or Fun

There are many individuals whose jobs require movement around the world on a regular basis. Doing so can be stressful and, at times, rather dull- hotel rooms can only be so interesting. As a result, some have taken to bringing along video game consoles or their own Blu-ray players. This is where things get interesting- if one has a collection already, this is not an issue, but if one wants to purchase new films while abroad they cannot use them. Over the course of a multi-month trip, this can become a notable concern.

With a region free Blu-ray player, travelers can rest easy, knowing that any film they purchase will work with zero hassle. If a job sends you to Europe one month and Asia the next, their Blu-ray player will function in precisely the same way as before. Relaxation and one's favorite films, as well as newly purchased ones, are within arm's reach when one brings along a region free Blu-ray player.

Moving to Another Country

Relocating internationally is perhaps the most obvious reason to seek out a region free Blu-ray player. Movie collectors might have massive collections, owning hundreds of films on Blu-ray; upon moving, suddenly they have to have two separate players to appreciate their current collection while accruing more. Being limited to the films one already owns is something no movie buff would desire. The ideal situation would, naturally, be to purchase new films from the country one has moved to, and to play them on the exact same device as one's old films.

This is where region free Blu-ray players come in. By taking one when moving, you can keep your entire Blu-ray collection and enjoy it without fail! On top of that, you can purchase new Blu-rays without concern as to whether or not they will work; with a region free player, any disc you buy should work.

Conclusion - Considering Region Free Blu-ray Players

Ultimately, there is some serious appeal to owning a region free Blu-ray player. The reasons one might purchase one are likely fairly obvious. Moving, traveling, simply collecting films- these are all reasons why an individual might seek out a region free Blu-ray player. If you are interested in one yourself, 220-Electronics.com is the best place to purchase one. The Blu-ray players from 220-Electronics have the option to be custom modified to support Blu-ray regions A, B, and C. Modified players from 220-Electronics are simple to use, requiring only the flip of a switch to move between regions and play any Blu-ray in the world. Incredible customer support and fantastic prices only sweeten the deal. If you need assistance, contact support at 220-Electronics.com today and they will guide you along the way!

We have discussed the Energenie Pi-mote in the past. It is a fantastic device which opens up a world of possibilities to its users. We only mentioned some basic ideas in our last article, which really fails to show how versatile the device is. In this article, we will be looking at alternative uses for the Energenie Pi-mote. This device has a fairly clear use: turning electronics and appliances on and off, remotely. Despite this, there are some ingenuitive ways to use the Pi-mote which have been developed since its conception.

Around the House

There are quite a few fun ideas for the Pi-mote around the internet. Some more obvious projects involve controlling things like Christmas lights, air conditioners, heaters, etc. Other, more complicated projects involve scheduling pool pumps or household lights while on vacation. With some effort and knowhow, one could develop a system which monitors soil moisture and executes a watering routine when appropriate.

While not enough to convert one's residence to a full 'smart home', the Pi-mote is certainly useful in such an endeavor. By automating power, or adding remote capabilities to appliances which normally lack such options, one opens an entire world of possibilities.

Web Interfaces/Mobile Control

A fantastic, and not particularly difficult to implement, idea that some have taken to is controlling the Pi-motes with their smartphones. This can be done by creating a simple website, as seen in this tutorial. Following Penguin Tutor's tutorial, one can ultimately connect to a custom web interface by browsing to their Pi's IP address. This will only work while on the same wireless network as the Pi itself, but makes it possible to control outlets quickly and easily through a phone or laptop.

The benefit of this is that it allows for custom power control from anywhere in one's home. If one sets up their website to allow for multiple outlets to be controlled through a single button, they can then control intricate power setups through their phones. One can activate and deactivate speakers and televisions from anywhere, as well as air conditioning units, lights, and pretty much anything else they desire.

Broader Thinking With the Pi-Mote

Perhaps the most interesting project I have come upon so far stems from a software developer named Timmy O'Mahony. This individual has set-up a system wherein a power switch is briefly activated when a specific hashtag is tweeted. This illustrates just how many uses exist for this product, given a bit of ingenuity and know-how. To preface this project's explanation, they explain:

"A programmable remote power outlet switch is a great way to control a huge number of interactive installations and projects: turn on your garden water sprinklers with an SMS, play a horn when you receive a Tweet, turn on a light when your website goes down, start playing music when you enter the room … there are endless possibilities."  -Timmy O'Mahony

To follow his line of thought, perhaps a YouTuber could set up a speaker to turn on and play a brief sound effect whenever they receive a new subscriber. On the other hand, one could set up their home's appliances to activate whenever a specific text is sent out. A sprinkler, as O'Mahony suggests, is one option- another might be starting a group of party lights. Perhaps the party lights group could include a speaker setup which starts simultaneously, making party preparation a breeze. In reality, the applications are wide-reaching and limited mostly by imagination.

Conclusion

As you can see, this product's uses are not inherently as straight-forward as they might sound at first. Obviously one can use it to turn lights off and on, which is a perfectly suitable task. That said, the ideas of using it to automatically water your garden, respond to online interactions, or cut on/off with motion illustrate its versatility.

If you are interested in the Energenie Pi-Mote, you can pick one up from 220-Electronics today! 220-Electronics is a one-stop shop for 220 volt appliances and electronics, with the best prices in the market. Interested? Contact 220-Electronics support today to start upgrading now!

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.

When you're looking for appliances and electronics that work anywhere in the world, there's no better place than 220 Electronics. With nearly 40 years of experience, we have served thousands of customers around the globe and earned their trust in finding the products they need at the guaranteed lowest prices. From Multistystem TVs and Region Free Blu-ray players to washing machines, dryers, stoves, refrigerators, small kitchen appliances and even voltage converters - our inventory is second to none and our experience gives us the ability to effectively help you find exactly what you need for almost any application.

 

How We Can Help

• If you already live in a country that uses 220 or 240 volt electricity, we can offer a bigger and better selection of appliances than you'll find in your local stores, plus worldwide shipping direct to your door.

• If you're planning to move overseas, our relocation specialists can help you decide exactly what you need and you can purchase it all under one roof - we can then ship it all directly to your destination, even in advance of your arrival if needed.

• If you need voltage converters to safely power your foreign electronics or appliances in other countries, we can help you with that also, as we have voltage converters of all styles and sizes from 500-watts up to 25,000 watts.

• And if you're looking for a Multisystem TV or Region-Free Player that can be used anywhere in the world, we have a massive selection at the lowest prices anywhere.

 

Whether you're moving overseas for work or retirement or simply looking for the best deal and selection on 220 volt appliances, you're in good hands when you choose to shop with 220 Electronics. We carry the latest and most popular models from all the top brand names including GE, Samsung, Sony, Toshiba, Yamaha, Whirlpool, Oppo, Panasonic, LG, Vonshef, KitchenAid, and many more. You'll find the same brands and models available in major outlet stores at a better price and with 220/240 volt compatibility.

 

No matter what you need or where you need it shipped, 220 Electronics is here to help. A 220-volt blender, coffee maker, or juicer? No Problem. A deep-freezer, energy saving washer/dryer combo, or a 6-burner gas range? We've got it. A complete 4K Ultra-HD home theater system that can be used anywhere in the world without messy converters and adapters? Look no further. We're here to offer the biggest selection anywhere and we always guarantee the lowest pricing. Visit our website today to browse our complete inventory of products and get the service and savings you deserve.

 

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.

 

Thanksgiving has come & gone. While Black Friday boasts some of the best savings of the year, nothing compares to our Cyber Week Sales at 220 Electronics. We regularly offer a huge selection of Region-Free and Multi-system Electronics at rock bottom prices and we guarantee the lowest prices anywhere, on everything we sell.... However, right now those everyday low prices have been cut even lower through December 4th.

 

Whether you're looking for a new Multisystem Smart TV, a Region-Free Blu-ray Player, or a voltage converter to power it all - now is the time to buy. Shop the most popular models from the top brand names now and get unbeatable deals with our Cyber Week Specials. There's no telling what you might find, or how much you might save!

 

Here's just a few of the excellent deals we're offering during Cyber Week!

 

• 20% off all Voltage Converters and Transformers!

 

• Save an Extra 15% on Select Blu-ray Players!

 

• Save BIG on Various Items like Home Theater Systems, Audio/Video Receivers, 220-Volt Kitchen Appliances and More!

 

Are you in the market for 220-volt electronics and appliances? Do you need some personal items for overseas travel? Trying to find that perfect gift for the film-fanatic in your family? We have what you're looking for! Now is also the perfect time to arrange your overseas move - we can make your life easier by saving you a boatload on everything you need to relocate to a foreign country.

 

We are the global leaders in international electronics, appliances and relocation. With over 35 years of experience, our prices, service and dedication are unbeatable. Make our Cyber Week Sales work for you today! Visit www.220-Electronics.com today and get the deals you've waited all year for.

 

One of the biggOne of the most common horror stories we hear about from international travelers, new expats and vacationers has to do with hair dryers.

 

"I plugged it in, turned it on, and was drying my hair when suddenly I smelled something. I looked over and the cord was melting and the outlet was on fire!"

 

It's a common mistake. Many a traveler has ruined their hair-dryer by using it in a country where the voltage is too high. The same is often true with curling irons, which are prone to starting fires in this circumstance because people often leave them unattended while they're heating up.

 

The problem is this: Most North American hair dryers (and curling irons) are designed to be used only where they're sold - in North America. The manufacturer's specifically produce these products for use with 120 volt electricity as it's the standard voltage used in North America. When you take a product designed for 120 volts and attempt to use it with 220 or 240 volts in a place like Europe, the extra voltage is too much too handle and results in the damage and/or failure of the product. Products with heating elements (like hair dryers and curling irons) are even more susceptible to the hazard of fire because they're designed to get very hot. The additional electricity can cause them to get so hot they will explode, melt, or start on fire. This type of improper use can cause burn, electrical shock, or even death!

 

The difference in electrical voltage throughout the different regions of the world seems like such a simple thing to be aware of, but if you've never traveled or heard someone else's horror story you could easily be unaware of the hazard. The good news is that if you've read this far, you're now informed. Even better, is that you can learn about the simple solution to this dilemma.

 

Dual Voltage Hair Dryers & Curling Irons

Designed specifically for travelers, dual voltage products are capable of working at any voltage from 110 to 240 volts. While you might need an adapter so the plug will fork with the wall outlet (depending what country you're in), there's no need for a voltage converter/transfromer and no risk of electrical shock, burn, or fire. It's a simple, effective, affordable solution.

 

Dual voltage hair dryers and curling irons are available from your favorite brands in the most popular types and styles. The cost is only a couple dollars more for dual-voltage models, and they'll also work perfectly in a boat, yacht, or RV - all of which utilize 220-volt electricity. Check out dual voltage hair dryers today and leave the worries behind on your next vacation. You'll look good, feel good, and best of all you won't burn your place down!