Adaptor for Digital?

[joe]

I just bought a Kodak digital camera for my trip. Do I need to buy some kind of electric adaptor to charge it while I'm over there, and if so..where do I get it? Can I buy it in Europe? thanks!

2 days to go!!!! ;D

[Eagle]

JOE, there are a couple of things to consider with your digital Camera. First of all, it's almost certain you'll need a Plug Adapter to allow you to connect the Charger to the different shaped AC Receptacles in Europe. Note that there are different Adapters required for the U.K. (three large rectangular pins) than for mainland Europe (two small round pins). You can buy the Plug Adapters at most travel shops, Radio Shack stores, etc.

Next you need to carefully check the specifications on the "nameplate" of the Charger that came with your Camera. You will be looking for something that reads "Input Voltage 100-240 VAC" or words to that effect. If it says "Input Voltage 115 VAC" then you have a problem and will need a Voltage Converter also. With electronic devices of this type, a Transformer type 50 Watt Converter is generally adequate. Again, you should be able to pick one of these up at Travel shops or Radio Shack. As far as I know most of these are not rated for "continuous duty" so you should unplug it when not in use. I would try to avoid buying these types of electronic devices in Europe, as they're generally a lot more expensive than in North America.

The Charger supplied with my Canon Camera is rated for "world" operation, so I suspect your Kodak Charger will be the same. A few more items to think about -- don't forget an adequate amount of Memory Cards and extra Batteries!!!

Two days to go, I imagine you're getting fairly anxious to get on the plane! Good luck and hope you have a fantastic trip!!!

[joe]

I've decided not to buy a battery charger afterall...just bring lots of batteries with me. Has anyone done this, rather than get a battery charger and how did it work out?

[dougj]

i just took my duracell charger and bought a 50 watt multiadapter (with voltage changer) from radio shack. worked great. took 3 sets of recharables with me.

regular batteries could be ok if you camera doesn't use them up fast (like mine does).

[Eagle]

JOE, I assumed that your new Camera was provided with a Charger and rechargeable batteries when I made my last post (I use a Canon Camera, so wasn't aware of what Kodak supplies with their products). Does this use "AA" batteries, rather than the proprietary Lithium Ion batteries?

As far as "bringing lots of batteries", that's not the best solution! I assume you're referring to alkaline batteries? These don't work as well in Digital Cameras as rechargeables, since the discharge curve is different and you may find that you get very few "shots" before getting a low battery warning.

If you're using "AA" batteries, the most cost effective solution would be to use Nickel Metal Hydride rechargeable batteries, preferably those with a capacity of 2100 maH or better. You could still keep a few sets of alkaline batteries for "emergencies". Two sets of batteries is a good idea, as you might find that you do more photography on your trip than you planned.

One thing to remember, NiMH batteries have a self discharge rate that is higher than other types of rechargeables. What this means is that they will discharge a bit every day, even if just sitting in your bag. It's a good idea to put them on charge before going out on a photo shoot.

I bought a multi-voltage Charger for my Son at Radio Shack, and it works well on electrical systems at home and in Europe. The Canadian model number is 23-8905, and this should be available in stores (they may have other models as well). You would still need Plug Adapters, but they are very inexpensive.

Good luck with this and have a great time on your trip!