Converting US power packs

[Ranga]

I have a couple of chargers for GPS devices that have the US plug prongs (like Aussie, but not slanted).

They're both rated for 110V-240V 5A. Is it possible to simply bend the prongs around to fit in an Aussie GPO, or is this beyond ghetto and just dangerous?

[101RRS]

I have done that but you run the risk of cracking the plastic and the plug does not want to stay in the socket as the pin goes from the Aust angle at the end of the pin to the US flat at the plastic and tends to pop out.

[miky]

You can buy an adapter. Jaycar, Dick Smith etc. Maybe JB HiFi etc.



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[adonuff]

Hi Im sure you can get an adapter, I have seen them for Australians travelling to the UK so that their Mobile phones, Hairdryers etc can be used Im sure the same would be available in the US?

[Lionel]

Hi Im sure you can get an adapter, I have seen them for Australians travelling to the UK so that their Mobile phones, Hairdryers etc can be used Im sure the same would be available in the US?

In the US - yes, but he is in Queensland! What you are thinking of for Australians travelling to the US is Aus 3 prong female to US 2 prong male. Not as common as UK/EU, because the voltage is different in US (& Japan).

What Ranga needs is a reverse adapter, which is Aus 3 prong male to US 2 prong female . I have seen so called "Universal Adapters" in Jaycar, I think, and maybe Dick Smith. These should do the trick - albeit a bit clumsy, but certainly better than bending the prongs.

Cheers,

Lionel

[rovercare]

Just cut the end of and fit a 3 pin plugtop, they come with instructions that any fool could follow:D

[Lionel]

Just cut the end of and fit a 3 pin plugtop, they come with instructions that any fool could follow:D

I think Ranga's talking about a "wall-wart". You can't just "cut the end of (sic) it" without partially destroying the unit!

If it's an inline type charger where you plug in a cable, well fine, but otherwise an adapter is the only safe way.

Cheers,

Lionel

[one_iota]

I just ordered an adaptor for aussie to asia from DSE

But here is one for you:


KORJO Multi Reverse Adaptor Set | Dick Smith Online Shopping (http://dicksmith.com.au/product/M7311/korjo-multi-reverse-adaptor-set)

http://dicksmith.com.au/media/DSAU/Product/300x300/M7311_0_0037139_med_v1_m56577569830687170.jpg (javascript:setSelectedImgPath('/media/DSAU/Product/300x300/M7311_0_0037139_med_v1_m56577569830687170.jpg'))

[bee utey]

I have a couple of chargers for GPS devices that have the US plug prongs (like Aussie, but not slanted).

They're both rated for 110V-240V 5A. Is it possible to simply bend the prongs around to fit in an Aussie GPO, or is this beyond ghetto and just dangerous?
Works on soft plastic plug tops, done it a couple of times:). Wouldn't do it to a plug pack though.

Got the adaptor you need gratis free with a charger from China (ebay), pm me if you want it. I just bent the pins on the cord you see.:D

[999]

Personally I just bend them with a small shifter. Never had any problems so far, the prongs may sheer slightly but that depends on the plastic.

[slug_burner]

you can get these two for $1 + free postage.

https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2010/12/1223.jpg

here

[CraigE]

Get an adaptor. They sell them at most places like DSE, international airports, travel agents, camping shops. They have many different types.
If not it may be easier just to buy a charger rated the same.
If you bend pins or alter in anyway from spec and there is any sort of incident you will lose any insurance and may be held culpable.

[Ranga]

Thanks all. Should have mentioned I already have an adapter, but came across one owned by somebody else that had been bent like mentioned, and wondered what the go was.