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Old April 14th, 2004, 11:52 AM   #1
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USA/UK Light question

I am looking to purchase a Smith Victor SM-415 on board AC camera light which I have come across on`

I live in Great Britain and was wondering if the light would function properly taking into account the different voltages to the USA.

I'm really not an electrical expert so was wondering if anybody is aware of any issues that may arise from using an AC camera light manufactured for use in the USA in Great Britain.

Thanks
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Old April 14th, 2004, 11:55 AM   #2
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I do not recall the voltage differences between the two. In the US, we use 120 volts. If you use 240 volts then the answer is no, it must be 120. 105 to 120v is fine though 105 would be redder.
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Old April 14th, 2004, 11:57 AM   #3
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I just noticed that you say camera light so what I just said may not apply.
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Old April 14th, 2004, 12:02 PM   #4
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Sorry, I'm confused, are you saying No it won't work, or No, problems WILL arise?. We use a 240v System
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Old April 14th, 2004, 12:41 PM   #5
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You are running 50Hz power, but I cant remember if the voltage was 240 or not.
You'll be recharging batteries anyway for this camera light, correct? The charger will have to be able to plug into your power supply there. Got Radio Schack?

Cheers,
Jeff
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Old April 14th, 2004, 02:44 PM   #6
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It's an AC camera light, so it's plugs into the mains power supply, so it doesn't use batteries
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Old April 14th, 2004, 05:30 PM   #7
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The voltage is different in the US. It is 120v in the US and 240v in Great Britain.

So if you have a 240v bulb in your light head it will be VERY warm if plugged into a 120v AC line in the US. If you plug a 120v bulb into the 240v line in Great Britain it will blow out and may even explode causing a fire hazard. So be careful!

You may be able to find a 120v lamp for the SV light head. Then simply change bulbs depending on your location and voltage needs.

Hope this helps.
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Old April 15th, 2004, 06:01 AM   #8
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I came across this 120v/240v Transformer which says I can use US electrical items in the UK.

http://www.tlc-direct.co.uk/Main_Index/Transformer_Index/USA_110volt_Convertor_Transformer/

(It's the white one at the top)

Do you think this will enable me to use the light safely and without ay issues?
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Old April 15th, 2004, 06:30 AM   #9
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I am not clear as to whether you are purchasing the SV light in the UK (240v) or in the US (120v). You may be able to get the light in the UK with the appropriate 240v lamp and plug on it. No need for the transformer if used in the UK.

But why not just find a 240v light for your needs unless you are travelling?

If the SV light only comes in 120v you will need a transformer to use it in the UK.

The transformer you are looking at is too small for the wattage of the light you are considering. You will need this one.

http://www.tlc-direct.co.uk/Products/SC5300.html
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