On Friday, January 27, 2017 at 10:32:35 AM UTC-5, wrote:
Hi all ;
I am planning a vacation to Ireland and shopping for a travel adaptor.
All the ones that I find online state that they do not convert the
voltage - which is OK for the laptop converter - which will accept
240 volts 50 - 60 hertz ; and OK for USB charging ;
- but what about other 120 volt devices like my camera battery
charger - that are 120 volt input ?
Are there better adaptors available that reduce the voltage ?
or some other option ?
John T.

There are 3 categories of converters

1) plug adapters that are small plastic adapters that only adapt the physical plugs and do nothing to change the voltage. You can use these ONLY for devices that can accept 240V as you noted.

2) adapters that are small transformers that weigh about 2 lbs and resemble a large wall wart. They are rated for about 50 Watts. You should use these for small electronics that need 120V and cannot tolerate 240 V. This is what you need. These are the safest to use on small devices. Do NOT use this for a high wattage appliance like a hair dryer.

3) adapters that use some solid state stuff like a lamp dimmer to reduce the voltage. These are usually rated for many 100s of Watts but should be used ONLY with heaters and incandescent bulbs. DO NOT use these with electronics. I would not even use one of these for anything, too risky.


If you have #1 converter and #2 device be very careful. If you plug in a device that needs #2 into a #1 converter, it will kill the device instantly. There will be no second chances, instant death.


Hope this helps,

Mark