Please don't explode computer.

November 8, 2009 7:38 AM

US visiting UK, do I need an adapter or a converter for my laptop?

I just want to double check because I'd really rather not have my laptop explode when I visit the UK next month. The AC adapter for my laptop gives the following specs:

65W, 20V
INPUT: 100-240V~1.5A 50/60Hz
OUTPUT: 20V . . . 3.25A

My understanding is that I would only need an adapter for the plug and not a power converter. Am I correct? Thanks for the help.

posted by sepsis to travel & transportation (12 comments total)

Yes, you're right.
posted by essexjan at 7:43 AM on November 8

That is correct.
posted by grouse at 7:44 AM on November 8

This is what you need.
posted by essexjan at 7:45 AM on November 8

Adapter, definitely. Pop into Radio Shack (or wherever), or wait until you arrive and you can buy one in a tourist shop pretty much anywhere (for an inflated price).
posted by nitsuj at 7:51 AM on November 8

Actually, the price at the airport in Philly was better than Radio Shack's for a converter.
posted by theichibun at 8:01 AM on November 8

This is what you need.

If going to the UK, sepsis would be better off with this - UK plugs aren't compatible with those used in mainland Europe.
posted by Mike1024 at 8:02 AM on November 8

If you're staying in a decent hotel, they should give you an adapter to use.
posted by baggymp at 8:52 AM on November 8

Yes, my bad, Mike1024, I didn't look at the pin-end of the plug.
posted by essexjan at 10:27 AM on November 8

If your AC adapter comes in 2 parts (the cord that goes from the laptop and is connected to a small box, then another cord that plugs into that box and into the wall) you can purchase the UK equivalent of that second cord (such as this or this).
I have found that the sort of adapters linked above work just fine, except that often (if your device uses a 2-prong plug like an American device) the connection isn't very secure and it can be knocked loose by a strong wind. Not such a big deal if your laptop battery holds a charge and you occasionally glance to make sure it's still getting power from the wall.
posted by K.P. at 10:59 AM on November 8

What K.P. said -- for two-part adapters with a standard IEC connector (which includes Apple adapters, too) you can usually get the equivalent with a UK plug. Maplins in the UK will provide.
posted by holgate at 11:07 AM on November 8

Yes, and just to add some info, the 100-240V is the range that the box in the line from the laptop to the outlet can convert voltages from, so it can accept any voltage in that range. I used my laptop in the UK with the adapter listed above and there were no problems. Have fun!
posted by occidental at 12:59 PM on November 8

Yeah, cheap-o adapter to UK style plugs and don't count on British hotels having *anything* when you want it ;-)
posted by Maias at 6:41 PM on November 8