Some may know and some may not know, that electrical plugs and outlets differ throughout the world. We're not going to discuss why they differ in this post but we are going to bring you the information you're after. If you travel overseas often or plan to permanently relocate, this is information that could be very valuable to you. So let's get started.
Electrical plugs, as well as outlets can differ greatly from one continent to another and even from country to country. There are 14 different types of matching plugs and outlets that are commonly used throughout the world. The list below will show an image and short description of each, as well as the areas where they are utilized.
Type A
This is a Type A plug and outlet. These outlets have two single vertical slots and are primary used in North America as well as Japan. However, beware! Although the outlets used in Japan look identical to those in America, they are slightly different. The electrical outlets in Japan have two slots of the exact same size, while in North America one slot is just slightly larger than the other. Because of this, Japanese plugs will fit into North American outlet but North American Plugs will not fit into Japanese outlets.
Type B
This is a Type B plug and outlet. It has two single vertical slots similar to a Type A outlet but it also has a third circular slot for a grounding prong. The ground slot is located directly between and below the two main slots. Just like a Type A outlet, these are primary used in North America as well as Japan. Type B outlets also share the same difference as Type A when it comes to the exact size of the Japanese slots and the slight difference in size with the North American slots.
Type C
This is a Type C plug and outlet. The Type C outlet is the primary style that is used throughout Europe with the exception of the UK, Ireland, Cyprus and Malta. This is an ungrounded outlet with two circular holes and is widely known as the "europlug". The Type C is also the most commonly used international plug and outlet type. Since they are ungrounded, Type C outlets are no longer being used in new construction and in many cases are being replaced. Don't worry though, Type C plugs are a perfect fit for Type E, F, J, K, L or N outlets which are grounded & being used to replace the old ungrounded Type C outlets.
Type D
This is a Type D plug and outlet. This outlet is typically used only in India, Nambia, Nepal and Sri Lanka. WHile this used to be the standard British style outlet before 1962, India has adopted the design as their standard. The Type D plug and outlet use three round pins that are organized in a triangular shape. Although these plugs have been phased out in most other places, they can, on occasion, be found in use in the UK and Ireland, although this is rather rare.
Type E
This is a Type E plug and outlet. The Type E outlet is the primary style used in France, Belgium, Poland, Slovakia, the Czech Republic, Tunisia and Morocco. This outlet is similar to a Type C outlet except that the plug has a third component - a female ground receptacle while the outlet has a protruding pin onto which it fits. Due to the unique design it employs, the Type E plug could be easily explained as having a grounding clip, rather than a grounding prong.
Type F
This is a Type F plug and outlet. Used in Germany, Austria, the Netherlands, Sweden, Norway, Finland, Portugal, Spain and Eastern Europe, the Type F plug and outlets utilize two circular prongs and slots, similar to a Type C. However, the Type F has a ground which is located near the top and bottom outer edges of the plug, in the area where the plug and outlet make contact. Type F outlets are also used in other countries, but only rarely. A Type C plug will fit perfectly into a Type F socket.
Type G
This is a Type G plug and outlet. This style of outlet is used mostly in the countries of United Kingdom, Ireland, Cyprus, Malta, Malaysia, Singapore and Hong Kong. The outlet has three flat slots that are arranged in a triangular fashion. The lower two slots are arranged lengthwise and the single upper slot is in a vertical position. The Type G is a grounded plug and outlet system which is the safest in the world, despite its rather bulky size and shape.
Type H
This is a Type H plug and outlet. Type H plug and outlets are used exclusively in Israel. This outlet is similarly fashioned to a Type B, although instead of being parallel, the slots and prongs are inverted and form a V shape. Type H outlets have been modified in the last 20 years or so to accept the round prongs from a Type C plug. The Type H is also used in the West Bank and throughout the Gaza Strip.
Type I
This is a Type I plug and outlet. It's used primarily in Argentina, Australia, New Zealand and Papua New Guinea. In a similar patter to the Type H, Type I plugs and outlets use three flat prongs/slots, one of which is for ground. The arrangement forms a V shape that somewhat resembles the eyes and nose of a face or skull.
Type J
This is a Type J plug and outlet. Used nearly exclusively in Switzerland and Liechtenstein, the Type J plug and outlet is an original design of Switzerland's very own. Again, similar to a Type C - as are others - the Type J is different because of its ground. A Type C plug will, however, fit perfectly into a Type J socket.
Type K
This is a Type K plug and outlet. Type K outlets are used exclusively in Denmark, Greenland and the Faeroe Islands. The Type K closely resembles a Type C outlet but with an added ground. The shape of the ground slot or prong is not a full circle but a half circle, which makes it look exactly like a smiley face. While a Type C plug will fit perfectly into a Type K outlet, there will be no ground connection because the Type C has no grounding prong.
Type L
This is a Type L plug and outlet. The Type L outlet is used in Italy exclusively but can also be found randomly throughout areas of North Africa. These outlets have a rather odd shape when compared to the others and utilize 3 circular slots that are arranged in a vertical column, one on top of the other. The slots are exactly the same and there is no proper way to insert a Type L plug into a Type L outlet; the ground always remains in the center. Depending on the amperage, certain versions of Type C are compatible with the Type L.
Type M
This is a Type M plug and outlet. Type M outlets closely resemble the Type D used in India, but use much larger pins and are therefor not a match. This plug and outlet system are used almost solely in South Africa, Swaziland and Lesotho. Type M outlets are also used in Israel but only for heavy duty appliances such as air conditioning units, washing machines and the like.
Type N
Finally, we have the Type N plug and outlet. The Type N is the very newest of all outlet styles and is used almost exclusively in Brazil. It uses two slots/prongs and a grounding slot/prong. It looks very much alike the Swiss Type J outlet but the grounding pin is closer to the center of the plug. Like many others, the Type C plug will fit into the Type N as the Type N outlet was designed for this.
Overall, there are many variations of electrical plugs and outlets around the world, which can be quite overwhelming. Luckily, there is a solution. The Foreign Plug Adapter Kit form 220-Electronics has an assortment of interchangeable adapters that allow you to use the plug from any electronics device with any outlet in the world (keep in mind that there are also voltage differences to consider). The kit is only $24.99 and you can
buy it here on our website.
As a leader in International Electronics for over 30 years, we're happy to announce that 220 Electronics is going to be holding a giveaway for a Region Free Oppo BDP-103 Blu-ray Player! That's correct, on December 31st, 2013 we will choose one lucky winner who will receive this $635 value at absolutely no charge.
Oppo manufactures high quality players that deliver top of the line video and audio performance that's unparalleled by any other brand in the industry. Featuring top of the line components and options, Oppo has long been a favorite choice for the home theaters of serious movie fans.
The Region Free Oppo BDP-103 provides the quality and performance that Oppo is known for, plus the additional benefit of region-free playback, PAL/NTSC conversion and worldwide voltage. This means that not only does this model offer flawless sound and a perfect picture, it also has the ability to play Blu-ray Discs and DVDs from literally anywhere in the world, on any TV in the world, regardless of the electrical voltage. There's no need for a voltage converter or external video converter, you can just plug it in and play! And best of all, it's a professionally modified unit that's guaranteed to provide region-free playback.
The Oppo BDP-103 is absolutely loaded with factory features for optimal performance in your home theater. To enhance functionality, it has dual HDMI inputs and dual HDMI outputs, built in Wi-Fi, three USB 2.0 ports, and supports streaming media like NextFlix, Hulu, Pandora and more. It also features 3D playback, 4k Up-Scaling and 2D to 3D conversion thanks to the powerful and innovative Kyoto-G2H video processor by Marvell, which features the latest Qdeao technology.
The BDP-103 supports nearly every popular video format as well, so whether you have movies that are burnt to disc or stored on a USB stick, you can be confident that they're going to play without hassle. This includes HDCD, Kodak Picture CD, AVCHD, MP4, AVI, MKV and many more. Additionally, audio performance is no issue with the BDP-103, as the high fidelity audio supports Dolby TrueHD, DTS-HD Master Audio and more. It accomplishes all this with a 7.1 channel analog output, or, digital optical and coaxial outputs, depending on your theater setup and preferences.
The Region Free Oppo BDP-103 Blu-ray Player is a cutting-edge piece of equipment that utilizes the best technology available to provide outstanding durability and performance that is second to none. It is an excellent addition to even the finest home theater, which is exactly why we've chosen it for this giveaway. To learn more about the player, check it out on our website.
To enter to win the Oppo BDP-103, visit the contest page on Facebook and follow the directions. Good luck, and don't forget to stay tuned for announcements on how you can earn additional entries to increase your odds of winning! Thank you for reading and thanks for your business!
If you're really into movies, chances are that you've already heard about region-free DVD and Blu-ray players. They are players that have been modified to play discs from other regions, read PAL and NTSC format and work with any electrical voltage from 110 to 240 volts.
Usually a region-free player costs more than the manufacturers model because it's been modified and improved which means time, labor and additional components have been required. Depending on the brand and model, you could end up paying from $20 up to $200 more for a region-free version of a player. While the extra cost is a worthwhile investment, sometimes all you're looking for is the region-free capabilities; and this is exactly why we have the International HDMI 1080p DVD Player.
The International HMDI 1080p is a region-free DVD player that offers the same great luxuries as the high-end models at a mere fraction of the cost. Being in the electronics industry, we understand that a lot of people want a way to watch movies from other regions without being forced to spend a small fortune on a region-free player. That simple fact is what motivated us to make a player that's reliable, affordable, and most importantly does the same thing as the players that costs hundreds more. And we did.
The International HDMI 1080p DVD Player is a region-free model that will play DVD's from any region of the world, guaranteed. It features a built-in PAL to NTSC converter allowing it to be compatible with TV's overseas, as well as worldwide voltage which means it will work in any country, no matter what voltage is used. It also comes with a wonderful 1 year parts, 90 days labor warranty and a 100% money back guarantee. Best of all, it's only $44.99!
On top of the immediately apparent value of this player having all of the best region-free modifications at such a low cost, it has a few important common features also. These include:
1080p Up-conversion
HMDI output
Component/Coaxial Output
USB input for video, audio or photo playback
DivX/AVI Format from DVD, CD or USB
5.1 Channel RCA Audio for Surround Sound
Dolby Digital/DTS
Analog 2-channel stereo
Media card slot for MS/MMC/SD Cards
…and more!
We're the only ones in the industry offering a quality 
The Region-Free LG BP325 Blu-ray Player is an excellent value for your dollar. This model does almost anything you could ask for from a region-free player and is offered at an affordable price that provides reliability and quality performance without breaking the bank.
The BP325 is a hardware modified region-free player that plays both Blu-ray Discs and DVD's from absolutely any region. No matter what country you purchase discs from, this player will read and play them all, including Blu-ray regions A,B, and C plus DVD regions 0-8. The unit also utilizes a worldwide voltage feature (110 volts - 240 volts) which allows it to operate from anywhere in the world, regardless of the electrical voltage that's used. Even if you're using it with a foreign television, the LG BP325 will still work flawlessly due to a built-in PAL to NTSC converter that eliminates any need for an external video converter. The player can literally be taken anywhere in the world, and used to play any disc on any TV.
Although the region-free capabilities of this model make it well worth the low price of $209, there are plenty of other options that make it one of the most popular sellers as well as one of our most recommended.
The BP325 comes with built in Wi-Fi, Full 1080p HD, 3D, 1080 up-scaling of non-HD DVD's, Streaming media content (Netflix, Vudu, YouTube, Hulu & more), a USB 2.0, HDMI output, and plays practically any video format out there.
The player also works with a free downloadable app for your SmartPhone that lets you use your phone as a remote control to play, pause, adjust volume and even watch whatever is on the screen from your phone - anywhere in your home!
At this price, you can't afford to not take a look.. Learn more about the 
If you're relocating overseas, whether it be for business or retirement, you can save yourself a great deal of frustration, time and even money by ensuring you have all of the proper appliances before traveling. To better explain this, we're going to take a brief look into a few of the common scenarios that are encountered when moving or relocating overseas or to a foreign country.
Adapting to a new country that you're going to call home has its fair share of challenges. There will be plenty of surprises, some pleasant and some not so pleasant, as well as an array of cultural and societal differences that will take some getting used to. For many, this is part of the excitement - new learning experiences keep the mind from growing bored. But with that said, there are going to be some differences that take a bit of getting used to, which can often be simple things that you might take for granted. Shopping is one thing that's sure to frustrate, even for those with the utmost patience. The combination of a new language, varying standards of customer service and a lackluster selection of the brands and products that you're used to are just a few of the things that pose an immediate threat to your ability to simply shop for groceries. While it can be accomplished, you're probably going to need a bit of patience and a strong will to learn.
One of the most dreaded shopping experiences overseas could very possibly be purchasing home appliances. Even in your home country, shopping for appliances can be a lot like shopping for a car. There is wiggle room in the pricing of major appliances, yet there are hundreds of makes and models to choose from. Factor in the language barrier, cultural differences (which could affect the ability to barter, especially if you're seen as a "foreigner") and currency differences and you've got enough on your plate to make your head spin. The good news is that there's no reason to fret, because there are specialized businesses who are experts in international relocation. These are people who understand the stresses of moving to a new country (or anywhere overseas) and can minimize the hassle of purchasing appliances and electronics overseas by ensuring you're prepared BEFORE you move.
220 Electronics is one of these businesses. For over 30 years, 220 Electronics has specialized in international relocation by offering a complete inventory of 110 volt through 240 volt electronics, home appliances and travel products. From Multi-system TV's and Blu-ray Players that operate at any voltage, to 220 volt major appliances like washers, dryers, refrigerators, ranges, dishwashers, small kitchen appliances and more. 220 Electronics stocks the best makes and models from the top brand names you've grown to trust, and everything is offered at industry leading prices. So, what does this all mean?
Well, lets assume that your current home is fully furnished, and while you've pondered the idea of simply refurnishing your new home upon your arrival to a new country, there's a lot of things you'd like to keep. So you've contracted an international mover, a bulk shipping company or a cargo company and arranged to have all of your belongings shipped overseas - but you can't take your appliances or most of your electronics with you because your new home country operates at 220 volt electricity which your appliances were not designed for. Should you purchase new appliances and electronics when you arrive? Sure, but you're likely going to run into the problems mentioned above, and ultimately end up paying a higher price. There's a better solution.
If you've arranged to have your belongings shipped overseas to your new home, now is the perfect time to purchase all of your major appliances and electronics so they can arrive in time to be shipped over with the rest of your things. 220 Electronics sells everything you'll need to be comfortable in your new home without enduring the hassle of having to shop overseas. We carry many electronics that utilize worldwide voltage, meaning they'll work properly any where in the world from 110 to 240 volt electrical systems, as well as a full line of standard 220, 230, and 240 volt major appliances. Pricing is simple (and low), the inventory is robust and the customer service is second to none in the industry. Our online store allows you to order directly from the comfort of your home and have your order shipped direct to your home where it will be ready for shipping with the rest of your things.
While many people are surprised that such a service exists, thinking they wished they would have thought of it sooner, there are thousands upon thousands of satisfied customers whose move was made easy thanes to our expert staff, everyday low prices and timely delivery.
For more information on how we can assist you with your international relocation, or to simply browse our inventory to get a better idea of what we offer, visit our website today at 
This month, as a "thank you" to our customers, we've decided to run a promotion. Right now on our facebook page, you can enter for your chance to win $100 towards any Region-Free Blu-ray player on our website. Here's how it works.
Visit our facebook page 
Since 1979, we have been helping people relocate internationally with electronics and appliances that are functional for their destination. That's almost 35 years of experience. During that time, we've had the chance to meet some interesting people, some great friends and some lifelong customers. It's been an amazing experience that we wouldn't exchange for anything.
With the boom of the internet in the 90's we were able to expand our business, which is now operated almost exclusively via our online store. The worldwide web has allowed us to reach a vast market that spans across practically every country on earth, giving us a chance to offer our products and expertise to places we never would have dreamed of back in 1979.
New technology has allowed us to provide new and innovative products such as region-free players, GSM cellphones, and other cutting edge electronics that appeal to a multitude of new markets. This opportunity exposed itself naturally over time, in addition to our original customer base which was built solely of travelers and those who are relocating. What began as a single niche market has developed into several individual niche markets, each with its own potential for nearly unlimited reach and growth.
Over the years while our business model has developed and streamlined itself we've had to adapt to many changes. These came from both internal and external influences, some of which we had control over and some of which we did not. While we've been able to successfully embrace these changes and continue to expand and improve both our expertise and our inventory, there is one thing that has never changed and never will - our unrivaled level of dedication to the customer.
We've served thousands and thousands of people over the years by providing products and advice that serves their needs. Many of those have been new faces and many are loyal returning customers. Regardless, one thing is certain - each customer is treated with the same level of integrity and importance as the next.
As business owners, we understand that sometimes the unexpected can transpire - and it does. Sometimes this causes an inconvenience to us, while at other times it causes an inconvenience to the customer. However, no matter how challenging the situation may be, we work diligently to rectify the problem in the most timely fashion possible. When a customer is not satisfied or has become inconvenienced due to an error on our part or that of one of our products, we have never hesitated to go above and beyond to ensure they're appeased and treated with the utmost respect and importance.
While many businesses claim that the customer is the top priority, several fail to deliver on that commitment when the time comes. And while we'd never boast that we're the only company in the world who truly cares about our customer, we will boast about the fact that our commitment to the customer is genuine, proven and always practiced to the fullest extent of our capabilities. It is something we take a very authentic sense of pride in, as we know that without you - the customer - our business would be unable to thrive as it has.
As we continue to do business, explore new markets and set new goals, we promise to never compromise our standards of customer service. We will continue to answer your questions, provide expert advice, and offer the best products available at the lowest possible prices that our industry has to offer.
Our commitment to the customer is a commitment to ourselves, our future growth, our expertise and most importantly, your total satisfaction. Thank you for reading and thank you for being a customer. We look forward providing to many, many years of unparalleled products and services.
Sincerely,
220 Electronics
Voltage converters are devices that do exactly what the name says - convert voltage. They are a simple product that either increases or decreases electrical voltage to a desired level. Generally, they're used for appliances or electronic devices that require a voltage which differs from the standard. Voltage converters are very easy to use because they simply plug into a regular electrical outlet. The device itself has its own self-contained outlets that are then used to deliver the proper voltage to your equipment, appliance or electronic device. The image at the right is of a typical average sized voltage converter.
Typically, voltage converters are utilized by those who are traveling or moving to other countries. Since all regions of the world don't use the same standard voltage, it's important to have a converter if you're bringing a foreign device or other foreign equipment that requires electricity. This ensures that the items can be used effectively in a safe and efficient manner.
If an item was manufactured to be sold in North America, it was made for a 110/120 volt electrical system. If an item was manufactured to be sold in Southeastern Asia, it was made for a 220/240 volt system. Traveling between those areas requires the use of a converter because the voltage at your destination will either be too low, or too high - and attempting to use a product that was intended for a different voltage can result in damage to the product, electrocution, fire, or worse.
Regardless of where you're traveling to or what equipment you'll bring along, there's always a voltage converter that's perfect for the situation. There are simple converters that are available for traveling with small items and personal effects, and there are larger converters which are more appropriate for larger appliances or industrial equipment applications. The size of your converter will be determined by the wattage that your devices require to operate and there are smaller models for just 500 watts and larger models for up to 15,000 watts or more. But the wattage isn't the only thing to take into consideration - you're also going to need to know which style of converter you need.
If you're traveling to somewhere with a lower voltage, than you're going to need a step-up converter because it steps the electricity up to the proper voltage. If you're traveling to somewhere with a higher voltage, you're going to need a step-down converter because it steps the electricity down to the proper voltage. Voltage and wattage usage information and requirements can easily be found on the manufacturer tag or the owners manual of any electrical product. You'll need to find this information first and foremost. Once you know which voltage your device(s) operate at, you'll be able to choose the proper style of converter. Once you know the wattage it requires, you'll be able to choose the proper size of converter.
Some of the more common examples of the need for a voltage converter would be going on vacation and needing to use a computer, hair dryer or electric razor that you've brought along. Another example is individuals or companies who are traveling overseas for work or to perform foreign contracting, as they'll likely be bringing all sorts of power tools, machines and equipment along with them.
Still, there are other examples for the need of a converter, such as domestic applications. Converters are sometimes used in domestic situations for equipment or machinery that requires the use of a higher voltage because they consume a significantly higher amount of electricity to operate. This would be true for certain welding machines, heavy industrial equipment and custom applications. While most converters are portable, some larger and more permanent converters can be wired directly into an electrical system if needed.
Voltage converters are a powerful tool that are utilized all over the world by individuals, companies and even the military.
Visit our 
If you're in Europe, Africa, Asia or Australia and plan to take a trip to the USA and bring electronics along with you, heed this friendly warning:
If you're unaware or uninformed (don't worry, many are), North America's electrical system operates at a different voltage than what you're used to at home (and if you've never thought about voltage, you might not actually be "used to" voltage at all). Regardless, please know that there is, in fact, something different here.
What does that mean?
Well, instead of a standard 220/240 volts being delivered like your used to, our electricity is delivered at 110/120 volts. This difference is important to be aware of, solely because you can't just bring your electronics and/or appliances here to the USA and plug them into an outlet.
Why Not?
Because the electronics sold in your country were specifically designed to operate at the voltage that's native to your country, which is 220 volts. Since your electronics were made for a 220 volt system, they require that specific voltage to operate safely and properly. The lower voltage (110 volts) that's used here in North America is not sufficient to properly power your electronics. If you attempt to use devices in the US that were originally purchased overseas you risk damaging them, fire, electrocuting yourself, or worse.
What do I do?
The answer is simple. You're going to need to purchase a 
The summer of 2013 has some really excellent Blu-ray releases coming up for you true movie fans out there. Sure, there's a bunch of decent newer titles and hundreds of other junk titles that will be available, but we're not going to mention any of those.. What we will mention is that We've checked the release dates, weeded out the junk, and left you with the best of the best Blu-ray Disc releases for the summer.
Included in the list of new releases are some rare favorites, some old & lesser known ones, a few classics that have finally made it to Blu-ray Disc and a couple handfuls of everything in between. We're also excited to say that there's a few good Steelbook Limited Edition Titles coming soon, which are listed at the bottom. As always, enjoy, and if you feel that we've forgotten anything good, feel free to drop us a line and we'll add it to the list.
