Multisystem 4k Ultra-HD. What, when, why and how?
- May 13, 2014
If you've moved overseas, are a frequent traveler or live and work abroad, chances are that you've ran into issues with electronics. Mainly, compatibility - as different regions of the world utilize various systems of voltage, electrical outlets, and even video systems.
While one might assume that bringing electronics along on their travels is a surefire way to prevent boredom while increasing both productivity and the ability to connect, there are certain roadblocks that stand in the way for even the most seasoned of international travelers. In this entry, we're going to focus on a few of the most common inconveniences that most worldly travelers encounter and provide ways to minimize the hassles. Plugging In First and foremost, the main thing that all electronics require is power. You can't do anything without a reliable power source, and depending on where you're going, it can prove more painful to simply get plugged in than anything else. Many countries and regions have differing standard voltages than what you're used to at home and while sometimes this can be resolved with a simple plug adapter, there are other times when you'll require both a voltage converter and a plug adapter. Attempting to use electronics that aren't designed for the local voltage can cause damage to your electronics, the hazard of fire and even the risk of electrocution. Visit this Voltage Converter Buying Guide to determine what you need and how to find it. The Simple Things While some people may prefer to employ a voltage converter for their needs or simply go without specific electronics, others opt to take along products that are designed for worldwide use and work with any voltage from 110v to 240v. Usually, these are common products such as hairdryers, electric toothbrushes or travel irons. Purchasing these products ensures hassle-free use no matter where you are and reduces the bulk of needing a voltage converter. However, beware that a foreign plug adapter may still be necessary! A little research goes a long way and you might overlook some of the simple things such as being able to charge your phone or curl your hair for that important business meeting that's coming up. Entertainment Depending on the length and purpose of your stay, you might be tempted to bring some movies along for the trip. Or maybe you intend to plug your laptop in at the hotel and watch movies from your hard drive. That's a great way to stay entertained, especially if the local TV is filled with foreign shows in a language you may not understand. But there is a slight problem with this - first is the fact that movies are region-coded. Bringing along some DVD's from home to play in your hotel room most likely won't happen because the DVD or Blu-ray player won't play your foreign movies. Additionally, connecting your laptop via a cable directly to the TV may not work due to the varying color formats such as PAL, NTSC and Secam. But there's a better option - a portable region-free player which works on any voltage, any color system and plays discs from any region. If you've got one, you can buy local movies on the cheap, take your own with you and then plug the portable player right into the TV for a larger picture with no need for any type of converter. Check out some of the different Portable Region-Free Players here. Getting Situated Aside from traveling, moving abroad is quite a big step to take and there's an abundance of issues that can arise such as furnishing your new home, finding cell phone service and purchasing a vehicle. One of the biggest headaches is furnishing a home with new appliances as in other countries, most real estate purchases and even many rentals don't include even the basics. From a refrigerator, microwave and stove to washer and dryer, there can be a lot to shop for and as a newcomer, the language barrier can always be a factor in not finding fair prices or knowing where to shop for the best deals. International Relocation services available from 220-Electronics help eliminate this stress completely by evaluating your needs and providing the expertise, along with the products to make your move simple and more economical. Overall, seeing the world is one of the most exciting and rewarding opportunities someone can have, and it's much more enjoyable when the small annoyances can be easily eliminated. For more information on the products and services we've mentioned, visit our website at www.220-Electronics.comIf you're planning to visit the beautiful Philippine islands for a short vacation or an extended stay, your going to have plenty of things to do and new places to see. Embarking on a foreign adventure among a different culture is always enjoyable and exciting, but it's best to make sure that you research your destination and arrive prepared to avoid any unnecessary complications. Before packing your bags and catching your flight to the Philippines, please be sure to consider what you're going to do about using your electronics.
Many countries have varying standards when it comes to electricity. Certain regions, and even individual countries utilize a standard voltage at which electricity is delivered at. In North America, the standard voltage is 120 Volts. Devices that are made and sold in North America are designed and manufactured to operate specifically at 120 volts. However, in the Philippines the standard electrical voltage is 220 Volts. This means that the electronics sold there are designed to be used specifically with the 220 volt system. If you were to try and use electronics from North America in the Philippines, the voltage would be too high for the device to handle and will likely result in your electronics being damaged or ruined. The higher voltage also poses a serious risk of electrocution or fire when using electronics that are meant to be used at a lower voltage. On the other hand, electronics from the Philippines cannot be used in North America because the lower voltage means that there isn't enough electricity to properly power the device. While this can also result in damage to the device from improper voltage, the risk of electrocution or fire is significantly lower. Now that you're aware of the varying voltage, the next step is deciding what to do about it. This depends on a few things, from the length of your stay to the particular electronics you plan to bring along for your travels. If you plan on moving to the Philippines, living abroad or staying for an extended period of time, it's likely that you'll be bringing more things along for your trip than you would if you were taking a short vacation. In this case, you'll most likely be in search of a simple, all-encompassing solution that allows you to use the electronics that you already have. Thankfully, there are devices that do exactly that - allow you to use your electronics in a foreign country without having to worry about the difference in voltage. They're called voltage converters, or voltage transformers. A voltage converter or transformer is a device that transforms (or converts) the electricity from one voltage to another, either up or down. While your electronics are plugged in directly to the converter itself, the converter plugs into a standard wall outlet and then transforms the voltage and delivers the electricity to your devices at the safe and proper voltage that they were designed for. This eliminates the hassle of purchasing new electronics and ensures your devices can be used both safely and effectively. There are different types of converters available, depending on your destination and the functionality required. The simplest, most common type of voltage converter is the Step Down Converter. This type does exactly what it says - it steps the electricity down. A step-down converter is ideal for using 120 volt electronics in a 220 volt country because it converts the 220 volts down to 120 volts. There is also the Step Up/Step Down Converter. This type is capable of transforming voltage down (just like a step down converter) but it can also step the voltage up - from 120 up to 220 volts. A Step Up/Step Down Converter is typically ideal for someone who is living abroad or traveling frequently because it can be used anywhere in the world to properly power devices designed for any voltage. For more information on purchasing a voltage converter, including how to choose a model with the correct wattage for your electronics - check out this helpful voltage converter buying guide. Traveling is supposed to be fun, not a hassle. Being prepared with a voltage converter for the Philippines will give you more time to enjoy your trip without worrying about the little things such as charging your phone or laptop, or drying your hair.Whether you're temporarily working abroad for an extended period or permanently relocating overseas, there's a lot you need to know before taking the leap.
While moving overseas can be highly rewarding, it can also be highly stressful from the perspective of preparation and initial adjustment. There is a lot to take care of before departing and it can often be quite overwhelming. From bank accounts and financial responsibilities to living arrangements and transportation, there's many things that need to be arranged in order for you to transition smoothly into a foreign country. One of the most overlooked factors with international relocation is the difference in electrical voltage. If you're unaware that different countries operate using different voltage standards, you might be in for a rude awakening upon your arrival. In North America, we really never have to consider voltage. You simply buy something and you plug it in. But since the electricity that's delivered in foreign countries often varies in voltage, you'll need to arrive prepared. As international relocation specialists, 220 Electronics specializes in ensuring that you're 100% prepared for your international move. Whether you plan to bring your electronics and appliances overseas or purchase new items when arriving, we can simplify the process and eliminate the unnecessary headaches. Not only do we have over 30 years of expertise with international relocation for electronics, we also have a complete line of 220 volt electronics and appliances that are specifically designed for use overseas. Often, we can provide a huge savings over making these purchases overseas by offering 220 volt versions of the top brand name appliances that you're used to. Additionally, we can make sure you're properly prepared to utilize and electronics that you're going to bring with you by providing advice on voltage converters and electrical plug adapters. Know before you go! Don't waste your money and cause yourself frustration by arriving unprepared. Chances are, there's a lot more to consider with electronics and appliances than you're assuming. We're happy to provide you with a no obligation, 100% FREE international relocation consultation that will enable you to understand the differences in voltage, the pros/cons of foreign bought appliances and much, much more. To receive your no hassle, no pressure consultation, simply fill out our FREE RELOCATION CONSULTATION FORM today and one of our specialists will give you a call at your convenience. Learn how to simplify your move today so you can relax and enjoy peace of mind upon your arrival.