wrote in message
oups.com...
Hi,

I am looking to buy an inkjet printer, DVD recorder with hard disk, and
home theater system. The problem is that I am living in Italy
(220V/50Hz) and may move to the U.S. (110V/60Hz) in the future. I
would the option to use these electronics in both countries.

I have the option of buying the products in the U.S., but would prefer
to buy them here in Italy. From a technical standpoint, is it better
to step down from 220/50 to 110/60 or step up?

You are somewhat better off with 50 Hz stuff. I doubt it will make a
difference, but it's the best way to go.

I would like to avoid purchasing a voltage transformer/converter. Is
it feasible to have these products rewired by an electrician to handle
both voltages and frequencies?

Many items run on both anyway. No, if they aren't set up for it there is no
way to fix that and an electrician is the wrong person. HOWEVER, you can get
a 220 line in any US house, in fact most kitchen outlets have 220 volts
already. Bring two or three power bars with you so you can plug it all into
one outlet.

I assume there is some form of a motor in all of these products. Is
this a problem as far as the frequency is concerned?

Almost never.

HOWEVER, the DVD recorder with hard disk, and home theater system almost
certainly will not work in the USA. Italy is PAL, the USA is NTSC. Also, the
DVDs from there are the wrong zone.

--
N