voltage STEP UP converters ?

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redbenjoe

I Am Legend
need some links or brands and sources for converters --
to run foreign 220V boxes on us 110v -------

i have some that are rated at only 50 watts - they work fine -
but get WAY too hot --

anyone know of a good 100- 200 watt COMPACT unit?

thanks
 

Superduper

Moderator
Staff member
Sorry Ira, I can't help you there. You're probably better off using a ac adapter and powering the DC in jack instead which is probably better and more efficient than using the converter. The reason is that the converter is going to be a transformer which in turn is going to power another transformer (inside the boombox). Due to the inefficiencies of the power conversion, doing it twice is probably the least desirable way to do it. The heat you are feeling is the waste energy produced due to the inefficiencies of the converter and probably the high guage wiring which has too much resistance.

Another thing you might want to look into is the existing transformer in your boombox. Many transformers have more than 1 set of coils which allows the transformer to operate on multiple input voltages. If your existing transformer has an unused center tap, powering the transformer from that lead will most likely result in the proper output voltage on 110v input. This is a rather simple change that will have no external signs of conversion.

In fact, my Japanese RX-7700 is 100volts only. I also have a US version with multivoltage selector. Both use the exact same transformer. The only difference is how the transformer is hooked up and which leads are used on the inputs. Needless to say, changing it over to the correct voltage was no issue at all.
 

jaetee

Member (SA)
I would use an A/C converter too if the box has the ability to do so.

A/C converters are generally cheaper (tax vs. shipping), you can get them at radio shack right away, and I think they will draw less juice from the wall as well. Triple win!

Plus, you get to take your boomer to Radio Shack and show it off while they find the proper connector for it.

But, if your box doesn't have an A/C connection, you're forced to use the bulky step-up converter.
 

redbenjoe

I Am Legend
thanking all for the help/ideas

and
analogboi -- i plan to order that model soon :-D :thumbsup:
appreciate the link
 
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