Changing US 2 pin plug to 3 pin UK plug ? Possible ?

[Jimhunt100]

Hi all,

I've recently received a US mini-computer that has a US 2 pin plug on it. I've plugged this into a US-to- UK adapter and it works fine. The text on the computer itself says it will work on 110v or 230v; which is obviously correct as the device works fine. As far as I can tell there is no transformer in the adapter and there is no transformer block on the cable.

In order to reduce the size of the plug (I want to wall mount the device) I would like to replace the US 2 pin with a UK 3 pin plug.

- Can I do this without blowing up the device ?
- How do I tell which cable is live (does it even matter - as the plug isn't 'keyed' to force it to be inserted in a particular orientation. Is it the case that the internal electrics of the device handle the polarity ?
- What else should I look out for ?

I'm familiar with re-wiring plugs etc - but worried I'll fry the device by cross connecting live and neutral !)

Many thanks in advance
Jim

 

[Lucien Nunes]

The blurb on it will tell the output voltage and current to find an equivalent. If you use it with a socket adaptor, use a proper fused one to BS5733, not one of the rubbish unfused multi-format kinds that are about everywhere. The fuse is essential when connecting overseas appliances to UK ring circuits.

 

[Deleted member 105166]

looks like it's for a laptop after all...

 

[Jimhunt100]

I'll have a look for the rating info when I'm back home tonight. Thanks !

 

[Jimhunt100]

I'll have a look for the rating info when I'm back home tonight. Thanks !

 

[Squid]

Cut the lead stick a UK plug on it start filming watch it go bang and burn your house down, upload footage to YouTube, become an influencer and buy a Mac with the proceeds........ ;o))))) *



*I may be taking the pi55 ;o))))

 

[westward10]

Why is it going to rain.

 

[Spoon]

*I may be taking the pi55 ;o))))

and I always thought you are a sensible person......

 

[Jimhunt100]

By "mini computer", do you mean PC ? If there is an integral PSU I assume so.

Yes - it's a PC - it's the small box in the background of the picture below

 

[GeorgeCooke]

NO

Here's a picture of the plug itself. Do you think it contains a transformer ?

View attachment 41236

NO. It contains a switch mode power supply. Don't cut it off.

 

[e auchterlonie]

I need help. bought black and decker 2 ltr airfrier , has 2prongcable. how doaaaaaknow which uk adapter will convert to uk 3pin plug bigggish item. more powerful than pc or hair dryer. bought 2 small adapter 2prong but niether will take the 2prong on airfrier cable

 

[westward10]

What voltage is this appliance.

 

[Lucien Nunes]

Please check the information plate or post a picture. If it has a European 2-pin plug there are adaptors rated up to 10A that fit permanently to the plug and will be safe.

If it has a USA 2-pin plug it will likely be 120V 60Hz only and will be damaged or destroyed if connected to UK 230V power.

Please check or post a picture of the information plate first.

 

[e auchterlonie]

What voltage is this appliance.

dont know 240 I expect like a small oven

 

[e auchterlonie]

Please check the information plate or post a picture. If it has a European 2-pin plug there are adaptors rated up to 10A that fit permanently to the plug and will be safe.

If it has a USA 2-pin plug it will likely be 120V 60Hz only and will be damaged or destroyed if connected to UK 230V power.

Please check or post a picture of the information plate first.

thankyou I will try to find more info I have vision impairment and not good at seeing. the details are black and decker puifry airfrier " 2ltr quite a large item sellar not responding

 

[Lucien Nunes]

Are the pins on the plug flat or round?

Electrical products should not be sold in the UK without a correct plug fitted and in compliance with UK / EU standards.