Running a 220v computer in a 110v environment

From: Hans Franke <Hans.Franke_at_mch20.sbs.de>
Date: Mon Oct 11 14:31:13 1999

> Probably some of you have already done this. I have an equipment, a
> parsytec xplorer,

k3wl (sp?) :)

> that runs a 220v. I got it from across the pond.
> Since I am in the states and the power output is 110v, is there any way
> for me to run this without getting a transformer to pump it up to
> 220v??? Unfortunately, the parsytec doesnt convert automatically like
> PC and laptops of today.

The xplorers PSU should be _way_ to new to use any obsolete
effekt (like ferrit resonant effect transformers). I would
assume that it is switchable - maybe you have to check the
PSUs PCB for marks. Otherwise it is hard to avoide a transformer.

> In my apartment, there is a funny looking plug
> next to out AC. I remember somewhat vaugely that it is actually 220v.
> Is this true??? How did you guys solve this problem???? I want to get
> a good solid response before I blow up the machine :-)

Could be - I'm not the expert in US electrics (althrough I just did
some studies to buy the right stuff for my 110V paneel) - but 220/240V
sounds good when it comes to a 3~ plug. If you buy an aprobiate plug,
and whire two 'hots', your system should work well. If the outlet has
a distinct Protective Ground, you should also wire PG to allow your
GFCI to check for deffective loops. This is save with all newer European
stuff, since an in device PE/N connection is no longer valid - also all
devices ave to be constructed in a way that there is no need to
distinguish between Neutral and 'Hot' (Some exceptions apply to British
EQ, but even their manufacturers switched soon, since they don't want to
have two different PSUs for the same unit :).

If the PSU uses a transformer, you may also check if you can replace it
by an aprobiate type for 110V (BTW: A true switched PSU might also run
from DC - just, you need some 220 * cos(phi) Volts or roughly 280+ V)

And for the frequency: don't care - as long as it is not used as signal
(_very_ unlikely in post 1970 designs) you won't have any problem.
Power _and_ frequency adjustment is only necersarry for _real_ old
stuff - in this case a motor/generator unit is needed - or a petrol
engine powered generator :).

Anyway, if you want to keep you unit in an unmodified state, and if
you think about aquireing more 220V gear, buy either a pre made step
up transformer, or build it into your workbench - possibly with a
selection of 220V outlets (German/French and British as most notable).


Gruss
H.

P.S.: At VCF, Sallaams 110/220V transformer did bring my Computers
to life - even including the Russian TV set :)

(BTW: VCF was great, and big hug to all of you)
Received on Mon Oct 11 1999 - 14:31:13 BST