CRAIGFIN

A quick query for you. I picked up a Belkin Wi Fi router on my last trip to the US. The mains AC adapter has an input of 120v 60hz for the American system and an output of 4.5v DC 1.5a. Would it be able to handle the 240v input over here and still output the required 4.5v?

Before I get flamed for an obvious oversight, I have numerous electrical equipment in my home from the States and none of it has required any sort of transformer or adapter apart from the odd shaver plug now and then. My old american Gameboy Advance just plugged into a 240v supply as does my US PS3. I know a lot of stuff has switchable PSU's but am not 100% sure about the mains adapters. I can always get a tailored adapter from Maplins for a few quid anyway so its not the end of the world if I can't use it anyway.

Any advice appreciated,

Craig.

TopBanana

Probably not

Fart Man

If the labeling for the input voltage on the transformer doesn't state "110v to 240v" or 240v then no, it is not suitable.

Best solution, as you say is a general purpose transformer that can be selected to put out 4.5volts at the rated current (1.5amps). Just makes sure the polarity of the connector is correct (some use positive for the centre pin, others use negative....why its not standardised is beyond me ).

Sosbanite

It will go bang, pop down to Maplins!

matt.bowey

I "may" be OK, it you over rate the primary of a transformer, you will overstress the insualtion system in the transformer, I would guess the secondary of the transformer won't really notice as the transformer should saturate magnetically as its rated for 120V. I would expect the DC output to remain the same due to the saturation, and the fact that the DC will be created by some clever circuitry.

If the insulation system is man enough, then the transformer may still fail due to the increased iron loss due to the increased voltage, increasing the flux linkages.......

.......its prob best not to connect your device to the UK mains me thinks!