On Fri, 27 Jan 2017 08:09:48 -0800 (PST), wrote:

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



Thanks Mark. My earlier searches found only the adaptors or the
big 5 pound transformers - rated for ~ 200 watts - but I went
back online and did find a couple "converters". links below. They
are rated 1600 - 1800 watts - the online description seems to
confirm that they are meant for appliances only -
" most irons, hair dryers, and clothes steamers "
.. not electronics - as you warned.

http://www.canadiantire.ca/en/pdp/ma...1905p.html#srp

http://www.canadiantire.ca/en/pdp/co...8950p.html#srp

http://www.voltageconverters.com/itemdesc.asp?ic=VC200W

John T.