travel adaptor

[rbrettg]

i have walkie talkies that im thinking of bringing to europe but im not sure on the voltage thing. I have an adaptor that changes north america to europe, but i don't know if ine works. The charger says, Input: 120VAC 60Hz 4.4W . It also says output DC9.0V 200mA. Can i just use my adaptor? If not I dont want to bring these because im not wasting money on a converter that may or may not work.

[Eagle]

rbettg, A few points to consider regarding your questions. First, I need to clarify the wording in your description. You indicated that you "have an adaptor that changes north america to europe". Are you referring to a Plug Adaptor that allows N.A. plugs to be used with European outlets?

The 120 VAC Charger you mentioned is NOT designed for use in Europe, and would probably burn out very quickly if connected (perhaps in a "puff of smoke" or other spectacular fashion!). If you want to use that particular Charger in Europe, you would need a Voltage Convertor in addition to a Plug Adaptor. The Voltage Converter will reduce or "step down" the European 220 VAC for North American 120 VAC appliances. It's important to use a transformer type Voltage Converter for low wattage solid-state appliances, rather than one that uses electronic conversion methods.

The second issue of concern with Walkie-Talkies is frequency. Models designed for use in North America will be equipped with different operating frequencies than those of the European models. It's possible that N.A. models might contain frequencies used by law enforcement or government agencies, so it would be illegal to use them in Europe.

I suspect some people do take these to Europe, and probably have no difficulties. However, if caught and charged for illegal use, the consequences could be very unpleasant.

Hope this helps.

Cheers!!!

[rbrettg]

on second thought maybe i will not be taking these lol too much trouble