<h2>
<strong>Electricity Converters and Transformers</strong></h2>
If you’re traveling with certain devices, such as older hair dryers and irons, you may also need a voltage converter or transformer.<br />
The world runs on two types of electricity: 110/125V or 220/240V. North American devices run on 110/125V electricity while the majority of the world runs on 220/240V. Converters and transformers change the voltage of electricity to match the voltage of your device.<br />
<h3>
<strong>How to Determine if You Need a Transformer or Converter</strong></h3>
The label on your device will help determine if a voltage converter or transformer is necessary. This label may be: a) affixed directly to the back of the device; b) on the AC transformer box of the power supply lead; or c) molded into the plastic on the plug. It is often in very small print.<br />
The INPUT line contains the key information—whether the voltage (V) is single, dual or multi.<br />
<strong>Single-voltage</strong> items have a small voltage range (such as 100–120V). These small ranges are designed to accommodate voltage fluctuations only and will not accommodate a 220V power supply. Single-voltage devices include older appliances, such as hair dryers and irons.<br />
<strong>Dual-voltage</strong> devices use a slash to separate the 2 voltages. Example: 120V/240V. Common dual-voltage devices include newer hair dryers, electric shavers and toothbrushes, irons, coffee makers and tea kettles. These do not require a transformer or converter.<br />
<strong>Multi-voltage</strong> items use a dash to indicate the range of voltages. Example: 100–240V. Common multi-voltage devices include laptops, e-readers, tablets, smartphones, cell phones, MP3 players, cameras and battery chargers. These do not require a transformer or converter.<br />
<h3>
<strong>Converter or Transformer?</strong></h3>
Single-voltage <strong>electrical</strong> devices (ones that use heating elements or mechanical motors) can use a converter or a transformer.<br />
Single-voltage <strong>electronic</strong> devices (ones that use chips, circuits or electronic motors) require a transformer.<br />
Good news: Many converters operate as both a converter for high-watt electrical devices <strong>and</strong> a transformer for low-watt electronic devices.<br />
Watts (W) is the amount of power a device uses. Low watts range up to 25W or 50W, depending on the converter. This would be typical of small personal electronics. Electrical heating units will require a “high” setting as they may consume 1000W to 2000W.<br />
Make sure to check the product specifications on your devices and make certain that your converter is rated for the specified power.<br />
<h3>
<strong>Device Conversion Chart</strong></h3>
If your device is rated for a single voltage (such as 110V), and this is different than the power supply at your destination (such as 220V), you will need a voltage converter or transformer.<br />
<table border="1" style="width:527px;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="width:155px;">
<strong>Device and Type of Voltage (INPUT)</strong></td>
<td style="width:167px;">
<strong>Power Supply in Destination Country</strong></td>
<td style="width:96px;">
<strong>Converter Needed?</strong></td>
<td style="width:108px;">
<strong>Transformer Needed?</strong></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width:155px;">
<strong>Electrical</strong>, single: 110, 115, 120, 125V</td>
<td style="width:167px;">
220, 230, 240V</td>
<td style="width:96px;">
Yes, or a transformer</td>
<td style="width:108px;">
Yes, or a converter</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width:155px;">
<strong>Electronic</strong>, single: 110, 115, 120, 125V</td>
<td style="width:167px;">
220, 230, 240V</td>
<td style="width:96px;">
No</td>
<td style="width:108px;">
Yes</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<h3>
</h3>
<br />
<p style="text-align: right;">
JimLin<br />
2017-05-05<br />
<br />
</p>
<p style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color:#fff0f5;"><span style="background-color:#f00;"> Disclaimer: This article comes from individual, KRECO has the right of final interpretation. </span></span></p>
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