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Thread ID: 92270 2008-08-04 02:31:00 Stepdown Transformers CYaBro (73) PC World Chat
Post ID Timestamp Content User
694787 2008-08-04 02:31:00 Hi,

I have got a few US items here that I need to supply power to.
I know that I need a stepdown transformer but what do all the other numbers mean?
Like 50VA or 120W???
I have a US power strip that I can plug into the transformer and then plug other items into that as they have US plugs on them.

There is only one item that needs a direct feed of 120VAC and all the others have a 12VDC adapter for them. I could just change the plug on these to a NZ plug but not all of them can take 110-240VAC so rather just leave them all as is.
CYaBro (73)
694788 2008-08-04 02:59:00 How much current your 110/120v devices will draw will determine how many VA or W you need. For your purposes VA and W are the same thing, and correlate to the wattage rating of your device. somebody (208)
694789 2008-08-04 05:44:00 Hi there CYaBro,

I have a stepdown transformer that we used when we got a printer from the US.
Where are you, coz you can have it for $50 bucks. I don't need it now.
lakewoodlady (103)
694790 2008-08-04 15:02:00 If you add all the W and/or VA values, that will give the total value that your step-down transformer should be. When you price the step-down transformer you may need to step-back for a while until your head stops spinning.
There are two common types of step down transformer. Auto transformers are cheaper, but if you wish to gain the benefits of any no-claim bonus on your (or other family member's) life insurance, the isolated secondary type is better value.
R2x1 (4628)
694791 2008-08-04 19:43:00 I have a big yellow one as all my UK power tools are 110V, although 240V is the domestic power over there on building sites it has to 110V unless its changed in the last few years. gary67 (56)
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