OK, I have a quick question...

Why do some "wall wart" power adapters (transformer from AC to DC) work with 110v/60hz and 220v/50hz.. but others do not?

Don't they all have the same electronics inside, with the only difference being the output voltage and amperage?

Don't they all use the same sort of AC to DC conversion that would work with both input voltages/frequencies?

Is the only difference that some are marked to work with both, and others are not?

In other words, am I safe to plug in my power adapter for my router into 220v/50hz even if it isn't marked for 220v/50hz? (I bought my router in Canada, but just moved to France, and I didn't bring a power convertor because all my other adapters say they work with both voltages and I just assumed this one would work, too...)

It DOES say that it is marked for 110v 50/60hz, which is kind of strange since we don't have 50hz in north america... so why would they indicate both frequencies but only one voltage?

Thanks for any help.

 

LOL,

i dont think this is the forum you were looking for first. This is for ThirdGen Camaro/Firebird electronics.

Second, no not all adapter are the same. Cheap ones will not autoswitch for 220/110. Id say its cheaper to buy a new adpater than a new house...

 

Thanks! Sorry about that...

 

Sorry to bug you (again), and I know this is a car forum.. but I can't find an answer to my question and I'm really stuck.

Mods, if this is inappropriate, please go ahead and delete.

----------------

The adapter that I have for my device says it is:

Output: 5.0v / 2.5A

I was able to find another adapater that works with 220v/50hz, but the output is: 5.0v / 2.0A

Can I use this adapter for my device? Will .5A cause a problem?

Thanks!

 

*cough*
http://electronics.howstuffworks.com/electricity.htm

More specifically http://electronics.howstuffworks.com/electricity3.htm

*cough*

 

Awesome. I had no idea such a website existed! This is going to keep me entertained for at least a few weeks.

Thanks! (again)