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Non USA users - do you use an adapter or replace the plug? - Printable Version

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Non USA users - do you use an adapter or replace the plug? - kowlooner - 05-15-2016

This is more of a question about electricity supply and all. So, any electricians out there, this is for you!

If you bought a machine from the US but are using it elsewhere where the voltage is different and the plugs are a different shape, did you just use an adapter or did you switch out the plug on the power cord? And, is that safe?

I'm assuming it's not a hazard, though it might affect the warranty. And from what I understand, most CPAP machines are multi-voltage so it's just a matter of an adapter / plug shape. But please correct me if I'm wrong about that!

Thanks in advance.



RE: Non USA users - do you use an adapter or replace the plug? - chill - 05-15-2016

For the DreamStation, the power adaptor (aka brick) is external to the CPAP machine. It is multi-voltage. The electrical line from the wall to the adaptor unplugs. I assume that is so you can use a different electrical line in different countries. I don't see any danger in this. In fact, I think this is why they make them like this - it reduces manufacturing costs when selling to multiple areas as you only need to include a different line in the package.


RE: Non USA users - do you use an adapter or replace the plug? - surferdude2 - 05-15-2016

If your CPAP uses a "power brick", it will ordinarily be rated 100 ~ 240 @ 50/60 Hz/sec.. An adapter is all you need for operating anywhere that has a line voltage within that range. No need to cut the plug off and change it unless it's worn and needs replacing.

If you do need to replace the plug, it's pretty simple since it's a 2 conductor cord. If you will look at the power cord closely, you will notice that one of the individual wires has a ribbed jacket while the other one is smooth. The ribbed jacketed wire should be connected to the identified terminal of the plug. The identified terminal is the bright plated one, not the brass colored one. If there is no identified terminal, connect the ribbed conductor to terminal that goes to the right-hand side blade of the plug, as you view it from the plug face. That isn't really all that important since you can plug it in reversed at the wall given that this particular plug has no polarity protection method, such as a wide neutral blade or a round grounding blade like some others do.

Dude


RE: Non USA users - do you use an adapter or replace the plug? - mscottc - 05-15-2016

I just came back from using my Respironics Dreamstation and a whole host of other electronic gear in a 220 volt location. All you really need is the two pronged plug adapter that matches the location you are travelling to. Making sure you have the RIGHT adapter is the only really tricky part, though most hotels will have adapters that include the US Standard Plug

OTOH, if you are bringing multiple electronic devices, including your CPAP, I'd recommend this Universal surge protector/power strip along with a three prong grounded power adapter (again country specific). For anything that uses almost any power brick, from phones to your CPAP and your PCs, all the power bricks can handle 110-220 with no issue.

Search on Amazon for "Simran SM-60 Universal Power Strip 3 Outlets for 110V-250V Worldwide Travel with Surge/Overload Protection"
I have not yet reached the number of posts for me to include links.


RE: Non USA users - do you use an adapter or replace the plug? - surferdude2 - 05-15-2016

Of course will must always be aware that any 120 volt single rated voltage device will be destroyed if you merely use a plug adapter to plug it in to a 240 volt system! No magic protection there!

Always check the power specs. listed on the device. Many power adapters are not "Travel Rated" and will only work on 120 volts.

Dude



RE: Non USA users - do you use an adapter or replace the plug? - justMongo - 05-15-2016

We have a number of members who are in Australia.
IIRC, they are able to buy power cords for Resmed power bricks that plug directly into the sockets they use.

To quote from an old thread by member zonk: "...get an Aussie S8 power cord (works with S9 and AirSense 10 power supply) from Supplier #13..."

That won't work for Honk Kong because the wall sockets are different.


RE: Non USA users - do you use an adapter or replace the plug? - palerider - 05-15-2016

(05-15-2016, 09:21 AM)kowlooner Wrote: This is more of a question about electricity supply and all. So, any electricians out there, this is for you!

If you bought a machine from the US but are using it elsewhere where the voltage is different and the plugs are a different shape, did you just use an adapter or did you switch out the plug on the power cord? And, is that safe?

the *proper* answer is you buy a wall cord that's appropriate for your country

the wall to brick cord terminates with a IEC 60320/C7 international standard connector..

cords are available in most every country with the country specific plug on one end, and the IEC 60320/C7 on the other.

eg:

[Image: 2491018-40.jpg]

[Image: mWQ7G931JEhgPtt66BaoZNA.jpg]

[Image: IEC-60320-C7-connector.jpg]



RE: Non USA users - do you use an adapter or replace the plug? - zonk - 05-15-2016

(05-15-2016, 01:36 PM)justMongo Wrote: We have a number of members who are in Australia.
IIRC, they are able to buy power cords for Resmed power bricks that plug directly into the sockets they use.

To quote from an old thread by member zonk: "...get an Aussie S8 power cord (works with S9 and AirSense 10 power supply) from Supplier #13..."

That won't work for Honk Kong because the wall sockets are different.
justMongo is correct, I'm using locally bought S8 power cord instead the one that comes with the machine from US
I'm sure, there are power cords for some appliances might works too but haven't looked into them
Suitable plug adapter works as well

Q. Will my machine work in a foreign country?
http://www.resmed.com/au/en/consumer/support/therapy-and-maintenance/travel-faqs.html

A. Yes, your CPAP, APAP or bilevel sleep apnea machine will work in a foreign country, just make sure you pack the correct plug adapter for the country you're travelling to, because power outlets may differ between countries. Adapters can be bought from most electronics and travel stores, as well as in airports.



RE: Non USA users - do you use an adapter or replace the plug? - kowlooner - 05-16-2016

Thanks everybody, and especially Palerider. I hadn't even thought of that cord to brick connection. I might even have a few spares from old laptops lying around (assuming they're the same thing).

As for the 110/220 voltage difference, the machine (just arrived!) is a Respironics 560. Variable voltage brick.

Anyway, the reason I was asking was just to avoid having to use an adapter all the time since it's for home use. Just doesn't look as good. Takes up more space, too. Figured changing the plug was easy enough but wasn't sure if that was a good idea or not. I figured there wouldn't be a issue since it's just about socket shape, but I wasn't sure about if there might be a problem with grounding or something.

Also just FYI, in case the question comes up elsewhere, HK's plugs are the same as in the UK.

So, the next step is probably is quick hunt through a couple of stores to see if I can find a new cord with the IEC 60320/C7 connector.

Again, thanks for all the input!



RE: Non USA users - do you use an adapter or replace the plug? - Sleepster - 05-16-2016

(05-16-2016, 11:19 AM)kowlooner Wrote: Thanks everybody, and especially Palerider. I hadn't even thought of that cord to brick connection. I might even have a few spares from old laptops lying around (assuming they're the same thing).

They are.

Quote:So, the next step is probably is quick hunt through a couple of stores to see if I can find a new cord with the IEC 60320/C7 connector.

Your best bet is probably Amazon. Much better prices assuming you can wait for the delivery. Another option is the adapter. The one I have for the UK grid is pretty compact.