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dodger
26-12-2006, 10:55 AM
If like me you don't want to cut off the PC plug which will void your warranty, here is an alternative which is safe to use.

I ordered on of these USA (2 pin) to UK Converter Plug (ACP) from this website: EuroNetwork Ltd (http://www.euronetwork.co.uk/acatalog/US_Japan_China_to_UK.html)

Which fits on the PC like this

http://www.zen12100.zen.co.uk/detailingworld/pc/usaconverter_open1.gifhttp://www.zen12100.zen.co.uk/detailingworld/pc/usconverter_open2.gifhttp://www.zen12100.zen.co.uk/detailingworld/pc/usconverter_closedco.gif

so it ends up like this

http://www.zen12100.zen.co.uk/detailingworld/pc/PC260012.JPG

Next on the 110V extension lead remove the socket end and replace it with a rubber 3 pin socket like the one below.

http://www.zen12100.zen.co.uk/detailingworld/pc/PC260011.JPG

http://www.zen12100.zen.co.uk/detailingworld/pc/PC260010.JPG


Thats it plug it in and away you go, happy detailing without voiding the warranty :thumb:

xlfive
26-12-2006, 11:14 AM
Nice find matey:thumb:

alexsix
26-12-2006, 03:08 PM
Good work fella! I'll remeber this post for when I get my PC!

Dave KG
26-12-2006, 04:54 PM
Thats a good find that, it looks very neat! :thumb:

MazdaRX8
26-12-2006, 05:07 PM
:wall: :wall: wish i knew this yesterday morning before i made the snip :wall:

dodger
26-12-2006, 10:33 PM
I do loads of research before i buy anything thats how i found the parts and information needed to make this up.

MarkE
26-12-2006, 10:37 PM
Not sure I understand - if that adaptor doesn't convert the voltage then you still have to use the 110V transformer and extension lead (as you've shown).

So all you've done is fitted a slightly lighter plug / socket combo than before?

:confused:

Edit - got my head around it now - my PC came with a UK standard 110V plug on it, not a 2-prong USA one. Oops.

dodger
26-12-2006, 10:42 PM
Yeah, sorry, just to confirm.........

Yes you still need a step down transformer for 240V to 110V, all the adapter does is convert from US 2 pin to UK 3 pin which then fitted to the 3 pin socket.
The converter DOES NOT convert the voltage.

Rich
26-12-2006, 10:43 PM
Is the normal plug option not a little less safe for outdoor use than the yellow connectors? I am not to worried if the ground is still damp, but would be worried about anywater around with a normal plug out there.

dodger
26-12-2006, 10:46 PM
There could be a potential risk, but there is always a risk with water and mains voltage, i am looking into another (better) solution shortly :thumb:

Gaz W
27-12-2006, 07:44 PM
I don't really see the point in making that, as good guide as it is, what difference is it from just using 110v? :)

Gaz

AdamG
27-12-2006, 07:54 PM
I don't really see the point in making that, as good guide as it is, what difference is it from just using 110v? :)

Gaz


It doesn't involve opening up the casing of the PC so it is a handy way of doing it.

I wouldn't have a 3 pin UK plug though, I'd be worried about someone else (Family or friend) plugging it into a 240v mains plug.

dodger
27-12-2006, 08:06 PM
All this guide serves is for people who do not want to open up their PC or remove the 2 pin plug which will void the warranty if it goes wrong. It's as simple as that.

Gaz W
28-12-2006, 08:18 PM
It doesn't involve opening up the casing of the PC so it is a handy way of doing it.

I wouldn't have a 3 pin UK plug though, I'd be worried about someone else (Family or friend) plugging it into a 240v mains plug.

Yeah thats my worry too, or me forgetting! :(

L200 Steve
28-12-2006, 08:59 PM
Nice idea:thumb:

Could you not just have fit one of these to the end of the 110V extension?

Link (http://www.maplin.co.uk/Module.aspx?TabID=1&DOY=28m12&ModuleNo=1476&criteria=)

A bit simpler, and a lot safer in my opinion:thumb:

dodger
28-12-2006, 09:02 PM
No because it does not fit and it is not keyed like the PC connector

My next idea is to fit one of these or a yellow waterproof one

http://www.burrowselec.co.uk/g_e.ht1.jpg

dodger
28-12-2006, 09:04 PM
It doesn't involve opening up the casing of the PC so it is a handy way of doing it.

I wouldn't have a 3 pin UK plug though, I'd be worried about someone else (Family or friend) plugging it into a 240v mains plug.

Could spray it yellow or write 110V only ;)

Chris_4536
31-12-2006, 01:17 AM
Could spray it yellow or write 110V only ;)

Or just unclip it and keep seperate so that no Flid blows up your PC :thumb:

hissinsid
31-12-2006, 07:24 PM
Looks tidy and I thought about doing the same when I purchased my PC, but why do you have to open the casing on the PC? I didn't on mine, just cut the American plug off and replaced. Also I thought the warranty on the PC is not valid in Europe anyway?

KingBoyJ
02-01-2007, 03:25 PM
No because it does not fit and it is not keyed like the PC connector

My next idea is to fit one of these or a yellow waterproof one

http://www.burrowselec.co.uk/g_e.ht1.jpg

That's what I've done with mine, having seen an earlier post by Dodger on this :thumb: Plus someone confirmed with Autopia that they'd honour the warranty in the UK but not if the plug had been cut off.

Spotted it on Ebay US & cost about £5 delivered iirc - look like this now:-

http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a399/jonny3000/IMG_1505.jpg

http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a399/jonny3000/IMG_1507.jpg

dodger
02-01-2007, 10:04 PM
That's what I've done with mine, having seen an earlier post by Dodger on this :thumb: Plus someone confirmed with Autopia that they'd honour the warranty in the UK but not if the plug had been cut off.

Spotted it on Ebay US & cost about £5 delivered iirc - look like this now:-

http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a399/jonny3000/IMG_1505.jpg

http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a399/jonny3000/IMG_1507.jpg

Well done mate that's what i wanted to do in the long run but you have beaten me to it.:thumb: Could you sent me the ebay link so i can order one.

KingBoyJ
02-01-2007, 11:35 PM
Well done mate that's what i wanted to do in the long run but you have beaten me to it.:thumb: Could you sent me the ebay link so i can order one.

PM sent

And thanks for the inspiration :thumb:

matty_corsa
03-01-2007, 10:28 PM
hmm this loooks cool so u wire one of these bad boys onto a extension cable and plug her in a off u go? and no cuttin needed? hmm might be my soultion hey kingboyj could you link me one of those connectors please thanks matt :D

EddieB
04-01-2007, 07:51 PM
Can you also PM me the link KingBoyJ?

Ta

matty_corsa
04-01-2007, 10:06 PM
ok well ordered one last night and a extension cable so all i need now is a transformer and im sorted very nice little end for the pc saves cutting wires and seems to be quite a good job :thumb:

deej
04-01-2007, 10:19 PM
Any chance someone could PM me a link to?

Breeze_Blue
05-01-2007, 09:47 PM
Hey guys,

any chance you could pm me the link as well

thanks.

dodger
05-01-2007, 09:50 PM
Any chance someone could PM me a link to?

Hey guys,

any chance you could pm me the link as well

thanks.


PM's sent :wave:

Brazo
05-01-2007, 10:47 PM
By all means post the link guys if it will help DW members :thumb:

KingBoyJ
05-01-2007, 11:11 PM
Guys,

I didn't post a link here because it's something I bought from eBay & I didn't want to splash my eBay details all over the site. I don't actually have any dodgy purchases to hide :D but you know how it is & no disrespect intended to DW members here at all. Also, not everyone viewing DW is a registered member so I'd rather choose what info of mine goes into the public domain.

The seller I bought from is http://pics.ebaystatic.com/aw/pics/uk/s.gifdinoright (with the bizarre slogan This deal is dino-mite because it's DinoRight! - :confused: ) though I'm not sure if they have any on at the moment. You can search eBay on the seller name but I've no problem providing the link to the actual item via PM (& have done a few times already) :thumb:

H2H,

Jonny

cravensmythe
10-01-2007, 04:39 PM
I contacted dinoright and he says he has not got anymore so I wondered if anyone had found another reasonably priced source for them.

I can see I will still end up cutting the plug off the PC yet!

dodger
10-01-2007, 08:00 PM
There is a company local to me which sell them i think, was going to talk to them for ordering a couple.

cravensmythe
10-01-2007, 09:58 PM
Sounds good, if they are reasonably priced could you possible get me one and post it?

Breeze_Blue
10-01-2007, 11:13 PM
Hi dodger,

If you could find out if the company near you sell them that would be great and possibly arrange delivery if not would it possible to supply contact details via pm so i can go about ordering one

Thanks.

EddieB
15-01-2007, 08:33 PM
Dodger - any luck with your local shop?

Ta Ed

dodger
15-01-2007, 09:40 PM
sorry chaps forgot all about it :o here are the details

Burrows Electrical Wholesale Ltd
Railway St,
Chelmsford,
Essex
CM1 1QS
Tel: 01245 357066

http://www.burrowselec.co.uk/

EddieB
15-01-2007, 09:43 PM
Champion... i'll drop them a mail sometime this week,

cravensmythe
16-01-2007, 09:27 AM
Well I spotted mini_nigels group buy had come to the point of ordering so I have paid up with him and hopefully should be receiving a shiny new cable soon

Breeze_Blue
27-01-2007, 07:58 PM
Hi Dodger,

Thanks for the contact of the shop great guys very helpfull and the plug works a treat no cutting of the plug which is excatly what i wanted. i can now have many happy days pcing my car.

Thanks again.

johnlondonw3
27-01-2007, 09:16 PM
Hi Dodger,

Thanks for the contact of the shop great guys very helpfull and the plug works a treat no cutting of the plug which is excatly what i wanted. i can now have many happy days pcing my car.

Thanks again.

How much was it ?

cheers :thumb:

Breeze_Blue
27-01-2007, 09:50 PM
How much was it ?

cheers :thumb:



Hi John

You have PM.:thumb:

306chris
14-02-2007, 05:27 PM
Hi John

You have PM.:thumb:

Found one of these if its any use to anyone, shipping is about 5 dollars

http://cgi.ebay.com/15A-125V-straight-blade-ground-connector-Leviton-515-CV_W0QQitemZ160085067630QQihZ006QQcategoryZ109440Q QssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem?hash=item1600 85067630

Craig1980
15-02-2007, 06:19 PM
Does anyone know the part number to order from Burrows? I had phoned earlier on today but I seemed to just confuse the guy by saying what I was looking for.

stupidmonkfish
15-02-2007, 06:24 PM
can someone PM me the ebay link for the connecter??
Cheers

dodger
15-02-2007, 06:49 PM
Does anyone know the part number to order from Burrows? I had phoned earlier on today but I seemed to just confuse the guy by saying what I was looking for.

Part No. PS5269-X.

You can view this item on our website http://www.burrowselec.co.uk/g_e.htm

These are priced at £12.87 each + vat.

dodger
15-02-2007, 06:49 PM
can someone PM me the ebay link for the connecter??
Cheers

Which connector are you refering to?

Breeze_Blue
15-02-2007, 09:30 PM
Hi Craig,

When i ordered one the other week, I just asked for the Pass & Seymour 5269x and they know what i was on about might be worth another try tomorrow.

Craig1980
15-02-2007, 11:12 PM
Yeah I'm going to call again tomorrow, pc should arrive tomorrow too, cant wait! Picked up 14m extension cable at b&q for £9.99 which seemed good as most places tend to have 10m. On a down side I've not used the car for a few weeks so tonight the battery didnt feel like turning the engine over, quick charge tomorrow hopefully solve that, then I'll need to get a few dents in the paintwork sorted before I pc it, after practise of course.

Mutton
16-02-2007, 08:46 AM
My Porter Cable arrived yesterday and all I can say is I'm glad I saw this thread before I cut the plug off!! Going to pop over to Chelmsford today to pick up a plug!

dodger
21-02-2007, 09:09 PM
Found one of these if its any use to anyone, shipping is about 5 dollars

http://cgi.ebay.com/15A-125V-straight-blade-ground-connector-Leviton-515-CV_W0QQitemZ160085067630QQihZ006QQcategoryZ109440Q QssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem?hash=item1600 85067630


I ordered one of these on Thursday and it arrived today and only cost £3.94 including delivery :D

alexsix
23-02-2007, 12:08 AM
I ordered one of these on Thursday and it arrived today and only cost £3.94 including delivery :D


Dude, is that what I need to wire on to my 110V extension cable so that I don't have to cut the plug off my PC? Is so I'm going to purchase!:)

Breeze_Blue
23-02-2007, 12:17 AM
Hi Alex,

Yes mate that is exactly what you require there is a web address a few page's back of a supplier over here.

hope this helps.

alexsix
23-02-2007, 12:28 AM
Hi Alex,

Yes mate that is exactly what you require there is a web address a few page's back of a supplier over here.

hope this helps.

I got in touch with the seller over here (Chelmsford) and they want about £18! all in!. Compared to £4 that sounds more like it!

Kevan
24-02-2007, 08:57 PM
Just ordered my american socket off ebay.com all being delivered for just over £3 incl del.

No cutting, no void warranty, no worries :thumbs:

Thanks for the website links

Kev

spitfire
24-02-2007, 10:39 PM
I noticed that when ordering the yellow 110v 16A cable that there are two diameters, 1.5mm and 2.5mm. How do you decide what you need?:confused:

globyxl420
25-02-2007, 08:17 AM
'15A 125V straight blade ground connector Leviton 515-CV'
Just orderd one of these £3.18 delivered :doublesho

PC_BOTT
25-02-2007, 10:10 AM
I noticed that when ordering the yellow 110v 16A cable that there are two diameters, 1.5mm and 2.5mm. How do you decide what you need?:confused:

1.5mm will be plenty big enough, could run a 3kw heater off this, PC is only 3.7 amps, you could get away with 1.0mm if you wanted, but suggest you use the 1.5mm.

spitfire
25-02-2007, 10:13 AM
Thanks for that. Lecky's not my thing.

Beancounter
26-02-2007, 12:56 PM
Found one of these if its any use to anyone, shipping is about 5 dollars

http://cgi.ebay.com/15A-125V-straight-blade-ground-connector-Leviton-515-CV_W0QQitemZ160085067630QQihZ006QQcategoryZ109440Q QssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem?hash=item1600 85067630

Great find :thumb: , I ordered one of these last week and it only took three days to deliver.

Matt306
01-03-2007, 06:19 PM
ive ordered the 1st thing mentioned, and im going to wrap tape around the connection from the plug to the extension to save it from water and losing warranty,Mat

mk2
02-03-2007, 02:10 PM
'15A 125V straight blade ground connector Leviton 515-CV'
Just orderd one of these £3.18 delivered :doublesho

Me too, excellent tip! :thumb:

alexsix
05-03-2007, 07:44 PM
Great find :thumb: , I ordered one of these last week and it only took three days to deliver.

Right chaps, I've received mine today, only one potential problem though.

When you wire the plug up which wires go into which terminals? I assume Earth goes into the one marked GR (ground), how do you know about the other two though as they are not labeled live/neutral?

Am i being a bit dense here or wot?:speechles

dodger
05-03-2007, 08:30 PM
Click here (http://web.onetel.net.uk/~uncletony/mains%20stuff.htm)


Two-pin plugs, sockets and extension cords are usually polarized - the smaller pin is the power 'hot' (live) and often brass coloured. The 'low' (neutral) side is the larger white-metal pin.

alexsix
05-03-2007, 08:32 PM
Click here (http://web.onetel.net.uk/~uncletony/mains%20stuff.htm)

Excellent I'll check mine. Do I Still need to connec t the Earth to the ground terminal?:confused:

Beancounter
05-03-2007, 08:55 PM
When you wire the plug up which wires go into which terminals? I assume Earth goes into the one marked GR (ground), how do you know about the other two though as they are not labeled live/neutral?


Try here (http://www.leadsdirect.f9.co.uk/americanplugwiring.htm) too. :thumb:

dodger
05-03-2007, 09:09 PM
Excellent I'll check mine. Do I Still need to connec t the Earth to the ground terminal?:confused:

you don't need to cos its not needed, but i did just to maintain good practice.

alexsix
06-03-2007, 07:24 AM
Thanks chaps I now have one PC that is operational!

Kevan
06-03-2007, 12:59 PM
My socket arrived from the states in less than a week.

Kev

Maxtor
20-03-2007, 12:17 PM
[QUOTE=dodger;203319]If like me you don't want to cut off the PC plug which will void your warranty, here is an alternative which is safe to use.

I ordered on of these USA (2 pin) to UK Converter Plug (ACP) from this website: EuroNetwork Ltd (http://www.euronetwork.co.uk/acatalog/US_Japan_China_to_UK.html)

Which fits on the PC like this

http://www.zen12100.zen.co.uk/detailingworld/pc/usaconverter_open1.gifhttp://www.zen12100.zen.co.uk/detailingworld/pc/usconverter_open2.gifhttp://www.zen12100.zen.co.uk/detailingworld/pc/usconverter_closedco.gif

Hi,

How do you fit this plug? Does it matter what prong on the pc goes to what side of the plug? I just got my plug today and want to check first.

Thanks

Beancounter
20-03-2007, 01:57 PM
It should only fit in one way.....as one blade on the plug is wider than the other. :thumb:

Maxtor
20-03-2007, 06:53 PM
It should only fit in one way.....as one blade on the plug is wider than the other. :thumb:

:rolleyes: ;)

DOH! I had a quick play this morning and did not notice that. Thanks mate:thumb:

Also thanks to all of you who have helped me to get this PC sorted.

I am now up and running. I just need my first victim, errrmm customer :eek: :thumb: :buffer:

kp 115
20-03-2007, 09:27 PM
Sorry for jumping in the middle of this post but the US uses 110-125v & we use 240v can the pc actually handle the voltage different?

I wouldn't like anyone to ruin their new expensive tool.

MattFletcher
20-03-2007, 09:36 PM
we are all using 110v with our PC's thats why we are buying the 240v to 11v transformers.

the one above with the 3 pin plug, is only to make it easyer to connect with out cutting the plug off. it still 110v through a transformer

240v would kill the pc

Forbez
21-03-2007, 09:25 AM
I've tried ordering the one from Ebay, (yellow plug) but it wont allow my to purchase it, without working out the Delivary costs which is wont take unless its american!

Any idea's anyone??

Beancounter
21-03-2007, 09:32 AM
Just contact the seller for a rate, I found he responded very quickly.

He'll tell you the price, then click and add to basket, when you pay with paypal, adjust the postage according to the price he tells you.:)

Forbez
21-03-2007, 02:43 PM
I did contact him, but he advised to use the system on the page, which doesnt seem to work, it also wont allow me to add it to my basket without changing the postage.

Forbez
21-03-2007, 03:17 PM
And ignore me, looks like my PC was playing up, all ordered now.

vxrob
21-03-2007, 05:46 PM
So is this as simple as it sounds? You lop off one end of the ext cable, and attach the US socket? I've ordered one anyways, about 4 quid :D

dodger
21-03-2007, 08:10 PM
So is this as simple as it sounds? You lop off one end of the ext cable, and attach the US socket? I've ordered one anyways, about 4 quid :D

That is exactly what you need to do :D

Milzeh
07-04-2007, 11:20 PM
:wall: :wall: wish i knew this yesterday morning before i made the snip :wall:

Don't worry mate, it's not like you've had your foreskin removed! I think the PC will last you a lifetime if you keep it clean & store it right. Warrenty means nothing to me as I bought it from the USA I'm not gonna bother sending it back anyhows. Enjoy!

dodger
09-04-2007, 02:06 PM
Once you have a 5-15R type socket like the one here (http://cgi.ebay.com/15A-125V-straight-blade-ground-connector-Leviton-515-CV_W0QQitemZ160085067630QQihZ006QQcategoryZ109440Q QssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem?hash=item1600 85067630).

Removed the 110V yellow socket and fit the 5-15R type socket.

NOTE: The Larger Pin is the NEUTRAL and the POSTIVE is the Smaller Pin. I connected the earth which isn't used to maintain good practice.

http://www.zen12100.zen.co.uk/detailingworld/pc/P4090003.JPG

http://www.zen12100.zen.co.uk/detailingworld/pc/P4090002.JPG

Now the PC can be connected to the socket.

http://www.zen12100.zen.co.uk/detailingworld/pc/P4090006.JPG

Hope this helps.

Bo2007
15-04-2007, 08:08 PM
legendary mate, just ordered mine so should come shortly!

ShazUK
03-05-2007, 08:05 PM
NOTE: The Larger Pin is the NEUTRAL and the POSTIVE is the Smaller Pin. I connected the earth which isn't used to maintain good practice.


As above, just done this.

For anyone that needs instructions in black and white:

Yellow/green (Neutral) goes in to the top roundish contact
Blue goes in to the longer slot (bottom left)
Brown goes in to the shorter slot (bottom right)

releaseyourself
03-05-2007, 08:09 PM
I just used this method!

Perfect job too!

easytease
16-05-2007, 07:31 AM
Once you have a 5-15R type socket like the one here (http://cgi.ebay.com/15A-125V-straight-blade-ground-connector-Leviton-515-CV_W0QQitemZ160085067630QQihZ006QQcategoryZ109440Q QssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem?hash=item1600 85067630).

Removed the 110V yellow socket and fit the 5-15R type socket.

NOTE: The Larger Pin is the NEUTRAL and the POSTIVE is the Smaller Pin. I connected the earth which isn't used to maintain good practice.

http://www.zen12100.zen.co.uk/detailingworld/pc/P4090003.JPG

http://www.zen12100.zen.co.uk/detailingworld/pc/P4090002.JPG

Now the PC can be connected to the socket.

http://www.zen12100.zen.co.uk/detailingworld/pc/P4090006.JPG

Hope this helps.


sory to dig up an oldish thread, but i can seem to find this plug on ebay, well atleast no currant auctions. Anyone able to help?

Harley
16-05-2007, 08:15 AM
Not quite the same but is what you asked :thumb:

http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&ih=015&sspagename=STRK%3AMEWA%3AIT&viewitem=&item=250026454797&rd=1&rd=1

Beancounter
16-05-2007, 08:41 AM
sory to dig up an oldish thread, but i can seem to find this plug on ebay, well atleast no currant auctions. Anyone able to help?

This (http://www.westsidewholesale.com/index.cgi?HN_SessionID=@@@@1179304454.14167@@@@&pid=971709&CATEGORY=3291) place have the same ones, could be worth sending them an email to see if they will send it across.

Either that, try sending the original ebay seller a message, he may just be temporarily out of stock as they are an electrical retailers.:thumb:

Gobbie
27-05-2007, 06:49 PM
I've just rigged up my PC the same as in the pics in Dodgers post (no 81, page 9) and it's a great solution. I wasn't worried about cutting off the original plug or replacing the cable because the reality is that if something went wrong with the PC, it would be far too much hassle to send it back to the US anyway.......making the warranty unimportant to me.

It's a cheap and fast solution. One of the main benefits is that the cable with the PC is much softer and flexible than my 110V cables, so I'm happier with the original cable being against the car rather than the hard yellow stuff. The original cable is long enough for me so as not to worry about the trailing plug, although I have thrown it over my shoulder a couple of times to keep it off the paint when polishing the roof......worked fine for me.

Someone should make that part of this post a sticky.....not the whole thing.

wfenix
08-06-2007, 10:46 PM
i have done it dodgers way also cost me 3 quid off flea bay and pickup a panel mounted transformer for nothing so i can make my own trans box with 3 pin socket so no hassle and was lucky enough to get it for zero so i saved £50 bucks, thanks dodger warranty not invalid now top tip

dodger
08-06-2007, 10:48 PM
no problem, glad to help with alternatives

darms
15-06-2007, 02:35 PM
Leviton 515cv

dodger
15-06-2007, 06:23 PM
that is the right one mate, but reading the info he doesn't ship to the UK

darms
25-06-2007, 12:18 PM
......

steelej
26-06-2007, 07:29 PM
Guys,

Is it possible just to use one of these transformers for the PC, removing the need to remove plugs etc

http://www.maplin.co.uk/module.aspx?ModuleNo=31899&doy=26m6

Sorry if this has been asked before, couldn't see it.

John.

dodger
26-06-2007, 08:00 PM
I don't think this suitable to run a PC, the power output isn't enough

Guys,

Is it possible just to use one of these transformers for the PC, removing the need to remove plugs etc

http://www.maplin.co.uk/module.aspx?ModuleNo=31899&doy=26m6

Sorry if this has been asked before, couldn't see it.

John.

steelej
26-06-2007, 08:54 PM
Bummer, you don't happen to know the power output the PC requires?

John.

dodger
26-06-2007, 09:11 PM
Not sure what the power the PC requires, but the majority of people use 750VA transformers

Bummer, you don't happen to know the power output the PC requires?

John.

beggers
26-06-2007, 09:49 PM
750VA, 1kVA or 3kVA. i think 750 being the minimum from what i've read.

dodger
27-06-2007, 05:52 PM
Bummer, you don't happen to know the power output the PC requires?

John.

Looking on the label on the PC it stated

120V @ 3.4A

Cally
15-08-2007, 04:26 PM
I got one of the yellow plugs of ebay from america, but unsure on how to wire it. Anyone got a tutorial?

dodger
15-08-2007, 05:46 PM
The Larger Pin is the NEUTRAL and the POSTIVE is the Smaller Pin. I also connected the earth which isn't used but just to maintain good practice.

beardboy
18-08-2007, 04:08 PM
If i got one of these:
http://www.maplin.co.uk/Module.aspx?ModuleNo=13134&TabID=1&C=SEO&U=SEOsearchPages&doy=search
and one of these:
http://www.euronetwork.co.uk/acatalog/US_Japan_China_to_UK.html

It should do the same job?

dodger
18-08-2007, 08:27 PM
^^^^ that was the first solution (http://www.detailingworld.co.uk/forum/showpost.php?p=203319&postcount=1) before changing it for the second solution, TBH the second solution (http://www.detailingworld.co.uk/forum/showpost.php?p=313282&postcount=81) is the cheaper and better one.

beardboy
18-08-2007, 10:00 PM
I'm not fussed about cost, but why is the second solution better?

Eazy
19-08-2007, 12:04 AM
jus to prevent any family member or friend pluggin the PC straight into the socket by accident i guess

dodger
19-08-2007, 09:15 AM
jus to prevent any family member or friend pluggin the PC straight into the socket by accident i guess

you got it

beardboy
19-08-2007, 09:17 AM
Ok, fair enough.

Do you know of anywhere in the UK that sells the part i need for method 2 above?

Cheers

dodger
19-08-2007, 09:28 AM
There is a company here or try ebay, IRC mine cost £4 inc delivery from the USA on ebay.

Burrows Electrical Wholesale Ltd
Railway St,
Chelmsford,
Essex
CM1 1QS
Tel: 01245 357066

http://www.burrowselec.co.uk/

SteveOC
20-08-2007, 08:19 PM
There is a company here or try ebay, IRC mine cost £4 inc delivery from the USA on ebay.

Burrows Electrical Wholesale Ltd
Railway St,
Chelmsford,
Essex
CM1 1QS
Tel: 01245 357066

http://www.burrowselec.co.uk/

Somebody on here quoted these folks as wanting £18 delivered for one - don't know if that is true???

In the past, I tried a couple of the suppliers people used previously, and they had none, nor any plans to restock, so I had did some digging over the weekend (again)

There is an active Ebay US auction for 20 of these (was at $20 or maybe $30 when I looked), although the seller stated shipping to US only).

There is an active Ebay US auction for 10 at a BIN of $40 and the seller quotes $28 or $42 for shipping (depending on method) but this is over the customs duty threshold of £18 for duty, and will attract VAT too I think, not a lot but it all adds up.

The problem is, it is hard to find anybody quoting less than $20 shipping on a $3-$5 item, so you either need to buy a batch and sell them on to folks on DW, or pay £10 in postage for just 1 connector. Given the imminent (?) arrival of the 240v UDM, there may not be many people interested in these soon anyway, even if at all now.

If folks on here were able to get them for £4 or less delivered, then I wonder what has changed?

In the end, I actually ordered a few from another seller (not on Ebay) today, and hopefully all being well they'll be here before too long, but I have no idea how long they'll take to get here.

Beardboy, I decided that I didn't want to get into selling / shipping stuff to folks but as I am not too far from Bath, if you still want one when (if) mine arrive, I could maybe arrange to get one to you.

Steve O.

beardboy
20-08-2007, 08:44 PM
Mate, that sounds like a deal.

Where are you based?

How much are we looking for one?

Fat Audi 80
20-08-2007, 08:53 PM
Is the normal plug option not a little less safe for outdoor use than the yellow connectors? I am not to worried if the ground is still damp, but would be worried about anywater around with a normal plug out there.

Precisely. Which is why I have CUT my us plug off and fitted a UK 110v site type that connects to a UK 110v site extension then connects to the UK 3 pin out the back of the transformer back in the garage away from water etc.

I obviously understand this *could* invalidate my warranty but rather that than invalidate myself! :D

Cheers,

Steve.

SteveOC
20-08-2007, 09:22 PM
Precisely. Which is why I have CUT my us plug off and fitted a UK 110v site type that connects to a UK 110v site extension then connects to the UK 3 pin out the back of the transformer back in the garage away from water etc.

I obviously understand this *could* invalidate my warranty but rather that than invalidate myself! :D

Cheers,

Steve.

I had exactly the same thoughts - then it occurred to me that people in the US must surely be using these safely with the supplied plugs?

As it is, I will probably try it out retaining the supplied US lead and plug, and *maybe* replace the lead and plug when the warranty runs out, but to be honest I avoid using any electrical appliance (vacuum cleaner etc) on wet ground anyway.

If anything, I will probably replace the supplied lead rather than cut the plug off, so there are no connectors at all.

Steve O.

Steve O.

Fat Audi 80
20-08-2007, 09:30 PM
I had exactly the same thoughts - then it occurred to me that people in the US must surely be using these safely with the supplied plugs?

As it is, I will probably try it out retaining the supplied US lead and plug, and *maybe* replace the lead and plug when the warranty runs out, but to be honest I avoid using any electrical appliance (vacuum cleaner etc) on wet ground anyway.

If anything, I will probably replace the supplied lead rather than cut the plug off, so there are no connectors at all.

Steve O.

Steve O.


Yes, even better replace the whole lead, if you can do that without it being obvious. Any warranty claim, you can put the original lead back on... :thumb:

Good thinking.

SteveOC
20-08-2007, 09:35 PM
Mate, that sounds like a deal.

Where are you based?

How much are we looking for one?

Beardboy: I don't want you to get your too high (LOL)!

I held out for a few weeks on replacing the cable on mine when 'Darms' on here was getting a job lot of these from the US and then it all fell through.
The only reason I still haven't replaced the cable is that I have had no time to do anything due to workload in the interim, so I have had no time to use the PC.

I am not far from Trowbridge and Melksham.
I'll PM you when (if) they arrive as to 'cost', but we are only talking about a few pounds (<£5) at the very most, so if you get impatient to get started, and decide to replace the plug or cable then just go ahead - I know I probably would!:thumb:

Steve O.

beardboy
20-08-2007, 09:40 PM
I want to get started asap, but don't really want to chop the plug off yet, as i went for the UDM.

I'd rather hold on for a little while, and get one of these really, but if somewhere in the UK crops up, i'll probably go ahead and get one.

Cheers

Beancounter
21-08-2007, 09:18 AM
Don't know how much this (http://cgi.ebay.com/LEVITON-15W47-5-15R-WET-GUARD-CONNECTOR-15A-125V_W0QQitemZ300142814811QQihZ020QQcategoryZ10018 1QQcmdZViewItem) company would want to ship to the UK, but could be worth contacting them. Its also suitable for outdoor use.:)

SteveOC
21-08-2007, 07:56 PM
Don't know how much this (http://cgi.ebay.com/LEVITON-15W47-5-15R-WET-GUARD-CONNECTOR-15A-125V_W0QQitemZ300142814811QQihZ020QQcategoryZ10018 1QQcmdZViewItem) company would want to ship to the UK, but could be worth contacting them. Its also suitable for outdoor use.:)

Well here is my take on that.............

I looked at the Wetguard system and another 'locking' system by Leviton.
However, you would need to buy the corresponding plug for that system(Wetguard or 'locking') to make it work as intended (Wetguard uses tongue and groove between the plug/connector apparently), and cut off the supplied plug on the PC.
If you are going to cut off the supplied plug, and invalidate the warranty, you might as well fit a UK commando plug for £1.50.

Well, to be a little more precise, if you have that Wetguard connector in your link, the supplied plug would 'probably' fit - but other than a slight overlap of the yellow collar, it would be no more waterproof than the other connector when in use, although probably no worse.

I also want to try attaching other US devices to my Leviton connector (once I am sure there are no issues with this), and the plug/adapters on them would not fit into that Wetguard connector, so it isn't suitable for my needs.

Steve O.

Beancounter
21-08-2007, 08:07 PM
^^^^^
No worries, see what you mean about the collar.

The guy I bought from originally had over 50 of them for sale and was an electrical retailer called Regal Electric Supply I think, it says on his ebay shop to mail him on ev3510@fullchannel.net if somethings not listed. Worth a try.

SteveOC
21-08-2007, 08:50 PM
^^^^^
No worries, see what you mean about the collar.

The guy I bought from originally had over 50 of them for sale and was an electrical retailer called Regal Electric Supply I think, it says on his ebay shop to mail him on ev3510@fullchannel.net if somethings not listed. Worth a try.

Thanks for the info, but hopefully mine are already en-route from the US.

I might still look around for something that fits over both the plug and the connector - sure I've seen the sort of thing I have in mind (maybe Maplin), it's for outdoor connections.

Steve O.

FurioAL
23-08-2007, 01:08 AM
Im having massive difficulty finding one of the female flat blade sockets end plugs... like this one..

http://www.zen12100.zen.co.uk/detailingworld/pc/P4090003.JPG

There seem to be lots on ebay.com but none that post to the UK.. does anyone have any direct links to either UK companies that sell them, US companies that post them or anywhere else i can get one! Feel free to PM me...

I have emailed the UK company in essex.. but by the sound if it they are expensive...

Any help would be appreciated!

Many thanks,
Alex
:)

Beancounter
23-08-2007, 09:22 AM
I've not used them but this (http://www.fruitridgetools.com/StoreFrontProfiles/DeluxeSFItemDetail.aspx?sfid=136763&i=15098481&c=0) company seem to have the connector at a reasonable ($1.95) price and ship to the UK for $5.60, so $7.55 in total. :)

beardboy
23-08-2007, 10:14 AM
Thanks for the link.

I know nothing of electrics, but is that definately the same, as i'll order one now.

Thanks

Beancounter
23-08-2007, 10:20 AM
^^^^
Yes, looks exactly the same and by the same manufacturer as the one I bought from the guy off ebay.

FurioAL
23-08-2007, 10:26 AM
Thanks for the link :)

I have just ordered one.. wasn't sure about which postage to select though mind.. i sent it for $5.60 US air mail letter post.. but surely that's too big for a letter? oh well.. they let me select it :p

Works out costing £3-4... will let you know how long it takes :)

Thanks again
Alex
:)

beardboy
23-08-2007, 10:32 AM
You got the last one! I can't order one! Doh!

FurioAL
23-08-2007, 10:40 AM
You got the last one! I can't order one! Doh!

Ooops, sorry bud!

If it's any consellation there is a UK retailer that sells them.. i got an email back just after ordering that one..

The link is previously on this thread, but there website is naffy with no prices...

We have these in stock. Part no. 5269-X. Including VAT and postage these would cost you £15.12 each

http://www.burrowselec.co.uk/5269X_ColorHiRes_small1.jpg (http://www.burrowselec.co.uk/5269X_ColorHiRes.jpg)
Click to enlarge

http://www.burrowselec.co.uk/

Alex
:)

beardboy
23-08-2007, 10:47 AM
Nice one :thumb:

I've just emailed them asking how to pay, so hopefully will get it before you do :lol:

:thumb:

FurioAL
23-08-2007, 12:14 PM
Nice one :thumb:

I've just emailed them asking how to pay, so hopefully will get it before you do :lol:

:thumb:

pfff but mine's yellow :driver:

beardboy
23-08-2007, 01:33 PM
Ordered and should get it tomorrow as it's being posted 1st class :thumb:

Cheers

beardboy
25-08-2007, 04:10 PM
Mine came next day and am going to fit it today! :thumb:

BBcompound
11-09-2007, 10:25 AM
Anyone having trouble getting one of these?

Seems that 'they know' they are in demand and hiking the prices up!!

Toolsmet out of stock & Burrows wants £28.00!! Ebay - cannot find one, and like many i do not want to remove the plug and void the warranty....

Any links?

BB

Beancounter
11-09-2007, 11:02 AM
Not that much help for you at the moment, but.......
I've got another one for myself and a couple of spares coming back with a relative who's over in the US at the moment (they found them in a local DIY store), but unfortunatly I won't have them until the end of the month. As soon as I get them in my hand I'll stick a post up in the 'personal sales section' :thumb:.

BBcompound
11-09-2007, 01:31 PM
Not that much help for you at the moment, but.......
I've got another one for myself and a couple of spares coming back with a relative who's over in the US at the moment (they found them in a local DIY store), but unfortunatly I won't have them until the end of the month. As soon as I get them in my hand I'll stick a post up in the 'personal sales section' :thumb:.


If you can give me a 'pre-sales' warning pm - mucho appreciato!!!

BB

Beancounter
11-09-2007, 01:49 PM
If you can give me a 'pre-sales' warning pm - mucho appreciato!!!

No problem :)

markymark
11-09-2007, 07:43 PM
I found these which are similar:-
http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=250129305922&sspagename=ADME:X:RTQ:UK:11

http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=250121980188

dodger
11-09-2007, 08:07 PM
I found these which are similar:-
http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=250129305922&sspagename=ADME:X:RTQ:UK:11

This one will not fitted the plug on the PC it is the wrong style :thumb:

markymark
11-09-2007, 08:12 PM
This one will not fitted the plug on the PC it is the wrong style :thumb:

Ahh ok, thanks for that good job I bought the other one!:thumb:

Maxtor
11-09-2007, 09:21 PM
http://www.euronetwork.co.uk/acatalog/US_Japan_China_to_UK.html

beardboy
11-09-2007, 09:21 PM
I got mine from Burrows about 2-3 weeks ago. Was £15.12 when i got it. Email Alan and give him the part no: 5269-X and say you were recommended to him by someone else and were told he's the cheapest place or something. :thumb:

SteveOC
11-09-2007, 10:53 PM
I found these which are similar:-
http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=250129305922&sspagename=ADME:X:RTQ:UK:11

http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=250121980188

I looked at, and dismissed both of those - see discussion above - because as far as I could tell one won't fit, and the other might but offers no benefit to the cheaper fittings.

Steve O.

SteveOC
11-09-2007, 11:35 PM
Anyone having trouble getting one of these?

Seems that 'they know' they are in demand and hiking the prices up!!

Toolsmet out of stock & Burrows wants £28.00!! Ebay - cannot find one, and like many i do not want to remove the plug and void the warranty....

Any links?

BB

How can they justify that price - are their plugs made from solid unobtainium?

Mine finally turned up from the US last week - they are just the standard yellow Leviton plugs.
I have some spares - PM me if you are located near me (West Wiltshire) and want one.

Steve O.

n1ckt001
30-10-2007, 02:31 PM
Just ordered one from eBay, quite a few available from the seller....
....assuming of course I haven't ordered the wrong one...

http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&rd=1&item=160174295960&ssPageName=STRK:MEWN:IT&ih=006

dodger
30-10-2007, 05:43 PM
Just ordered one from eBay, quite a few available from the seller....
....assuming of course I haven't ordered the wrong one...

http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&rd=1&item=160174295960&ssPageName=STRK:MEWN:IT&ih=006


looks to me :thumb: same one as i'm using :D

patbhoy
02-11-2007, 02:56 PM
If like me you don't want to cut off the PC plug which will void your warranty, here is an alternative which is safe to use.

I ordered on of these USA (2 pin) to UK Converter Plug (ACP) from this website: EuroNetwork Ltd (http://www.euronetwork.co.uk/acatalog/US_Japan_China_to_UK.html)

Which fits on the PC like this

http://www.zen12100.zen.co.uk/detailingworld/pc/usaconverter_open1.gifhttp://www.zen12100.zen.co.uk/detailingworld/pc/usconverter_open2.gifhttp://www.zen12100.zen.co.uk/detailingworld/pc/usconverter_closedco.gif

so it ends up like this

http://www.zen12100.zen.co.uk/detailingworld/pc/PC260012.JPG

Next on the 110V extension lead remove the socket end and replace it with a rubber 3 pin socket like the one below.

http://www.zen12100.zen.co.uk/detailingworld/pc/PC260011.JPG

http://www.zen12100.zen.co.uk/detailingworld/pc/PC260010.JPG


Thats it plug it in and away you go, happy detailing without voiding the warranty :thumb:

Bought one of these but changed my mind about using it, as AdamG pointed out there is always the chance someone will plug it into the mains and its bye bye PC.
Its still here brand new if anyone would like it for £2.50 delivered to cover my charges.
Just PM me, i probably wont get back to you until sunday as i'm going away for the weekend.

Cheers
Pat

ktlstar
10-12-2007, 09:38 AM
Just ordered one from eBay, quite a few available from the seller....
....assuming of course I haven't ordered the wrong one...

http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&rd=1&item=160174295960&ssPageName=STRK:MEWN:IT&ih=006

I'v ordered of this bloke and still not arrived, its been about two weeks!:@

dodger
11-12-2007, 01:09 PM
I'v ordered of this bloke and still not arrived, its been about two weeks!:@

send him an email to see if has been sent or if there any problems sending items from the states at the minute.

Clemo
11-12-2007, 08:36 PM
I'v ordered of this bloke and still not arrived, its been about two weeks!:@

I ordered from him as well, took about 2.5 weeks. I emailed him when I was waiting and he said they can take between 1-3 weeks to arrive.

Worth the wait though!

Ray2k
21-12-2007, 08:20 PM
I haven't read every page in this thread so maybe it's already been done but I got my UDM the other day and have used a US line socket from Maplin (here (http://www.maplin.co.uk/module.aspx?ModuleNo=1476&doy=21m12)) and a short length of cable to wire that to a yellow 110v transformer plug from machine mart and it's worked fine.

I had to screw the US plug back together with the UDM plug already in it because there's a wider part on one of the UDM pins but it just about goes together. No cable cut and no risk of plugging it into a 230v socket! And at £1.29 for the US socket and £2 something for the yellow plug it's pretty cheap - both maplin and machine mart had the parts in stock so no postage to pay either.

Hope this helps

Ray

SamVx
14-01-2008, 09:46 PM
I have a spare one of these if anyone is interested. Drop me a PM :)
http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&rd=1&item=310003251949&ssPageName=STRK:MEWN:IT&ih=021

Altern8
30-08-2008, 09:05 AM
nice guide