[Shop-talk] Battery Starter/Charger

[DAVID MASSEY]

 That's a bad assumption.  It is much safer to assume you cannot switch between 110 and 220 with a transformer.  Transformers CAN be designed to be switch between the two voltages using dual primary windings allowing them to be configured in either parallel or series.  Many pieces of equipment are so designed and many of those have a switch somewhere allowing the end user to select the appropriate voltage.  When using equipment it is a good idea to look for this switch and, if found, make sure it is in the correct position.


If no such switch is found, check the label.  UL, CSA, CE, VDE and other approval agencies require a label indicating the input power ratings including voltage, frequency and power.


Back when I was designing line powered stuff we designed around the voltage range of 90 to 132 (180 - 264) Vac so whether you have 220, 230 or 240 should not be an issue for consumer products.  Many electronic devices work over the range of 90 to 264 volts but this is because of some sophisticated electronics in the power supply section specifically designed to accommodate this range.


The UK unit, if it is a transformer-based design, most likely is design for the EU market and will not work as advertised on 120 Vac.  The electrical requirements are for 230 volts up to 16 amps.  To get the same kick out of a 120 volt device would need over 32 amps which is well in excess of the typical domestic branch circuit and if you are going to run a special circuit you may as well make it a 230 volt circuit.

 

Dave Massey


 

 

-----Original Message-----
From: Jim Stone <1789alpine at gmail.com>
To: Pat Horne <patintexas at icloud.com>; Shop Talk <shop-talk at autox.team.net>
Sent: Sat, Sep 8, 2018 5:52 pm
Subject: Re: [Shop-talk] Battery Starter/Charger


That is true, but it will almost definitely be a transformer and many (most?) modern transformers can handle 110-220v, meaning only a plug converter will be needed.  And, if the transformer isn’t compatible then it would just be a matter of finding a comparable US one.  For reference, my Clore charger is 18v 500 mA.


Which does bring up one drawback of the charger packs: it just took me a minute to find the charger.  Without one, the pack is essentially worthless.  The Clore came with a cigarette lighter plug that is supposed to let you charge it directly from a running car, but that never seemed to work.  It might just be a problem with my charger.  I never contacted them to find out.



On Sep 8, 2018, at 8:56 AM, Pat Horne <patintexas at icloud.com> wrote:


One thing about the UK unit is that it will probably require 220v service. 


Peace,
Pat


Pat Horne 
We support Caldwell County Habitat for Humanity







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