sarge56

I was thinking of taking to Italy with me, an extension cord with 3 outlets so that I can plug just it into my convertor and still be able to charge my phone, my laptop and my camera at one time.

Will this work? I'm afraid of "over-extending" the power usage, if you know what I mean. (I've heard some horror stories about not being able to use the toaster and the hair dryer at the same time.)

Does this sound like a good idea? Anyone?

Thanks!!

greg

The type of devices you are talking about are such low power devices, and you don't need to worry about overloading the cord.

Also, the type of device you mentioned are usually dual voltage and you don't need an expensive and heavy "converter." You only need an adapter.

The adapter is cheap and looks like this:

http://www.amazon.com/American-Europ...8276456&sr=8-3

Look at the charger for each of your device and post here what they say. It looks something like this:

Input: AC100-240 50-60hz.

Many people post here asking whether their electronic devices would work in Europe without posting what kind of electrical input the devices can accept. All it takes is to post the electrical spec listed on the label. They are usually found close to regulatory compliance symbols such as "UL".

Alec

First check whether you need a step-down transformer (converter) to charge your appliances, as most nowadays are universal voltage (look for an indication like 100-240V stamped on the charger). Then all you need is a US multi-outlet extension cord fitted with European continental adaptor for two round pins (Italy doesn't normally use the third earth hole, like France). You won't overload as chargers use miniscule power. Just check that your extension cord can handle 230V supply.

logos999

US extension cords just like any other extension cords are illegal to use unless they're double shielded and rated for 230V. But who cares...

ira

Hi S,

Make sure that your cord is suitable for 220V.

ParisAmsterdam

The devices you mention all use such a small amount of power there is no problem with connecting all 3.

BUT... as has been mentioned, get a proper cord! Not just any old cord will do. I was on the http://www.magellans.com site the other day and noticed this:

http://www.magellans.com/store/Adapt...orsEA104?Args=

Chances are 99.9% that you do not need any kind of voltage converter as yours should be able to use European power. Follow Alec's advice to check.

kybourbon

Unless you particularly need the extension part, you could just take an outlet plug that lets you plug in three things. Plug your Italy plug adapter in and then this (or a similar type, but this one grounds).
http://www.amazon.com/54203-Heavy-3-.../ref=pd_cp_e_3

This one is similar (still has 3 plugs), but is smaller.
http://www.amazon.com/58368-3-Ground.../ref=pd_cp_e_1

A_Brit_In_Ischia

Sarge, I don't know how different they might be, but under my desk there's still a similar arrangement that we brought with us from England in 2003, powering a whole bunch of computer stuff.

Amazing how long some things last!

When we first arrived, half the appliances were running that way until I slowly worked my way round, swapping the plugs.

Peter

scatcat

Has anyone on the forum used the charging pad to recharge several things at one time? I haven't read much about them, but it sounds like it would save hauling around a lot of cords. The adapters appear to be small. It sounds too good to be true, so I'm sure I'm not understanding the functions.

spaarne

Here is an explanation of electricity in Europe, http://tinyurl.com/2y9zvv. I suggest that you not plug in anything in Europe that is not rated for 240 volts. You have too much to lose.

scatcat: what is *the charging pad?*

scatcat

It is a pad on which multiple mobile devices can be charged at the same time. You must have the adapter for each unit, but they are small. I'm not sure if cameras are included as possible units to charge. I've only seen it on tv, but it sounds great. I'm going to check it out this week when I go to Dallas.

nukesafe

Well, the multiple plugs are fine and dandy, but I always like to bring an actual extension cord. Usually the only plug in many older hotels and apartments are hidden somewhere behind an chest of drawers or other inaccessible place, and the cord on my lap top or cell phone charger will not reach. What a PITA! With an extension cord I can place the device somewhere I can actually reach it.

BTW, no danger of overloading an extension cord made to carry 110 volt current with 220 volt. The higher the voltage, the thinner the wires can be -- more or less. I know it startled me when I first saw how European homes were wired. It looked to me as if they had used bell cord wiring.

spaarne

<i>BTW, no danger of overloading an extension cord made to carry 110 volt current with 220 volt. The higher the voltage, the thinner the wires can be -- more or less.</i>

That's true. But the problem can be with the wire insulation.

nukesafe

Point taken, spaarne. I HATE getting nipped by 110 volts, but a 220 volt zap is no longer funny at ALL!

Still, I think a modern U.S. extension cord should have enough insulation to be safe for the kind of use we are talking about, don't you?

StuDudley

If you take an extension cord with you and find out that the outlet near where you want to use your hair dryer is too far away - don't use the extension cord for that purpose. I thought it would be a clever idea to take an extension cord for the hair dryer. Every time we fired up the dryer, the in-line circuit breaker on the dryer tripped. We had to wait several micutes to try it again - and it tripped again. After removing the extension cord, it worked fine.

Stu Dudley

sarge56

Wow, thanks all!!!

kybourbon- excellent point. I already have one of those triple plugs for Christmas stuff!

However, I do like the idea that an extension cord might allow me to reach all my stuff if the outlets are in odd places or far enough away from a table or dresser that they are rendered useless.

Thanks, all. I will make sure that whatever I take is rated at least 220.

Youse guys rock!!!

J62

You won't find a 220V rating written anywhere on most US extension cords. They are designed for use in the US, and not intended to be sold where the voltage is 220V.

In the US extension cords should carry the Underwriters Labs (UL) mark, signifying that they've been tested to UL standards. Those standards are that the insulation must be ok to around 600V or thereabouts.

Logos bring up the legal point that if an item doesn't carry the European seal of approval (CE marking) then it isn't ok to use them in Europe. His point of law is valid. The European standard for insulation (shielding) is different than the UL/US standard. I'm not going to argue it's better or worse - just different.

Nukesafe's comments about being able to use a thinner wire at 220V is also correct. You will draw a lot less current at 220V compared to 110V, so the risk of wires overheating is lower, so it's the insulation that's the question.

Based on my own understanding of electricity and UL requirements I am comfortable using my UL approved US extension cord when I travel to Europe. I never use an extension cord for anything that is made to generate heat. Hot pot, iron, hair dryer, etc. I only use it for electronics like cell phone, computer, camera. All of those items I have are rated for 100-240V.

tomboy

Why not buy an extension cord in Europe?
Save room in suitcase, have room for more stuff
No risk of fire

spaarne

tomboy, you are brilliant.

A_Brit_In_Ischia

It would of course have Italian sockets, like these adaptors...

http://www.pbase.com/isolaverde/image/131177810

You'd need an US/Italian adaptor for each appliance you wanted to plug in...

Peter