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DPChallenge Forums >> Hardware and Software >> Charging my camera batteries while in Germany
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 08/14/2003 10:15:46 PM · #1
I'm traveling to Germany next week and intend to take my new digital camera with me.

I've never been abroad, and I know they use a different power system.

Anyone have a suggestion on what sort of adapter / converter I need to get, and from where? Obviously I'll need to be able to recharge my batteries, and I need to plug in my charger - it's just a cord that goes from the wall to the camera and charges the batteries while they are in the camera.

I know someone who used an adapter of some kind while in Europe and fried their electric toothbrush - I'm a little paranoid about doing the same thing to my camera.

Any suggestions?

Thanks

-Mike
 08/14/2003 10:36:36 PM · #2
Mike,
You'll first want to check your charger power supply requirements. Look at the input voltage specification. If it reads something like "Input: 100-240 VAC" then you are OK. It needs to include voltage up to at least 220VAC, and 50-60 Hz frequencies. If there is a transformer (wall wart) separate from the charging unit, you will neeed to look there). Europe uses 240V, 50Hz, where as US is 120V, 60Hz.
Most power adapters these days are capable of operating on a wide range of AC power sources, so it is very likely you are OK.
If your adapter will handle the higher voltage, then all you need is an adapter to connect the plug to the different outlet. I forget exactly whih one Germany uses, it has been four years since my last trip to Deutschland. You can find the adapters online.
 08/14/2003 10:38:17 PM · #3
Power supply in Germany - as with all of Europe pretty much - is 235 volts, 50 Hz. Check on your charger - it should have a voltage range on it somewhere - lots of electronics stuff these days can cope with a range from 100 to 250 volts, in which case you'll only need a plug adapter.

If it's only built for funny US voltages, then you'll need to talk to Canon, or find a Canon stockist, who'll no doubt overcharge you for a European version.

But I'd be surprised if the former is not the case.

Enjoy the wurst

ed
 08/14/2003 10:42:45 PM · #4
Get this:

//www.wonpro-international.com/UniversalPowerstrip.html

It's good for pretty much every plug in the world. :) I was SOOOOO surprised when the hotel let me use one in China. It fit my US stuff AND my Korean plugs...what a trip!!!

M
 08/15/2003 12:03:44 AM · #5
If possible try to get a separate charger. One of my friends blew up her camera when she went to Japan and plugged it right into the socket. Better dead charger then camera.
 08/15/2003 12:04:28 AM · #6
That happened to my hairdryer in Korea!!!

It's nutty...that's why I suggest the power strip and bringing your own stuffs.

M
 08/15/2003 12:16:01 AM · #7
With the blackout and the MS worm. Reminds us to save our work often and backup your files. You never know. Hours of work or the perfect shot can be lost.

It shows how we're still slaves to technology.

Message edited by author 2003-08-15 00:17:16.
 08/19/2003 12:43:40 AM · #8
Well, I bought an external charger today...just in case.

At least now the worst that will happen is that I'll blow up the charger, not my camera :)

Thanks to everyone for their input.

-Mike
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