Voltage Converters

[lucidblue]

I'm going to Dominica in a couple weeks and need to get a converter. Dominica is 220-240V and 50Hz. I was about to buy a converter, but then started reading some reviews that said not use it with laptops and some battery chargers (camera, rechargeable batteries, etc.). Then it started to get into converters vs. transformers vs. plug adapters, etc....

Can someone explain what I need or recommend a device to buy? I need it for laptop, camera battery charger, rechargeable battery charger, iPhone charger and hair dryer.

Thanks!

[MxDiver]

The first thing I would reccomend is to look at your electronics, many work on 220 and 110 without the need for and adapter, this was the case with my computer and camcorder. I was able to use both on my last trip to europe. Look at the transformers on the input section if they list 110 and 220 then you are fine.

[Damselfish]

Aside from what to buy, check what things you actually need to worry about first. Many laptop power supplies are made to take 120-240 Volts and 50-60HZ. Same with many battery chargers and other gizmo chargers. It's usually printed on a label or molded into the plastic. So you might not need anything more than an adapter plug. And check with where you're staying. Lots of hotels in the Carribean, even smaller places, will have hair dryers so you don't need to bring one or worry about the voltage thing. And many will also have at least one US style or convertible outlet in each room.

[lucidblue]

Thanks everyone. Looks like everything is good except hair dryer. I'll contact the resort to see if they have hair dryers.

[wgt]

I believe that Dominica uses both D- and G-type outlets/plugs. Even if your gizmos will tolerate the voltage and cycling, it would be wise to carry international adaptors that will allow the A- and B-type plugs on your devices to interface with the outlets.

Sometimes new resorts, facilities, and vessels in the Caribbean have A- and B-type outlets, as they ship these down from the US in great numbers at the outset. Then, as things wear out, they convert their outlets to the local style based on availability. Therefore, be skeptical, even if a facility or agency claims to have A- and B-type outlets, and pack adaptors accordingly.

Originally Posted by lucidblue

I'm going to Dominica in a couple weeks and need to get a converter. Dominica is 220-240V and 50Hz. I was about to buy a converter, but then started reading some reviews that said not use it with laptops and some battery chargers (camera, rechargeable batteries, etc.). Then it started to get into converters vs. transformers vs. plug adapters, etc....

Can someone explain what I need or recommend a device to buy? I need it for laptop, camera battery charger, rechargeable battery charger, iPhone charger and hair dryer.

Thanks!

[fire diver]

Yeah, I bought a converter when got to Iraq, then realized that all my electronics take 220V, so all I needed was a $3 plug adapter. Oh well, live and learn.

But I think that having several of the pllug adapters are a must have for any travlers!

[lucidblue]

Thanks for the heads up. We'll get multiple adapters.

Originally Posted by wgt

I believe that Dominica uses both D- and G-type outlets/plugs. Even if your gizmos will tolerate the voltage and cycling, it would be wise to carry international adaptors that will allow the A- and B-type plugs on your devices to interface with the outlets.

Sometimes new resorts, facilities, and vessels in the Caribbean have A- and B-type outlets, as they ship these down from the US in great numbers at the outset. Then, as things wear out, they convert their outlets to the local style based on availability. Therefore, be skeptical, even if a facility or agency claims to have A- and B-type outlets, and pack adaptors accordingly.

[azdiver]

If you have a target or walmart in your area you can get a set of plug adapters for about $14. I just go on the internet and look up the type of plug adapter I need depending on the country i'm going to and then pack that one in a little zip lock bag when i travel.

Just got back from Cambodia, Thailand and Hong Kong and only needed to take 2 different plugs with me. Everyplace I stayed at had hair dryers in the hotel. In the past 8 years I have yet to go somewhere that doesn't have a hairdryer, even if it is one that I check out from the hotel desk and return to them when I leave.

[lucidblue]

Unfortunately, the resort definitely doesn't have hair dryers, I asked. I found a universal travel hair dryer for $16, which isn't bad. Only weighs 1.4 lbs.

[lucidblue]

We went to Radio Shack to see if they had any universal voltage surge protectors. The salesmen recommended one that has "clamping voltage: 330V". He didn't seem absolutely sure this would work. Anyone know if this is the right type to use? Link to product