Voltage Questions...

[melon]

A friend of mine is in France and wants to use his laptop there. The power supply says that it can handle 110-220V on the back, which my first instinct tells me that it should be able to handle European electricity.

If he just uses a plug adapter, can he just plug it into the wall without a converter? Secondly, if that adapter has no grounding plug, is that a problem?

Melon

 

[kcnychief]

Not sure of the specifics, but I am 99.9% sure he will need an adapter. I believe, and again don't quote me, the outlets are much different over there. Something along the lines of this I would think...

http://www.pcsuperstore.com/products/F25680-Archos_Technology-500677.html/froogle/

 

[melon]

Yes, he has an adapter, but it doesn't convert voltage from 110V (North America) to 220V (Europe). This is usually why American tourists who don't do their research end up with an exploding hair dryer, despite using an adapter.

But like I said above, the power supply apparently says that it supports 110-220V. I presume that means he just needs an adapter, rather than a converter...correct?

And the added part of this question is whether his adapter is okay without a grounding plug. I'm not all that familiar with the science of electricity, so I'm hoping someone here knows instead.

Melon

 

[kcnychief]

I apologize as I mis-read your original post. If the power supply supports 110-220v, then the adapter without a converter should be fine.

I would try to get an adapter with a grounding plug if possible.

 

[damnyank]

From past experience in Europe - make absolutely sure the Power supply does not say 110 -220V switchable! If it is switchable - there is a switch somewhere that you have to change from 110 to 220! My wife always has me switch her blow dryer over prior to returning home!