Power converters

Price isn't always an indication of quality. No matter how much you pay some are good and some are bad.

I bought one from Radio Shack in Fort Worth Tx 12 years ago, I paid very little and it's still going strong.

It might be because of a lesser quality, but many converters will say right on them not to be used for "electronic" equipment, as opposed to "electric" equipment. I'm not an expert, but I understand that to mean don't use the converter for delicate electronics like an iPod or camera. Only for converting for using a hair dryer or coffee pot, etc. That being said, many electronic devices come with a dual voltage charger so they will work with anywhere from 100 to 240 volts input. Should be printed right on the plug or charger. Your iPhone should be just like that. So you only need a plug adapter and not the converter.

A teensey bit off topic, but my daughter has a Razr phone. The charger has a Euro plug built into it and it also came with an adaptor so she could plug it in a N American socket. She will be all set in Europe, but if she makes calls that aren't to us, she's paying for it!

As mentioned, most newer electronic devices are dual voltage and only need an adapter, not converter. There is a difference in converters, some merely chop or clip the AC waves from 220V to 110V, which is fine for some motors, lights, and appliances. To get a true conversion, you need solid state converters, usually with a much lower power rating than typical.

Make sure what you need is a converter vs. an adapter. Many (but not all) modern personal appliances have built-in dual-voltage capability, though on some you need to flip a switch from 110/120 to 220/240 V. If your appliance doesn't have that, then you need a converter.

An adapter, on the other hand, has to do with how the appliance plugs into the socket. US cords will not plug into most European outlets, so you need an adapter to make that work. Depending on where you are travelling to dicates what type of adapter you need. Go to a travel store and ask them what you need for where you are travelling and they will make sure you get the proper adapter(s).

I notice the converters in many travel stores say, "for heat producing items only, not intended for electrical equipment." or something to that effect. Apparently they work on blow dryers, curling irons and (apparently) toasters.

If your electrical equipment isn't dual voltage, try an electronics store for your converter.

If they are, you will only need the plug adapter. They are widely available, including on this site.

The only thing we bring that needs plugging in is our camera recharger; it's dual voltage. We may have to add a digital recorder and cell phone in future travels, so will shop for dual voltage.

Darren, to clarify the issue of "Converters", you need to check the Charger / Power supply on EACH of your appliances to determine the "input voltage". If these state "110-240 VAC", then all you´ll need in Europe are Plug Adapters. If these state "115 VAC, 60 Hz" then you´ll need a Voltage Converter as well.

Paul, IMO to get a "true conversion" a Transformer based converter is the best option, as this is the only method that produces a clean sine wave. Solid state Converters should NOT be used with electronic products (these are often used with simple appliances which only contain a resistive heating element).

Hope this helps.

Cheers!!!