Running a 220v computer in a 110v environment

From: Dwight Elvey <elvey_at_hal.com>
Date: Thu Oct 7 16:07:19 1999

Scott Ware <ware_at_corestack.com> wrote:
> On Thu, 7 Oct 1999 allisonp_at_world.std.com wrote:
>
> > Usually, (I know of no exceptions) if it runs on 50hz it runs on 60.
>
> Weren't there a few S-100 boxes that used ferroresonant transformers in
> the PSU? Plugging a device with a ferroresonant transformer (a
> transformer+inductor combination that is quite well regulated but very
> dependent on input frequency) into an incorrect frequency power source is
> likely to yield unpleasant results.
>
> Although ferroresonant transformers are relatively uncommon (except in
> UPSes and line conditioning systems), the possiblity of encountering a
> ferroresonant transformer in the PSU is a good reason to be careful when
> powering up an unknown box on the "wrong" frequency for the first time.

Hi
 Besides the ferroresonant transformers issue, if it is a
switcher power supply, many are configurable for 110V.
Often times there is a jumper on the supply to select
which it will be used on. When in the 110 mode, they have
a voltage doubler type of rectifier. This makes the
DC into the swithcing transistor the same. Some newer
switchers I've seen will run on a continuious range of
voltages from 80 to 250 volts. Still, look at the supplies
to see what your options are.
Dwight
Received on Thu Oct 07 1999 - 16:07:19 BST