Question About Electricity Voltage And Power

[resetdave]

I was in Thailand for a week, and fortunately my hotel had a 110V US Standard outlet. I am looking to be there about six months and will stay at a condo. I have a couple of general questions that I hope can be answered. I know that it is 220V there, but I do not know much about if I need an adapter or a standalone converter.

Can I just use a travel converter to plug my laptop into the wall? or Do I need to buy a transformer to ensure my laptop won't blow up?

Also, I'd like to buy an UPS with battery backup. Can this be purchased at an office supply store? Can someone recommend a place? Are the usual places OK? (MBK)

[KhunG]

Almost all modern computers are dual voltage/dual frequency. You can get a portable surge protector for under 10 USD (I use the Targus model). You said you're using a laptop. It already effectively has a built in battery back up.

BTW: I use this surge protector: Targus-PAPWR001U-Mobile-Notebook-Protector

[richardt1808]

Hi,

The standard power in Thailand is 220V, so if you want to run 110V equipment, you will need a voltage converter for each item of equipment. Normal converters can only handle about 300W which would be good enough for laptops or similar devices. If you want to use a 110V TV or toaster, then you will probably draw too much current and destroy the adaptor pretty quickly, so you'd be better off buying anything like that here in BKK to use while you are here.

If you are looking for converters or a good UPS, I recommend any of the IT malls. MBK should be able to sell you one on the IT floor.Pantib or Fortune tower are 100% certainties.

[ballbreaker]

Most if not all notebook power blocks (external black module that came with notebook) can handle 100-240 VAC/50-60 hertz. Look on yours and see voltage range it can handle. If power block is okay for 220 then you don't need power converter/transformer. Also if your notebook battery is good for couple hours you have no need for USP either. Buy power strip that has surge protector built in and you should be good to go.

[Colabamumbai]

Most if not all notebook power blocks (external black module that came with notebook) can handle 100-240 VAC/50-60 hertz. Look on yours and see voltage range it can handle. If power block is okay for 220 then you don't need power converter/transformer. Also if your notebook battery is good for couple hours you have no need for USP either. Buy power strip that has surge protector built in and you should be good to go.

I am also going to be in Bkk for six months. If the apartment says it has internet access, Do I buy some kind of card to get me connected to the internet. How would this work, thanks.