charging cell phone in Europe
 

I have a dual mode phone, but can't find information on charging it. Do I just put converter onmy charger?

It really is as simple as that!

Sorry, but are we saying a 'converter' (transformer) is needed, or an 'adaptor plug'..?

Converter or transformer?

I take it your phone is a digital since it is a dual mode phone, so all you'll need is a plug adapter that works in the country you're traveling to. Most of Europe uses the same plug setup, so one should do. Some phones come with the adaptor included, but you can pick on up an most travel related stores and electronics and even some camera shops. You don't need to worry about the voltage differences, so you can forget about a transformer. You charge it just as you do at home.

A converter and a transformer are basically the same thing - they change the electrical current so your appliance won't fry.

An adaptor is simply a plug that has the prongs that fit the wall socket type of the country you are visiting. Continental Europe is typically two rounded prongs (whereas a US appliance usually has two flat prongs). It does not change the electrical current.

If you appliance is "dual mode" then I don't think you would want to use a convertor/transformer.

I don't carry any electrical devices so I admit I am not the most experienced person at this. At least my posts will float your thread up so someone else can jump in!

Ok, it dawns on me that you might mean "dual band" since it is a phone you are discussing, which has nothing whatsoever to do with 'electrical current'. I will shut up now.

except to say that Robert posted in between me and he knows what he's talking about!

Hi Aleta,
Your probably correct, but it depends upon 4 things
1. The supply voltage of the country your charger was designed for.
2.The supply voltage of your destination.
3. The AC Adaptor /charger supplied with your phone must cover both these voltage ranges.
It should say somewhere on its case, AC Input 100v-240v~50/60Hz.
4. You will need the convertor to be able to plug it in at your destination.

Most modern Adaptor /chargers will cover all over the world, and as you said, you will just need to provide a pin adaptor.

Muck

Muck, what a great and detailed answer you gave me. indeed, my charger had all those numbers on it and I have an adapter for Spain (ie, most of Europe), so I am all set. many thanks