220V to 110V

[felto]

Hi
I just would like to inquire about a coffegrinder
that was given to me from europe.  The plug on
it was not the standard 110V supply so I changed
the plug on it to suit my outlet.  Now it still grinds but
the problem is that it runs slower.  I think I need to
change the transformer or something on it.  How
exactly do I do this and what type of transformer
do I need to install to suit my 110V outlet.
Thanks

 

[ante1]

Hi felto,

You need a step up transformer to get this right, how much power (W) does the grinder need?

 

[felto]

Thanks for the reply
It says that its at 1ma current
and I think 140 watts of power.

 

[ante1]

Hi felto,

Well, I can’t be sure about this because 140W and 1mA does not match by far. I need more specific values to be able to say for sure and not mess up things for you!  :-\

 

[felto]

Can you tell me what readings are you looking for
on the tranformer?  I have the unit disassembled
and the tranformer is exposed.  Where do I hook
up my voltmeter and do you need volts, amps or what?
Thanks

 

[Kasamiko]

Hi Felto..

Most devices has some sticker/label printed at the back or bottom of it..
The brand..where it is made etc..You can also find there what you are looking for..
Just look for some figure with WATTS or W on it..
Like:

240VAC, 1.0Amp or
220VAC, 150Watts
220VAC, 150W

something like that..
Goodluck

rhonn 

 

[MP1]

felto,
What voltage do you measure at the secondary side of the transformer? It is most likely 1/2 of what you had originally. Another thing to look at is the motor inside this unit. It also should have some markings to tell you what it needs.

MP

 

[ante1]

The maximum power consumption for the unit in watts (W) or (VA) is a good place to start.

 

[felto]

ok upon further inspecting the unit it says that it uses
250V and 1 amp.  So where do I go from there?

It looks as if the transformer is part of the whole unit
and it cant be replaced.  Can I add something within the
circuit to let it run at 110V.  Maybe a power transistor or something.............

 

[ante1]

Hi felto,

What you need is a step up transformer 110V to 230-250V and rated at least 250VA.

 

[felto]

Can you tell me what site I can  find this step up transformer?
Do I just wire it into the other transformer?

 

[ante1]

Hi felto,

I don’t know where you live or where you are able to get stuff from but here are a few links:
http://www.happcontrols.com/powersupplies/80004400.htm
http://www.starkelectronic.com/st500.htm
http://www.walkabouttravelgear.com/reverse.htm
http://www.action-electronics.com/trnsupdn.htm
You just put it between the wall outlet and your grinder.

 

[SM2GXN]

Hi Felto!

Can you take a picture of what you think is a transformer, it would help a lot.
If there is a motor inside running at AC the load wont be purely resistive either, we have to take into account or?  :