Wednesday, December 28, 2011

How to Select a Voltage Converter For Your Next Trip Overseas

!: How to Select a Voltage Converter For Your Next Trip Overseas

Whether you live in the United States, Canada, Mexico, or on another continent, traveling overseas can pose problems when taking along electrical appliances because of voltage differences in various countries around the world.

When taking an extended vacation, there are some electrical items you just can't live without. Needed items may include battery chargers (for cell phones, digital cameras, and other portable items), hairdryer, electric shaver, radio, curlers, iron, VCR, and DVD player. Without a proper voltage match, you could permanently damage your electrical product when plugging it into a power source.

Understand Voltage Differences before You Go

It's a good idea to research voltage differences before traveling. Some countries have an across-the-board standard of 110 volts while others have a standard voltage of 220. For example, North American countries as well as parts of South and Central America, the Pacific and Caribbean operate on 110 volts. Other countries around the world operate on 220 volts, while some countries have both 110 and 220 voltage.

If you're traveling from the United States (with a 110 volt standard) to Europe, and the area you plan to visit only uses 220 volts, you will need an 110v to 220v voltage converter, also called a step up voltage converter. On the other hand, if you are traveling from a country in Europe that has a 220 volt standard to the United States, you will need a 220v to 110v voltage converter, or a step down voltage converter.

What is a Voltage Converter or Voltage Transformer?

A voltage converter is a device used to convert the voltage of a power source to create a usable - and safe - power supply. Another word often used for voltage converter is voltage transformer although there are actually differences between the two. A voltage transformer is usually bigger in size and is designed for longer, continued use. A voltage converter will usually either double or cut in half the voltage, but some converters can do both.

Voltage converters usually come with plug end adapters that enable the conversion of the shape and size of the plug's end. The plug adapter can be used without the converter if no voltage conversion is needed. It's a good idea to carry with you a variety of plug end adapters because some countries have many different types of outlets. For example, some areas do not use the flat prong outlet that's used in the United States.

Frequency Gaps - Cycle Mishaps

Some countries not only have voltage differences, but also frequency (cycles per second) differences. Many electrical appliances are not affected by this difference; however, some are such as clocks, espresso makers, and other timed products. A clock, for instance, may not keep time properly if there's a frequency difference. Also, it's not recommended to use voltage transformers with heat-making products such as steamers, small electric heaters, or coffee heaters. Some hotels forbid the use of certain electrical appliances, so check with the hotel to be sure you can bring the items along.

VCR and DVD Voltage Converters

If you plan to take along a VCR or DVD player, there are several options. You'll need a voltage converter with most regular video or DVD players. There are, however, innovative code free (region free) DVD players that offer voltage capabilities for 110 volts and 220 volts. These won't need a voltage converter because it's built in. Keep in mind that using a voltage converter usually won't work if there are frequency differences or format differences with the provided television set. Find out in advance if there will be problems so you can prepare.

When buying a voltage converter or transformer, first find out what type of conversion you will need - step up or step down. Most online electronics outlets offer many different types of 110220 volts converters, transformers, and plug adapters so you can easily find affordable solutions when you travel.


How to Select a Voltage Converter For Your Next Trip Overseas

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Wednesday, November 30, 2011

5 Argentina Travel Tips for the Foreign Study Traveler

!: 5 Argentina Travel Tips for the Foreign Study Traveler

Have you ever thought of hopping a plane for spring break in Argentina? Maybe you want to study Spanish in Buenos Aires or learn the Tango in Mendoza? Too difficult, you say? No way, but there are a few things you need to know when traveling abroad. Take advantage of the following top five travel tips for your next trip to Argentina and make it an experience to remember.

1. PASSPORTS - Argentina visitors that are citizens of the US, Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand and South Africa will require a passport for entry. US Passport applications can be obtained at http://travel.state.gov/passport/passport_1738.html, with routine services taking up to 10-12 weeks from the date you applied. A Visa is not required for a tourist stay up to 90 days, for longer stays contact your local embassy for information. In the U.S. -- Contact the Consular Section of the Argentine Embassy, 1718 Connecticut Ave. NW, Washington, DC 20009 (tel. 202/238-6460). For more information, try http://www.uic.edu/orgs/argentina. In Canada -- Contact the Embassy of the Argentine Republic, Suite 910, Royal Bank Center, 90 Sparks St., Ottawa, Ontario K1P 5B4 (tel. 613/236-2351; fax 613/235-2659). In the U.K. -- Contact the Embassy of the Argentine Republic, 65 Brooke St., London W1Y 4AH (tel. 020/7318-1300; fax 020/7318-1301; seruni at mrecic.gov.ar).

2. CURRENCY - The current exchange rate is 3 to 1 for the US dollar to the Argentina Peso. The Peso is made up of 100 centavos. Money is denominated in notes of 2, 5, 10, 20, 50, and 100 pesos; and coins of 1, 2, and 5 pesos, and 1, 5, 10, 25, and 50 centavos. US dollars are widely accepted in Buenos Aires, but in the rural areas of the country pesos are the currency of choice and exchange locations are less abundant. American Express traveler's checks can be exchanged at offices located in Buenos Aires at Arenales 707 (tel. 11/4130-3135), Bariloche, Salta, San Martan, and Ushuaia. Outside of these locations there are very few American Express exchange offices, so when traveling to remote locations be sure to plan ahead. Many of the hotels do not accept credit cards, so check in advance before you assume you can pay your bill that way.

3. CAR RENTALS - Argentines drive very fast in comparison to U.S. drivers and do not always obey traffic lights or lanes. The seat belt law is in effect, though few locals actually wear them. U.S. driver's licenses are valid in greater Buenos Aires, but you need an Argentine or international license to drive in most other parts of the country. When driving outside the city, remember that autopista means motorway or highway, and paso means mountain pass. It is not advised to drive in rural areas at night as cattle roam free and are hard to see in the dark. Fuel is about per liter, or per gallon. Car rentals are available at Hertz, Paraguay 1122 (tel. 800/654-3131 in the U.S., or 11/4816-8001 in Buenos Aires); Avis, Cerrito 1527 (tel. 800/230-4898 in the U.S., or 11/4300-8201 in Buenos Aires); Dollar, Marcelo T. de Alvear 523 (tel. 800/800-6000 in the U.S., or 11/4315-8800 in Buenos Aires); and Thrifty, Av. Leandro N. Alem 699 (tel. 800/847-4389 in the U.S., or 11/4315-0777 in Buenos Aires). Car rentals are more expensive in Argentina with compacts starting at to per day, ask for special promotions.

4. ELECTRICITY - Electricity in Argentina runs on 220v. Most U.S. laptops run on either 110v or 220v, check yours to determine which one you have. A transformer and a European style adapter will be necessary for any other small appliances. While most luxury hotels will have these items for your use, some smaller or rural hotels will not. Cyber cafes called "Locuturios" are common in Buenos Aires and other major cities, where you can connect for an average of .00US per hour.

5. SEASONS - While those of us here in the Northern Hemisphere are used to the seasons that we have come to know, you must remember that things are in reverse south of the equator. The summer months in Argentina are December thru February, perfect for a trip to Santa Cruz. However, Buenos Aires has a very hot, humid summer so it is therefore better to visit in the spring and fall (November or March). If winter sports are what you are looking for, then the winter months of June thru October would be when to plan your next trip.

These tips will certainly give you a leg up when planning a trip to exotic Argentina. Traveling to a foreign county does require a little effort, but the experiences you will gain will last a lifetime. The world is such a global community that visiting and understanding another country's culture only brings people closer together.

Argentina is waiting for you, use the tips above to plan a successful trip there today!


5 Argentina Travel Tips for the Foreign Study Traveler

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Monday, November 21, 2011

Linear Power VS Switching Power Supplies

!: Linear Power VS Switching Power Supplies

Choosing a power supply is one of the most important steps when building a customized computer. Since the building of customized computers have risen in popularity due largely to the gaming community as well as computer enthusiasts, it is important to understand how to choose a power supply for the ensuing stroke of genius that is created as a portal to the Internet. Without the heartbeat of electricity, and a steady stream that can handle the power built into a custom computer, even the best designed customized computers fall into the land of permanent rest.

Linear and switching power supplies are options as well as the uninterrupted power supply variety. The choice comes down to what you need for your particular computer and the amount of voltage necessary to run your new source of pride and joy.

Linear power supply is seldom the answer for customized computer. These types of energy supply require very large transformers and are extremely heavy. Unless you are a body building champion with a need to prove yourself, linear power is probably not what you want at approximately one pound per ampere. Add to that the necessity of large heat sinks to dissipate energy loss and an efficiency of about 50%, linear power options are simply too cumbersome and inefficient to meet the needs of most home computer building purposes.

Most enthusiasts choose something in the switching power supplies category since they want a computer-not a weight lifting championship. There is higher production costs involved, but these options are lighter weight and smaller-meaning they will fit in your house. Another advantage is that these power supplies are about 70-90% efficient. Since the efficient running of your computer is generally the goal, this increase in efficiency has a big pull for power supply choice.

While this sounds confusing, it really isn't. Switching power supplies use AC voltage-120V or 220V-which is generally what a house is equipped to handle anyway. There isn't any sophisticated equipment that you have to have wired into your house for its use. The main difference in the power supply needed comes in choosing the power factor correction and not in changing your plugs and house wiring to be able to use a switching power supply.

You may, however, have to increase your breaker capacity if you already have too much depending upon them when you plug your newest creation in, but that is to be expected with anything you add that uses the electrical circuits available in the average home. Another necessity is protecting your computer from power surges with a properly designed surge protector. Otherwise, there isn't much you have to do to prepare for your power supply choice.

If you are still confused, simply call up your local computer store and ask. Many of the employees in the stores can help you decide and find what you need. Always consider asking a professional computer tech who has experiencing in networking and other hardware areas of computers for the added security of getting the correct information and helpful recommendations that can make your experience with powering your computer an enjoyable one.


Linear Power VS Switching Power Supplies

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Thursday, November 17, 2011

Bellari RP220 Tube Microphone Preamp

!: Brand new Bellari RP220 Tube Microphone Preamp Buy Now

Brand : Bellari | Rate : | Price : $449.00
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  • Frequency Response 20Hz - 40kHz, +/- 3dB Mic/Line
  • 5Hz - 40kHz inst
  • Input Impedance 600 Ohm balanced low Z
  • 10K Ohm line

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Bellari RP220 Tube Microphone Preamp

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Tuesday, November 1, 2011

Operation assumption of a voltage converter. ...

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Wednesday, October 19, 2011

Goldsource® STU-3000 Step Up/Down Voltage Transformer Converter - AC 110/220 V - 3000 Watt

!: Best Prices Goldsource® STU-3000 Step Up/Down Voltage Transformer Converter - AC 110/220 V - 3000 Watt Get it now!

Brand : Goldsource | Rate : | Price : $107.95
Post Date : Oct 19, 2011 16:58:26 | Usually ships in 24 hours


  • Step Up/Down transformer converts 220-240 volts down to 110-120 Volts or 110-120 volts up to 220-240 volts.
  • Simultaneous 3-mode Output: 5V (USB) / 120V (Standard US outlet) / 220V (Universal outlet)
  • Four input voltages selectable: 110V/120V/220V/240V
  • All range fuse protection with two spare fuses included.
  • CE certified & 3-year manufacturer's limited warranty.

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Goldsource® STU-3000 Step Up/Down Voltage Transformer Converter - AC 110/220 V - 3000 Watt

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Monday, October 17, 2011

Switching, Regulated, Or Transformers? Choosing the Right Power Supply

!: Switching, Regulated, Or Transformers? Choosing the Right Power Supply

I received another message from Dan, this time asking about power supplies:

Subject: Frustrated with power converters

So, the past month or 2 I've been trying to figure out how different types of AC to DC power supplies work, since i have a few audio/video receivers that im trying to install PC fans inside that require that type of power.

The problem is that I don't have any power converters that are less than 18 volt DC. I've been researching capacitors, different types of diodes and ways to hook them up but I cant seem to lower the voltage. I've tried a few different ways to hook a resistor up to it and sometimes the resistor starts smoking or doesn't change much of anything. im just really annoyed with spending many hours on this simple project. I'd hate to ask you to explain multiple electronic parts since you're probably very busy so instead could you give me a short answer to this?

I've been to over 50 Google websites and cant find anything on YouTube that I understand.

So it sounds like Dan has a situation where AC to DC has been converted, but he DC is too high to use with a 12V fan. The quickest solution is to find an AC fan (they do exist, but they can be noisy, and overkill for this kind of situation). So instead let's look at the alternatives.

Let's say that Dan has 18V coming from the power supply and he needs 12V to drive a quiet PC fan.

Voltage Regulators

Where you require a large amount of current, using a resistor/potential divider is not always the best idea, as the current levels causing heating/smoking - and that's usually a bad thing. An alternative is to use a voltage regulator - this does the same thing, dissipates the excess voltage as heat, but does it in a more controlled way and lets you attach a heat sink to it. You need to work out the current required by the motor driving the fan, then multiply this by the voltage drop. So if you are trying to drop 18v to 12v and your fan needs 1/4 amp - this would be (18-12) * 1/4 = 1.5 Watts. (Watts being power and equal to volts x amps). The hookup is simple - 3 legs: input voltage, gnd and output voltage.

So your regulator is going to operate like a 1.5Watt heater, and if you don't have enough heat sinking attached it will may overheat and go into thermal shutdown.

(Like the 5V regulator did on my original laser harp design)

So if the power dissipated is not that high, the cheapest solution would be to use the regulator.

Switching Convertors

A better, more efficient method is to use a "Switching" power supply. These take the input voltage (18V) and turn it on and off very quickly (thousands of times per second). The amount of time the voltage is on, compared to the amount of time it is off is called the "duty cycle". So if I wanted to convert 18V to 12V I would need a duty cycle of 2/3. This is then fed through a network to smooth it back out to DC. I recently built some efficient DC converters for a robotics project. It was important to make them switching as they would not drain the battery as much as a regulated power supply.

AC to DC

If Dan wants to tap just the AC power then this has to be regulated and stepped down first. The old school way of doing this is to use a transformer with windings that get you close (but slightly above) the voltage you want. Eg - 110V to 16V would be a good step down. Then the 16V AC is fed into a full wave rectifier array of diodes that do full wave rectification, and then finally through 2-3 large capacitors to smooth the voltage down to something usable.

It's worth pointing out that you can get switching power supply units that run off AC directly. The AC has to rectified and smoothed first, but then the full 110V is switched on and off to generate the voltage you require. The beauty of these units is that they can run on either 110V or 220V unmodified, the circuitry just monitors the output and adjusts the duty cycle of the switching to deal with whatever input voltage you pass in.

Probably the best thing for Dan to do is check out electronic surplus websites and pick up a 12V or 5V switching "wall wart" and then install this inside the case. They are small, efficient, and sometime go on sale for a dollar or two.


Switching, Regulated, Or Transformers? Choosing the Right Power Supply

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Wednesday, April 13, 2011

Power Bright VC100W Voltage Transformer 100 Watt Step Up/Down 110 Volt - 220 Volt

!: Lowest Price Power Bright VC100W Voltage Transformer 100 Watt Step Up/Down 110 Volt - 220 Volt save

Brand : Power Bright
Rate :
Price : $13.99
Post Date : Apr 13, 2011 19:48:36
Usually ships in 1-2 business days



This is a voltage converter or transformer that can be used as a step up transformer in 110/120 volt countries or as a step down transformer in 220/230/240 volt countries. This heavy duty voltage transformer can be used for continuous duty. It will convert voltages of 220-240 volts to 110-120 and will also convert voltages from 110-120 to 220-240 volts.

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Friday, April 1, 2011

normal Issues in Led Lighting - How to select Your Led

!: normal Issues in Led Lighting - How to select Your Led

Choosing the adequate lighting for your home or office can be quite a challenge these days. The most recent correction of Led lighting techniques have made it inherent for all of us to use it as a main source of lighting, other than a straightforward signalling light in our daily gadgets. Still there are a estimate of issues reoccurring when you choose Led lights, and these issues often lead to many habitancy ending up with fluorescent lights on the long run. At Ledcentre.uk.com, we would like to give you some advice in development the right choice.

It is already a huge improvement in our thinking if we do not think the price of a product the only decisive factor. Incandescent lights would without fail win by far, however often we have to replace them, however much energy they consume or are ruining our environment.

Now, let's try to sort this out together. I think we might all agree that unless we are literally bunkered and we need a light from a pound shop immediately the customary incandescent lights, approved or halogen, are out of examine for the reasons previously mentioned: huge energy consumption with the conversion rate of 5% of energy into light (the rest of it is emitted as heat) and highly short lifespan compared to any other source of lighting. Fluorescent lights are much more energy efficient, converting practically 20% of the energy into light, and have longer lifespan of 1000 to 3000 hours depending on the potential and type of lighting. As far as greenness goes, they could be much more environmentally sound. The chemicals in these lights (Argon and Mercury) are highly contaminating.

On the other hand, light emitting diodes (Leds) turn practically 80-90% of energy into lighting, and only the rest is emitted as heat. Their power consumption is therefore very low in order to originate the same estimate of light, and they remain cool, you can touch them any time. They also reach their full brightness immediately, and are the most environmentally kindly lighting explication currently ready on the market.

As long as we are prepared to spend into an Led bulb, we must look at the range of products carefully. What are the most frequent questions about Leds?

1. Do they produce important light to replace your current bulb?
2. How long can they be used during the day?
3. Do I need any extra gadgets or methods for application?
4. Are they dimmable, etc.?

None of these questions are trivial if you are a first time user and you are looking to replace more than one of your light bulbs. Also the point of using Leds is their highly long lifespan. Not applied properly they can lose most of this lifespan, and your money just goes down the drain. So, let's search for these issues one by one.

Do Leds produce important light to replace my current bulb and how many hours can they work?

There are three major types of diodes, the low power ones, the power and the high power ones. Low power Leds are good primarily for ornamental or mood lighting, would only produce adequate light for reading for instance if they are applied together in large numbers. In addition, to keep their lifespan, you naturally cannot use them for longer than a few hours a day. These are best to originate mood a ornamental lighting located at the corners or edges of your home; or for flashlights for instance where you use them only for a few minutes at a time (in garages during parking, at the entry while you look for your keys, etc). Mind that these low power Leds are the ones mainly ready in Diy stores at a low price with somewhat misleading advertisements for those who are not into the topic. All the time check what you buy: the distributors regularly indicate the Wattage of the customary light the Led is supposed to replace. Smd power and high power technologies are both adequate to replace customary light bulbs. High power Leds are suitable for constant lighting, so they are good for market use. The light emitted by Leds also depends on the size of the diode itself, and the chip included. potential chips growth the lifespan of Leds radically from 30 000 hours to 100 000 even. That practically means that these bulbs will only be replaced by the next generation in your family, now, that sounds like an venture worth making.

Do they wish a special application?

The retort is: not necessarily. There are Led bulbs for 220V, which you naturally replace with twist and turn, but there a concentrate of Leds working on lower Voltage, regularly 12V or 24V. If your lights run at 220V you without fail need a transformer / power provide to apply these lights. Applying the right transformer with your Leds is crucial not only from the point of view of operating the lights but keeping their predicted lifespan. Since the variety of solutions is nearly endless, you have to check the right kind of transformer with the wholesaler or the technician.

Dimmability

Dimming Leds needed a brand new technology but is now available. They used to originate Led dimming by controlling the frequency of switching the lights on and off. With the new techniques, obvious Led spots and bulbs even work with previously set up systems for halogen lights depending on the dimming law by development them suitable for important edge dimming technology.

The main purpose of the article is to encourage the reader to think before buying. I have to admit, looking the best explication is not literally made easy by many distributors. Sadly, I find several distributors naturally selling Leds with false technical details, mainly about the light output (measured in luminous flux or lumen) and the operation of the lights, which is whatever but consumer kindly attitude. Generally, the more facts is in Case,granted on the product, the more reliable it is. Try to find reliable distributors by checking their details, the ones with false details regularly catch the eye, like products with the same Leds emit dissimilar estimate of light, or have fully dissimilar performance... Ask them why! Don't be shy if you do not understand the difference, their job is to tell you. Also, All the time check dissimilar distributors, and challenge them with each other. Remember that you might literally spend into this for the following generation!


normal Issues in Led Lighting - How to select Your Led

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Monday, March 21, 2011

Faqs About Voltage Converters and Transformers

!: Faqs About Voltage Converters and Transformers

If you're confused about voltage converters and transformers, we've compiled a list of facts that will make them simpler to understand. Here are the most common questions that habitancy ask, along with the answers.

What Do Voltage Converters and Transformers Do?

Voltage transformers and converters change the voltage of the current advent from a wall outlet so that it can be used for electrical appliances or buyer electronics that wish a different voltage.

When Would I Need a Voltage Converter or Transformer?

Electronics and electrical equipment are designed to use electricity at a definite voltage. If the voltage is too powerful, it can fry the electrical circuits and destroy the equipment. If it's not grand enough, the equipment won't work. different countries have different standards for their electrical outlets. North America and a few other countries provide 110-120 volts in most household currents. Most of the rest of the world provides 220-240 volts. If you travel surface the U.S., you may need a voltage transformer or converter to power any electronics that you carry with you. Likewise, if you bring electrical appliances from overseas into the U.S., you may need a voltage transformer or converter to use them in the U.S.

How Do I Tell Which Voltage Converter I Need?

You need to match the voltage and wattage needed for your appliance in order to power it without damaging it. Every electrical appliance or buyer electronics item has a label that tells you the voltage and whole of amps needed to power it. Many also list the whole of watts that it pulls from the circuit. If the wattage isn't listed, you can presume it by multiplying the whole of volts by the whole of amps.

What is a Step Up and Down Transformer or Converter?

Cheaper transformers can only change electricity in one direction. For instance a step up converter transforms power from 110V to 220V while a step down converter transforms from 220V to 110V. A step up and down converter or transformer can change electricity in whether direction. Usually, you'll have to set the converter for the right setting, but many high-end transformers automatically sense the needed voltage and adjust accordingly.

Do I Need a Converter For Each Appliance I Plug In?

No. You can plug some items or appliances into the same voltage transformer by using a surge protector. But you'll have to do a slight math to make sure that you don't damage the transformer or your electronics. Add up the wattage of all the appliances you want to plug in and make sure that it doesn't exceed the wattage of the transformer. Try to keep the total wattage output about 20% below the top whole the transformer can handle in order to list for power fluctuations.

What Kind of Appliances Can I Plug Into a Voltage Transformer?

You can use a voltage transformer or voltage converter with nearly any small appliance or personal electronics item, along with galvanic shavers, hair dryers, cell phone chargers, Mp3 players, stereos, televisions, Dvd players and recorders or coffee makers. Select a converter for appliances, such as hair dryers, curling irons or coffee makers that have a heating element and pull a lot of wattage. Transformers are suitable for electronics, such as Dvd players, televisions and battery chargers, which have electronic circuit boards.


Faqs About Voltage Converters and Transformers

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