Transformers

[C and J 1]

I'm trying to find a few prices for transformers to use my UK appliances in the US. The only one I have managed to find so far is on the Maplin site for £29, all the others I've found seem to convert the other way (US appliances for UK use).

Are transformers something that are readily-available cheaply in the States and, therefore, something that I should just wait to get until I am there or should I continue looking now? I'm hoping they are readily available, because Ebay is full of cheap transformers to convert American appliances for UK use. £4 vs £29 is a lot of difference just to convert the "other way".

Does anyone have a particularly good brand or model number that they can recommend? I obviously want something that will last (who doesn't!) and cheaper would be good too

[Fandango 1,440]

Depending on what the appliances are, you might be better off buying new once you get here.

[ChasUK 0]

When I came over, I was lucky, most of my transformers were rated for 110-240v input. Check the little label on each transformer. If it says that, then you can use it with just a plug socket adapter. If it says 220-240v input then you need to replace it.

I checked Radio Shack online and they have a selection of various transformers (home power supplies). You need to know the output of the transformer you are replacing, (from the same little label) and find the equivalent in the list.

Having said that I only need to replace 2 and the best option in each case is from the manufacturer of the item being powered. Example, I need to replace the supply for a Logitech joystick. Logitech can supply a US power supply direct.

Hope this helps.

Edited September 18, 2007 by ChasUK

[Trompe le Monde 1,107]

We got a good transformer at our local hardware store no problem for about $30 - we only use it for our stereo, which we didn't want to sell. We sold everything else, though

[Sheri&Carl 0]

This is what I'm looking at for Carl http://www.hammacher.com/publish/73996.asp

[ChasUK 0]

This is what I'm looking at for Carl http://www.hammacher.com/publish/73996.asp

Wow, if you intend to use one of those for each thing you need that's quite an expensive way to do it. Replacing each power supply will cost you half that and you would be using the dedicated supply too, not a "stick me in the middle" universal adapter, which that link is for.

My guitar effects processor uses a power supply that wasn't useable in the US. I contacted the manufacturer by email and they can supply me the exact thing I need for less than $20.

[C and J 1]

Thanks for all the responses, they're very helpful