Electricity systems - Stromsysteme

Remarks

1. Great Britain, Ireland and Hong Kong: A so-called razor socket (similar to type C) is occasionally available in bathrooms. It is often possible to use both 110 V and 220 V, the voltage can often be selected using a switch. These sockets are fused to 1A or 3A, so they can only be used for devices with 200 W to 600 W (razors, electric toothbrushes, no hair dryer!). Type G sockets often have an on / off switch.
2. Brazil, Bolivia: The mains voltage can sometimes be between 110 and 230 V in the same area, even in the same building.
3. Japan: In the eastern part the frequency is 50 Hz, so Tokyo, Kawasaki, Sapporo, Yokohama and Sendai); in the western part the frequency is 60 Hz, so Osaka, Kyoto, Nagoya and Hiroshima. In hotels, there are usually additional sockets with 110 and 220 V.^[1]
4. South Korea: The power grid is converted to 220 V. Sometimes there is still the old voltage of 110 V (connector type A and B). Sometimes both 110 V and 220 V are offered.
5. Argentina and Uruguay: Outer conductor and neutral conductor are swapped.
6. Liberia: Since there is no central power supply and control, the voltage fluctuates between 110 and 220 V and the frequency between 50 and 60 Hz. Type A and B plugs are mainly used for 110 V connections and C and F for 220 V connections to find. If in doubt, check voltage.
7. Libya: Different from the 127 V mains voltage Barce, Benghazi, The NA, Sebha and Tobruk a mains voltage of 230 V.
8. Mexico and United States of America: 240 V are used for air conditioning systems, washing machines and the like; corresponding notices are often missing on the sockets in Mexico.
9. South Africa: Deviating in Port Elizabeth, Grahamstown and King Williams Town a mains voltage of 250 V.
10. Netherlands Antilles: Deviating in Saint Martin 120 V / 60 Hz, in Saba and St. Eustatius 110 V / 60 Hz.
11. Malaysia: In some newer hotels you can occasionally find combined sockets that have an additional socket (type C) integrated under the G type. However, since you cannot rely on it being there, an adapter is still required. Some hotels also provide these.

Connector types

Devices with variable power supply

Devices with a built-in or external power supply such as laptops, chargers for digital cameras and cell phones, portable CD players and the like are the least problematic for travelers. A plug adapter is usually sufficient here in order to be able to operate them with other power systems.

Devices without variable power supply

Above all, the hair dryer should be mentioned here. These devices are usually built for a specific voltage and are therefore not compatible with other systems. Using the wrong voltage could result in a fire or worse.

Operational security

If a device is being operated for the first time in a different mains network, it should not be left out of sight. Extreme overheating, unusual noises and rising smoke are alarm signals. If possible, interrupt the power supply via the main fuse or (if available) via a switch on the socket. If the plug is pulled directly, there is a risk of electric shock from melted insulation. In Germany it is also mandatory to check devices at regular intervals, this is regulated by the accident prevention regulations, see also [1].

Individual evidence

This is a useful article. There are still some places where information is missing. If you have something to add be brave and complete them.