Retroduo Portable - will it work using a Japanese converter?

Hi everyone,



In May I bought a retroduo from Hawaii while on holiday. I haven't used in since I got back from Sydney but was hoping to use it again (it had been hiding in my closet - I rediscovered it when cleaning and remembered how awesome it was). Thing is, Australia obviously has a different voltage system, so I would most likely fry the retroduo when attempting to charge it if I plug it into an Australian powerpoint.



I DO however have an Australian to Japanese converter (I got it years ago for my JPN n64 console - though I quickly learned that If I use the australian power cord plugged into the JPN n64 console it works without issue connected to the powerpoint - though I never leave it in unattended just in case!).



I am just wondering if anyone knows whether the retroduo will work (i.e. recharge) If I plug it into my JPN converter? From my understanding the US uses 120 volts and Japan uses 100 volts (the JPN converter I have changes the voltage from 240 -> 100 volts). I know the htz also differs between the 2 countries. From what I have read there might just be less power than what it needs, so the worst I guess would be that it would take longer to recharge? 



Does anyone know if the JPN converter would work for the retroduo? I know I could always just try it, but I don't have much technical knowledge and I'm worried I might damage it somehow so thought I would get a second opinion.

Comments

  • Most modern AC adapters are actually switching power supplies, rather than the old linear type. If the AC adapter itself weighs very little, it's likely a switcher. If it *is*, then there's a chance it will work fine. Look carefully at the label on the power adapter. MOST will say something like 100-240v~ 50-60Hz. If it does say that, then you just need a plug converter and it will work - it autosenses the input voltage, and adjusts accordingly.



    If it's a heavy block, then it's a linear supply (transformer type). Plugging that in will smoke it. You're best getting a local AC adapter that has the proper output voltage/polarity/connector.



    So, in short, look at the label. If it says it'll work on 240, go ahead and plug it in. If not, get another AC adapter that will be compatible with your device.



    -Ian
  • Cool. The AC-DC adaptor on the retroduo does have "input: 100-240V 50-60hz" so I guess it will work directly into the powerpoint.



    I actually don't have a simple plug converter! Just the more complicated voltage transformer. I guess I will have to get a plug converter!
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