Electrical devices in Europe

[bigup2dahorns]

travelling primarily to ireland in august and it's been a few years since i've been and i forgot what the situation is with the plugs over there. i'd like to charge up my ipod. do they use the same plugs as in the states or do i need a converter? and if i need the converter would it be safe for the ipod? i'll be in dublin and then in northern ireland on a golf trip at multiple hotels. thanks.

 

[brntorng]

They have 230V 50Hz service rather than 120V 60Hz service available in the US. Many electronic devices these days will work with either one. To be sure, look at the small print on the device's power supply and look for something like: AC 100-240V, 50-60Hz. If the ranges listed include 230V and 50Hz, you're good to go as far as the voltage is concerned. Then, you need to have a physical plug adapter. In Ireland they use the same as the UK:

Get an adapter before you leave the US; it's usually very difficult to find them at your destination. Radio Shack has them as well as most stores that sell travel items. Usually you only need the physical plug converter. There usually isn't a need to get an electronic converter unless your item only accepts 120V.

 

[EuroHorn]

A plug adapter is really all you need. As the previous poster mentioned, almost all electronics work with no converter. I have used my cell phone, ipod, computer, etc. all over Europe with no issues.

 

[bigup2dahorns]

thanks guys. i love the pics as well.