using laptop overseas - Tilted Forum Project Discussion Community

dogma13554u · 01-19-2005, 01:13 AM

Hey, I was hoping somebody could give me some advice. I have a new HP laptop, and will be travelling for a long while in europe, especially italy. The range of the voltage and Hz is within the range listed on the AC adapter for my computer, but I'm still a little hesitant to just plug it in with an adapter.

Should I use a converter to get the right powersourcw, or is it ok to just get a plug adapter and plug the thing in?

maleficent · 01-19-2005, 04:51 AM

I've used my Dell laptop in Australia, London, Belgium, Paris and Prague... I have a kit that has a bunch of adapters but other than that -- it just works...

macmanmike6100 · 01-19-2005, 05:52 AM

You're pretty safe so long as the ranges are correct, as you stated. However, while the voltages and frequencies might be in range, it's worthwhile to bring a surge protector as well. The power is unreliable in less developed nations. Italy should not prove a problem, but always safe than sorry.

Charlatan · 01-19-2005, 06:26 AM

Laptops have built in transformers (it's the little box, or sometimes big that is attached to your power cord). This transform would be rated for 220 to 110 volts.

Just make sure you have the correct plug adapter. Italy uses this sort of adapter

but if you are in a hotel you will likely only need at continental european adapter

Again, if you are in a hotel the concierge will likely have adapters, if you have forgotten to bring one and failing that many hotels have an outlet in the bathroom for electric razors... they are always North American compliant and will accept your power cord.

The other thing you should keep in mind is phone adapters. Not all hotels have wireless or highspeed and those that do, can be expensive (if you aren't on an expense account). Some phones in your room will have a data port which will allow your RJ11 phone plug to connect but in some countries you will definately need an adapter if you are using dial up.

dogma13554u · 01-20-2005, 08:50 AM

thanks for all the advice guys. it really has helped.

01-19-2005, 01:13 AM	#1 (permalink)
dogma13554u Crazy	using laptop overseas Hey, I was hoping somebody could give me some advice. I have a new HP laptop, and will be travelling for a long while in europe, especially italy. The range of the voltage and Hz is within the range listed on the AC adapter for my computer, but I'm still a little hesitant to just plug it in with an adapter. Should I use a converter to get the right powersourcw, or is it ok to just get a plug adapter and plug the thing in? __________________ So many people to love in my life. Why do I worry about one? - Ben Harper

01-19-2005, 04:51 AM	#2 (permalink)
maleficent Junkie Moderator Emeritus Location: Chicago	I've used my Dell laptop in Australia, London, Belgium, Paris and Prague... I have a kit that has a bunch of adapters but other than that -- it just works... __________________ Free your heart from hatred. Free your mind from worries. Live simply. Give more. Expect less.

01-19-2005, 06:26 AM	#4 (permalink)
Charlatan Getting it. Super Moderator Location: Lion City	Laptops have built in transformers (it's the little box, or sometimes big that is attached to your power cord). This transform would be rated for 220 to 110 volts. Just make sure you have the correct plug adapter. Italy uses this sort of adapter but if you are in a hotel you will likely only need at continental european adapter Again, if you are in a hotel the concierge will likely have adapters, if you have forgotten to bring one and failing that many hotels have an outlet in the bathroom for electric razors... they are always North American compliant and will accept your power cord. The other thing you should keep in mind is phone adapters. Not all hotels have wireless or highspeed and those that do, can be expensive (if you aren't on an expense account). Some phones in your room will have a data port which will allow your RJ11 phone plug to connect but in some countries you will definately need an adapter if you are using dial up. __________________ "My hands are on fire. Hands are on fire. Ain't got no more time for all you charlatans and liars." - Old Man Luedecke Last edited by Charlatan; 01-19-2005 at 06:31 AM..

01-20-2005, 08:50 AM	#5 (permalink)
dogma13554u Crazy	thanks for all the advice guys. it really has helped. __________________ So many people to love in my life. Why do I worry about one? - Ben Harper

01-19-2005, 05:52 AM	#3 (permalink)
macmanmike6100 High Honorary Junkie Location: Tri-state.	You're pretty safe so long as the ranges are correct, as you stated. However, while the voltages and frequencies might be in range, it's worthwhile to bring a surge protector as well. The power is unreliable in less developed nations. Italy should not prove a problem, but always safe than sorry.