Electrical help electrictions and others?

Question

im a little worried in case my new psp comes with a us plug (im from the uk) is there anything that i can put in front of the of my socket so it will charge.

Answer 1

Read the label on the power supply.  It will specify the maximum input voltage it is designed to handle.

If you're in the UK (and not just from the UK), chances are your wall socket delivers 220 to 240 VAC.

If the label on the PSP power supply says "input voltage: 120 VAC" or anything less than 240, it's time to visit your local traveller's goods store to buy an adapter / transformer.  They sell them in the Airports, too.

Answer 2

The answer depends upon where you are and the sophistication of the power supply.

UK socket outlets are different from anybody else's.  European power is supplied in the range 200-240 Volts 50Hz, US 110 Volts 60Hz.

Because of this it will be necessary for you to get expert advice on the actual box of tricks you receive.  A good local, old fashioned, electrical shop if you have one, Maplin perhaps.

Sorry not to be able to be more reassuring.

Answer 3

Any appliance sold in the UK must contain a BS1363 plug fitted. I would suggest you remind any vendor of electrical equipment this,  that chooses to flaunt this law.

If you go outside the UK to buy something then you need to ensure it operates at 230v, 50hz. You can get adapters or simply cut off the plug and fit a BS1363 in these cases but you take some element of risk doing this.

Maplins supply a range of transformers that will convert the UK 230v to US 120v in various power sizes. It would be unlikely to be feasible in the (unlikely) event the appliance wouldn't work at 50hz as the US use 60hz.