Running a 220v computer in a 110v environment - test-drb@ccmp.vtda.org

7 Oct 1999

The only safe way is to use a transformer that is correctly wired.  US mains is
120 - neutral - 120.  which gives 240 between the 2 hots.  European mains are
240 - neutral.  Both expect the neutral to be at / near ground potential.  If
you wire it to US 240 directly what was neutral in Europe will be at 120v.  I
have several isolation / step up transformers that I routinely use to accomplish
this.  You need to be careful how they are wired in order to have both primary
and secondary tied correctly to neutral and the grounds MUST be kept separate
...
 from the neutral to meet US electrical code. 
Dan
-----Original Message-----
From: Ram Meenakshisundaram &lt;rmeenaks(a)olf.com&gt;
To: Discussion re-collecting of classic computers &lt;classiccmp(a)u.washington.edu&gt;
Date: Thursday, October 07, 1999 10:19 AM
Subject: Running a 220v computer in a 110v environment

...
 Hi,

Probably some of you have already done this.  I have an equipment, a
parsytec xplorer, that runs a 220v.  I got it from across the pond.
Since I am in the states and the power output is 110v, is there any way
for me to run this without getting a transformer to pump it up to
220v???  Unfortunately, the parsytec doesnt convert automatically like
PC and laptops of today.  In my apartment, there is a funny looking plug
next to out AC.  I remember somewhat vaugely that it is actually 220v.
Is this true???  How did you guys solve this problem????  I want to get
a good solid response before I blow up the machine :-)

Ram

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