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I read the previous threads about power converters and plug adapters..my questions wasn't really answered...

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I read the previous threads about power converters and plug adapters..my questions wasn't really answered...

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Old Dec 15th, 2004, 08:52 AM
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I read the previous threads about power converters and plug adapters..my questions wasn't really answered...

My parents are taking thier cell phones to Europe since the phones will work over there. The battery charger cord says 120v/60nz on it. Most of the questions I've seen is asking about a 110/240 (or something like that). With the 120v/60hz, will they need a powere converter as well as a plug adapter?
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Old Dec 15th, 2004, 08:55 AM
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Sorry, I didn't read the post again to correct my grammar and spelling errors.
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Old Dec 15th, 2004, 09:00 AM
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>>>>>>With the 120v/60hz, will they need a powere converter as well as a plug adapter?<<<<<<

Yes.

Here's a website that explains the different electrical supplies around the world and has <b>photos</b> of the converters and adapter plugs for each country.

http://www.walkabouttravelgear.com/wwelect.htm
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Old Dec 15th, 2004, 09:08 AM
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thank you!
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Old Dec 15th, 2004, 09:44 AM
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Yes, they will need a transformer (converter). Usually you won't need a plug adapter for the battery charger to plug into the transformer(converter), but maybe for the transformer to plug into the wall socket. A small transformer should easily handle the battery charger.

I hope I haven't thoroughly confused you.
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Old Dec 15th, 2004, 09:48 AM
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Many stores now cell kits with variety of converters and adapters - we have found that to be cheaper than hunting down specific items for each country. These kits always have a list or chart telling you what you need for each country, and the one we bought had a website to consult for any updates.
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Old Dec 15th, 2004, 09:51 AM
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The cell phone manufacturer might offer a &quot;Europe&quot; charger kit that solves both the voltage and connector issues. My Siemens is like that.
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Old Dec 15th, 2004, 10:30 AM
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I'll have them call where ever they purchased the phones...thanks.
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Old Dec 15th, 2004, 11:24 AM
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First, call your cell phone company to check out your model and if you even need a converter.

I have been to EUR with 2 different Samsung phones and a Blackberry and neither required a voltage converter, thats all built into the phone.

All you may need is an inexpensive plug adaptor to convert to the countries unique plg. The UK and continental Europe use different plugs.

Also call your cell phone company and twell them you are planning to use it in Europe, they usually have to activate international roaming.
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Old Dec 15th, 2004, 11:33 AM
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Hi sandi,

120v means that the electrical wire is rated for US voltage (about 100 to 120 volts) and not European voltage (200-240 volts).

It requires a converter.

It will also require a plug adapter.

The 60hz doesn't matter in this context.
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Old Dec 15th, 2004, 01:30 PM
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just buy the charger in europe at a shop. i use my parent's NOKIA charger when in USA for my spanish Nokia. should cost $15.00.
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Old Dec 15th, 2004, 01:32 PM
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also.. you WILL need PLUG adaptors, that have NOTHING to do with electricity. but those are also sold in the electronic shops if you can't find them where you are.

if you get to spain, el corte ingles has everything, as do the large &quot;hipermarkets&quot; and electronic shops. they are everywhere.
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Old Dec 15th, 2004, 09:29 PM
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Plug converter, yes.
Voltage converter from 230v to 120v, yes.
Frequency converter from 50hz (Europe) to 60hz (US standard) is not to be done. They can get by with a voltage converter but the different frequency may burn out the charger in a short time.

It is probably best to buy a charger in Europe that matches the output characteristics of the charger they have.

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Old Dec 15th, 2004, 11:36 PM
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Something I've noticed in Ireland, especially, is that while corded US devices seem to power up fine with converters and adapter plugs, chargers don't do nearly as well, and sometimes will not push a charge at all. Be prepared for that possibility if at all possible. A hand-crank charger for a cell phone is a very useful device to own.
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Old Dec 16th, 2004, 06:16 AM
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With their cell phones so plainly geared for the US market, I would also check to see whether they will work in Europe, regardless of the power.

I know my provider offers tens of different phones, but only a few of them will work in the US and Europe.
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