How to Use U.S. Gadgets and Appliances in Asian Countries

When traveling outside the U.S., it is always a good idea to check the electrical requirements in your destination country so that you're equipped with what you need when bringing your laptop, portable media players, cameras, and other electric and electronic equipment. While some hotels may be able to provide you with adapters and other electrical needs, being prepared on your own makes your travel more convenient and without any additional worries or concerns about your gadgets and appliances.

Voltage System, Plug Configuration, and Alternating Current
While the standard voltage system in theU.S. is 110 volts, the standard voltage system varies in each Asian country. Japan uses 100 volts. The Philippines, China, and Korea use 220 volts. Like in the U.S., the alternating current in most Asian countries is also 60. Japan uses 50.

Generally, wall outlets in Asia don't have a third round hole unlike with U.S. gadgets and appliances having two-prong plugs with a third round "grounding" prong. This is another concern that should be attended to when you bring your electric and electronic equipment outside the U.S. You need to know the plug configurationin the foreign country you are traveling to so you can use your gadgets and appliances there.

The change in alternating current (the number of times an electrical current changes directions each second) doesn't affect heating devices like steamers, but it affects electronic gadgets and appliances like computers, video equipment, and other items. For U.S.-based electronics designed to work with an alternating cycle of 60, they may get damaged when directly plugged to an electrical source with an alternating cycle of 50.

Once you determine the plug configurations, voltage system, and alternating current in the country you're visiting, check if your gadgets and appliances are auto volt/dual voltage so you know which ones need additional electrical requirements when used in countries outside the U.S. Most AC adapters, along with cellphones, laptops and cameras (and their chargers) are auto volt, meaning they can directly function with 110/100 and 220/240 volts. Otherwise, never plug them directly to electrical outlets in countries with standard voltage system of 220 or 240 volts as this can significantly damage your equipment. There are some electronics that may not be directly auto volt, but they have toggle switches that make them work with both voltages, as long as you choose the right selection from each equipment's toggle switch.

Using an Adapter
Buy the specific adapter or add-on plug with openings fitting your electronic's plug on one side and the prongs fitting the outlet on the other. When you travel to multiple countries, you typically need a different adapter or add-on plug for each destination.

Using a Converter
You need a converter for non-dual voltage electric appliances such as hair dryers, irons, and other heating devices that have simple mechanical motors. The converter works by stepping down the 220 electric current to 110. If you directly plug a U.S.-based electric appliance in a 220 or 240 electric current, it will burn out.

When using toggle-type converter (a converter with a toggle switch for more settings, mainly converting 110 to 220 and vice versa), be careful when choosing the appropriate settings to avoid damage not only to the converter but also your equipment.

Using a Transformer
You need a transformer for non-dual voltage electronic gadgets and appliances (those with chip or circuits) such as radios, shavers, computers, and TVs. The transformer changes the 220-volt current to 110 so your U.S.-based electronic device can function accordingly.

It is best to choose a transformer that can handle changes of not only the voltage system but also the alternating current. Carry a transformer that allows 60-cycle electronic items to work properly with a 50-cycle system. Unlike with adapters and add-on plugs which might require a separate item per country, the transformer can generally work in most places you go.

There are transformers (including most toggle types) that are not designed for very long, continuous use. If you're plugging in a laptop, recharging a camcorder or some other device that must be plugged in for a long time, be sure to buy a heavy-duty transformer designed for such purpose.

Buying Tips
Adapter plugs, converters, and transformers are commonly sold inelectronics stores, luggage shops, and travelboutiques. Most merchandisers from these stores are also knowledgeable about the specific electrical requirements in Asian countries frequently visited by Americans. Stores in airports typically sell these items as well; however, expect to buy them at a higher cost. You may also buy these in your destination country, only that the convenience of buying them ahead of time allows you to maximize your travel instead of having to search a foreign country for such items that you could have brought with you ahead of time.

Depending on how much you travel, it may be worthwhile to purchase heavy-duty and long-term types of combination voltage converter, transformer, and all kinds of plug adapters. They can come in handy especially during emergency situations. Just make sure you keep them in a protected and easily accessible place. It is also advisable to bring a surge protector especially when bringing a laptop.

"A Guide to Using Laptops, Hair Dryers and Other Appliances Abroad," CNN.
"Power Up," The Education Abroad Network.