Need help identifying safe AC adaptor

[alex777]

Hi all,

I'm trying to establish whether I can safely use an AC adaptor on a different device. Basically I have a UK plug on one adapter and I want to use that to power another device for which I only have an EU plug. I have attached pictures of the two adaptors below. Can anyone tell me if I can use the black adaptor on the device associated with the white adaptor? Even better, if someone could explain why, I'll be able to work this stuff out for myself in future. Google wasn't much help .


Thanks so much

 

[DPG]

They are both 12VDC, and both positive tip. Good start. However the black one is only 2A, whereas the original is 2.5A. Now it depends how much extra allowance the manufacturer gave. Do you have details of the appliance in question?

And I'm assuming both have the same output plug on the end of the wire?

 

[telectrix]

why not just buy a Uk - Euro adaptor?

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[DPG]

why not just buy a Uk - Euro adaptor?

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I never like mains power supply blocks hanging off the end of euro adaptors.

 

[freddo]

why not just buy a Uk - Euro adaptor?

Mercury 429.824UK Shaver Adaptor - White for sale online | eBay

Find many great new & used options and get the best deals for Mercury 429.824UK Shaver Adaptor - White at the best online prices at eBay! Free delivery for many products!

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A shaver adaptor is not suitable for use with euro plugs.

 

[alex777]

I never like mains power supply blocks hanging off the end of euro adaptors.

I have some of these (photo attached) but I've been warned that they're not safe. Is this true?

Second photo attached of the device I'd like to power.

 

[freddo]

I have some of these (photo attached) but I've been warned that they're not safe. Is this true?

Certainly looks like unsafe junk. no fuse, no support for the plug.

Here is a properly designed and approved one

 

[alex777]

They are both 12VDC, and both positive tip. Good start. However the black one is only 2A, whereas the original is 2.5A. Now it depends how much extra allowance the manufacturer gave. Do you have details of the appliance in question?

And I'm assuming both have the same output plug on the end of the wire?

Photo of the device attached. Yes, same output plug.

 

[Lucien Nunes]

That blue thing looks evil! I wonder what standards it (and its fuse) are made to (probably none, and no fuse, I'd guess.)

So the load appears to want 2.5A, or at least isn't saying what it needs, only that it should be used with a 2.5A PSU (Netzteil). Replacements are not desperately expensive, but buy from a reputable UK source to avoid getting dangerous conterfeit rubbish. Check the pin size of the DC connector; 2.1 and 2.5mm are popular. Here's an example that would probably suit with a 2.1mm connector. Rated 3A so plenty for the purpose: 12V 3A PSU at CPC

 

[alex777]

Thanks so much! Output end attached. Not sure if it's a 2.1 or a 2.5.

 

[Timbo]

Used these before without problem.

https://cpc.farnell.com/unbranded/pcp-black-3a/plug-euro-uk-converter-black/dp/PW00900?st=Euro%20adapter

 

[Lucien Nunes]

Looks like 2.1mm but can be deceptive.

 

[alex777]

That blue thing looks evil! I wonder what standards it (and its fuse) are made to (probably none, and no fuse, I'd guess.)

So the load appears to want 2.5A, or at least isn't saying what it needs, only that it should be used with a 2.5A PSU (Netzteil). Replacements are not desperately expensive, but buy from a reputable UK source to avoid getting dangerous conterfeit rubbish. Check the pin size of the DC connector; 2.1 and 2.5mm are popular. Here's an example that would probably suit with a 2.1mm connector. Rated 3A so plenty for the purpose: 12V 3A PSU at CPC

Can't work out whether it's a 2.1 or a 2.5mm jack. Any idea how to tell? I don't have anything precise enough to measure them.

 

[DPG]

If in doubt maybe get a power supply which has interchangeable plugs on the end.