Adaptors

[tatom]

A while back I posted a question about electrical adaptors. I was under the impression that the cheap 50-60 baht adaptors, were for converting 220v to 110v. Now I believe they are just to allow plugs to fit into different types of outlets.

I have looked for gadgets to convert from 220 to 110, but cant find any.

Can someone tell me how I can use 110v appliances, chargers, etc, here in Thailand?

[richm7]

You are correct about the 50 baht plugs, they are pin adapters only.

Surprisingly a good place to get auto transformers to convert 220v to 110/120v is Central department store, not surprisingly in the electrical department. Also try Pantip Plaza, ground floor (probably elsewhere too).

A few things to watch:

1. These converters often work both ways (220 - 120 or 120 - 220) so make sure you have the switch in the correct position

2. Check the wattage of the device you are using to make sure the converter is beefy enough. The little wall wart ones are generally 50-70W (about 150/200 baht) so not much use for anything other than low power devices. I'd splash out on a 500W version for about 600baht unless size is important(!!!).

3. They convert voltage not frequency, so any device with a motor designed for 60Hz (US etc) will likely run slower (synchronous motor).

A final word of caution about these bloody devices. They are auto transformers, which means that they do not have two separate windings so DO NOT isolate the mains. Be very careful because you are consequently still connected to the mains supply, so touch one wire (live or neutral) out of the converter and earth (ground) and you WILL get a significant belt, possibly fatal if it goes across your heart. You would not were it an isolating transformer (at least not to ground) but trust me, it is not. Treat it with the same care as you would with any mains connection.

[Crossy]

Yup ^^^

Do look at the rating plate on your appliances, many items of technology (PCs, digital camera chargers etc.) have 'universal' power supplies which don't need a voltage converter, look for "Input 100-240V" or words to that effect.