Usa to ireland

[ste2911]

Hi guys

Am traveling to USA later this year and want to no if I buy an iPad over there(wifi only)will it work here in Ireland updates etc etc?

 

[TheRambler]

I don't see a problem with updates, but Americas electricity is different to uk's.....there's is 110v and we are 240v
This would create problems, the plug socket will be different also.

 

[ste2911]

When u say problems?! Sorry im new to iPad stuff

 

[TheRambler]

Well they work on a lower power source than us, half the voltage, so just changing the plug to a 3 pin 240v one would burn out the transformer.
Does this make sense?

 

[TheRambler]

Try these also

What are the Electrical Voltage Differences Between the US and Europe?

Electrical systems - Wikitravel

 

[ste2911]

No sorry! So u mean changing the having the proper plug would still be no good

 

[TheRambler]

That's exactly it Ste, by just changing the plug, you would create a meltdown within the transformer.

 

[ste2911]

Damn!! There so much cheaper over there! Is there any alternative?

 

[TheRambler]

Check out how much a replacement uk transformer for the iPad is, see if it is still the cheaper option once you've bought it, it may still save you a few pounds

 

[TheRambler]

Changing the lead wouldn't work, from what I have just googled, the power transformer is within the iPad, sorry.

 

[TheRambler]

This may help

Want to Import a U.S. iPad? Here’s What You Should Know | iLounge Backstage

Never thought of USB charging!!

 

[ste2911]

Ok thanks very much for ur help!

 

[TheRambler]

I've just read the above link, some interesting stuff on there, certainly food for thought!!

 

[ste2911]

Ya had a quick look over it seems good thanks

 

[giradman71]

Hello Ste2911 - believe that The Rambler has provided you w/ much information and a number of detailed links about the issues involved w/ charging the iPad; just in summary there are 3 main issues:

1. The standard 'American' 110v charger is 10W, lower power 'rip offs' are offered but be careful in your choices - you need the right power for effective charging.

2. 110v vs. 220v - in Ireland your power supply from the wall is 220v - some type of transformer adapter is needed to down the voltage to 110v.

3. Wall plugs - as you likely already know, these will vary; a wall plug adapter may just be that, i.e. does not also down the voltage; of course, universal adapters that include both choosing different voltages and offering different plug-in adapters are available.

Just do some searching around - there are plenty of different options of solve this issue; just not a major problem to solve but you obviously need to understand the principles - good luck!