Do You Need an Electrical Adapter When Traveling Overseas?

!: Do You Need an Electrical Adapter When Traveling Overseas?

Technology has played a major part in making the world seem like a much smaller place. However, with "globalization" there seems to be a lack of "standardization" when it comes to electricity. The electrical standards used to power that technology hasn't changed much since the national standards were originally created in each country. If you've traveled abroad, it becomes quite obvious the the plugs for your gadgets and appliances don't fit in the outlets oversees. The differences are actually more than the shape. The United States and most of the Western hemisphere use electrical systems that operate at 110-120 volts. Most other countries use 220-240 volts as a standard. To add to that, the 110 volt systems have a 60Hz cycle while most of the 220 volt systems operate at 50Hz. This difference in cycles per second is not normally an issue, but it can make certain items like electric clocks run faster or slower depending on the cycle. Let's start first with what you might need to take with you when you travel abroad:

Adapters Converters Transformers

Many people interchange the terminology thinking that they are all one and the same, but quite the opposite is true.

Adapters are nothing more than a connector that changes the shape of the plug to match the outlet. It doesn't change the voltage in any way. Use an adapter if the shape is the only difference between your equipment and the electrical system you are using. Unsure? Check your equipment! Some items are manufactured with the ability to work with either 110v or 220v. A common example are the power supplies for laptops. Most are "smart" and will work with either 110v or 220v and you can just use an adapter to fit the plug to the outlet. It is always wise however, to double check with the manufacturer if you have any doubts. If your device is not dual voltage, then you will need a converter or transformer.

Converters take the 220v received from a source and rapidly cut it on and off to approximate 110v. Converters are not good for anything that is going to be plugged in for more than a few minutes and are definitely not to be used with any electronic equipment. The rule of thumb is, if it has an electronic chip in it, don't use a converter. Electronic items should be used with transformers. Remember that most laptop power supplies have this built in and you only need the adapter for the shape of the plug.

Transformers actually reduce the voltage of the electricity going through it. Converters only approximate 110v and therefore just limit and the amount of electricity. This is a big difference between the two. Also, if you are stepping up from 110v to 220v you should use a transformer.

The last thing you want on your trip is a burned-out curling iron, clock that runs too fast, or a expensive electronic device that is no longer usable. Understand the terminology and take a close look at the electrical items you'll be taking on your trip to ensure you have the exact accessory needed.

Do You Need an Electrical Adapter When Traveling Overseas?

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How To Use Your Electrical Appliances Abroad

!: How To Use Your Electrical Appliances Abroad

Hair Dryers, Curling Irons & Electrical Appliances 101

If you and your hair dryer are inseparable then there are a few things you need to learn about the usage of it before taking it overseas.

First you want to ask yourself---do you really need it? Most hotels have hairdryers and irons in their rooms, and almost every city now has internet cafes where you can access your email. Appliances are heavy, take a lot of space and likely to go unused in hot humid weather.

If you find you still would like to take your electrical appliances with you then you need to make sure you understand converters and adapters.

Converters:

Most American appliances operate on 110-120 volts, while the majority of the rest of the world operates on 220--240 volts. Before you take your appliances abroad, check the owners manual to see if your appliance is already programmed to operate in both 110-220 voltage systems (most modern Computers already are automatically and many items such as travel hairdryers have a switch you can flip to change the voltage). If the item is then you do not need a converter, if it is not then you will have to obtain a converter.

For a detailed brake down of the exact voltage requirements around the world visit current Currant Solutions at http://www.currentsolutions.com

Adapters:

In order for your appliance plugs to fit into the electrical outlets you will need an adapter. Adapters do not change the voltage of an appliance only the plug shape. Adapters are cheap and readily available at any travel store. When you go to purchase an adapter the adapter will be labeled with the country/continent that it is meant for.

Where to Buy:

Any travel store will have a basic travel converter and adapter set for around -40. Individual adapters usually sell for around .

Another option is purchasing the items online at an online travel store such as:
Magellean's Travel Store: http://www.magellans.com

For further travel tips visit Glamour Getaways at http://www.glamourgetaways.com

How To Use Your Electrical Appliances Abroad

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