Afaid I might blow up my DVD player. 115V and 200v outlet question.

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the use of a step-down transformer for a US DVD player in Australia, where the voltage supply is higher than the device's requirements. Participants explore the safety and functionality of using the transformer to avoid damaging the DVD player.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses uncertainty about the transformer, noting its specifications and questioning whether it will safely convert the voltage for the DVD player.
  • Another participant asserts that the output of the transformer should match the DVD player's requirements.
  • A suggestion is made to use an AC voltmeter to check the output voltage of the transformer before connecting the DVD player, with a safe range proposed.
  • One participant mentions the possibility of using a less critical device rated for 115V to test the transformer instead of a voltmeter.
  • A different approach is proposed, suggesting the use of an incandescent lamp to gauge the transformer's output by observing its brightness.
  • Participants discuss the frequency difference, noting that Australia operates at 50Hz compared to the 60Hz standard in North America, raising questions about its relevance to the situation.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the best method to ensure the transformer is safe to use. Multiple approaches are suggested, and uncertainty remains regarding the implications of frequency differences.

Contextual Notes

There is a lack of consensus on the necessity of a voltmeter versus alternative testing methods, and the discussion includes assumptions about the safety of using the transformer without prior testing.

hkhil
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Hi folks

I found a STEP DOWN transformer lying somewhere in the basement from way back when and I am not sure whether this thing is going to do what I think it does.

I am in Australia, a 220-240V country. I have a US DVD player and it's 110-120V AC.

It says on my transformer... INPUT: 230/240V AC, OUTPUT: 115V AC 65VA (0.57A), 65W stepdown. Is this the right thing to use??

Now I think this is going to do the trick but I don't want to black out my house if something goes wrong. Not to mention fry my player. Cause I was thinking that the OUTPUT should be 230/240 V AC since that's the voltage here.

I vaguely remember using this transformer before but I could be wrong.

Any help will be great.
 
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The output should be what the DVD player requires.
 
If you are afraid it may fry something, and want an added level of security, why not just plug the transformer in and check the voltage with an AC voltmeter before plugging in the DVD player? Any reading from about 110 to about 130 Volts should be OK.
 
thanks averagesupernova and hammie.

Well Hammie, the thing is I don't have a AC voltmeter. If they aren't too expensive (like under 10 dollars from the hardware store), I might get one.

So If the voltmeter says 110-130, then it should be ok right? Well I might check that alternative.

Thanks anyways guys.
 
Maybe instead of a voltmeter, you could find some semi-useless device that's also rated for 115 and plug it in. If it doesn't blow up, you might be okay. By the bye, what's your frequency down there? I don't know if it matters in this case, but a North American unit is designed for 60 cycle.
 
You could do a rough check by using an incedesent lamp. Should be approx. half as bright.
 
Low-end voltmeters can probably be gotten for $10AU.
 
It is 50hz down here. I still haven't plugged in my player yet lol.

Maybe my player will just be for show now hehe. Model player. Just kidding, I'm off to buy that voltmeter. Thanks again guys.