We are considering taking a tiny portable DVD player with us on the flight to/from Italy. If we want to recharge it in Italy for the return trip, does anyone know if this will be a problem? It has a typical 2 prong plug. I have an old converter but am not sure if it is even still functional...

Most computers and many camera battery rechargers are dual-voltage (110/220). Take a look on the device's power supply--it would be clearly marked. It is easy to get an adapter to fit into a European plug--just make certain you have the voltage resolved!

Thanks for the quick reply. I know that I am showing my ignorance here, but I am looking at the AC adaptor plug and it says "Input: ~120v 23W 60Hz Output: ~9v 1500mA" So with this in mind, do we need a converter? And if so, how do I know which voltage?

You do need a converter--try the local Radio Shack--they might recommend getting (instead of a converter) a new dual-voltage power supply. It might be useful to have the converter, though, for other things either now or in the future. <BR><BR>Decisions are never easy.

You will need a converter (transformer); the really good ones are quite heavy, and the lighter weight ones are usually inadequate - - although 23 watts power consumption is quite low. For best results, I would recommend finding an electronics store in Italy.<BR><BR>More and more video selections are being offered, even in coach on more and more flights. Nevertheless, if you do decide to take it, I'll be interested in your experience using it - - and especially hooking up to a regular TV there. There are country specific restrictions on DVD technology. Your USA player may not work in Italy (hooked up to a TV).<BR><BR>Best wishes,<BR><BR>Rex<BR>

Rex,<BR>She talking about a portable one - it has a screen of its own. <BR>Emily, I take my laptop, which has a DVD player. I usually watch movies during the flights. I did buy a power converter, but I usually fly AA, and they have power receptecles in most seats, so I get to use my laptop even on long flights. My laptop is setup for 110/220 so all I need in Europe is an adapter. I think you misunderstood the question about the power supply. If you look at the bottom of the player, there should be a plate with serial#, etc, etc, and power setup info. If it's setup to receive 220V then all you need is a power adapter. If it's not then you need a power converter. If I were you, I would take the player to Radio Shack and have one of the electronic geek(love them) advise you

I did read the question.<BR><BR>&lt;&lt;If we want to recharge it in Italy for the return trip&gt;&gt;<BR><BR>They want to recharge it IN Italy, not on the plane.<BR><BR>And yes, I did ask a separate question.<BR><BR>Don't people do that here?<BR>

Sorry Rex,<BR>You are out of your league on this one. <BR>Good-by!

Thanks for EVERYONE'S advice. I looked all over the darn player itself (panasonic LV70) and there is no indication of voltage anywhere-- only on the power cord as I previously described. Oh well... sounds like the best advice of all is to head to the local Radio Shack and seek their assistance. Thanks!

I'm just curious....Why are you taken a portable DVD on the plane?

Just,<BR>so she could watch some movies. You have a problem with that?

to the top<BR>

There will be several channels of movies available on the plane's personal video screens. Why take an extra (expensive if lost or damaged) piece of equipment just to watch a couple of movies? With the movies, videos, games and route map you don't need to take your own entertainment.

That depends on the airline she's flying, doesn't it? Not all of them have the video in the seat option. Some still have the screens hanging from the ceiling, showing only 1 or 2 movies, when they want to, plus they're edited not to offend any passenger. I prefer to watch when I want, what I want. If they do have personal choice video option, then yes it's great. You also have to realize that maybe she will be doing lots of travel within Europe train/plane, and the DVD player comes handy during those long hours.

More and more airlines are converting to seat-back videos. Check your airline's website, it will tell you how the plane is equipped.

The real question is why buy it in the first place. But since that's moot at this point, it seems fine to take it to me.<BR>

Bill- If you're really interested, we actually "won" it at a charity auction. <BR><BR>And, I have already called the airlines (Luftansa) and they informed me what movies would be shown on both legs of the trip. I have either already seen or am not at all interested in what they are showing. I'm still contemplating taking it, but seeing as it weighs just over a pound and is so tiny, I'm leaning towards taking it.

what ever happened to reading a book?

Missed those two weeks in my freshman year when they covered reading a book. Please explain.<BR>

xxx -- Probably your parents were taking you on vacation those 2 weeks.