If you live in Israel can you use a transformer to step down the 240V power to 120V and then use an American appliance or do you also have a cycle problem and if so can it be cured?

Answer 1

Yes, i have done two deployments overseas and both times used converters to step down 220-110. Just make sure it is a good converter. I recommend anything by radio shack.

More AnswerIsrael uses 220Volts at 50 cycles. You can use a step down transformer to step the voltage down to 120 for 120 appliances.

50 cycle power will cause many ac motors to run about 83% slower. Synchronous AC motors rotate at exactly the supply frequency, and mechanical clocks made for 60 cycles will run slow on 50 cycles, loosing 10 minutes every hour (or 4 hours every day).

You cannot easily or inexpensively change 50 cycle power to 60 cycles.

You can buy Transformers at Radio Shack before you go, but if you have a problem it will be difficult to get to RS to exchange it.

Transformers are heavy, and a big one can weigh down your luggage and airport fees can get expensive. Small ones, good for a radio or a very small appliance may only be a few pounds, but a large (1500VA) step down transformer weighs 20 to 30 pounds.

They are also readily available in Israel, and any local or chain hardware store will have a selection.

Many computers and monitors and many other small electronics will work ok on 220 volts. Read the label. My computer monitor says 110-220VAC 50-60Hz, as does the power supply for my laptop and the battery charger for my camera. For any of these I'd just need plug adapters.