How accurate are A/C multi-adapters?

Schadenfroh

Elite Member
Mar 8, 2003
38,416
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I am concerned about the quality of the output of the A/C multiadapters, or whatever you call the things that have multiple ends for connecting to electronic devices, selection of voltage/polarity. My friends tell me that they have tested many of them and all have irregular voltage outputs. this concerns me. I accidentally left my A/C adapter for my iPod clone in a hotel room in denver, CO. a long ways from where i am now. I was wondering if anyone knows where i could get a custom A/C adapter made that would fit its voltages, this RCA 40 gig lyra Mp3 player's accessories are not sold in my area. Radio Shack is horribly over priced when it comes to A/C adapters, but do any of you know what kind of multiadapter i could get that does not have irregular voltage outputs? or a place i can get a custom A/C adapter put together like at radio shack?
 

Eli

Super Moderator | Elite Member
Oct 9, 1999
50,419
8
81
AFAIK, all AC adapters will show voltage differences depending on the load.

Just find something that is high quality, it should be fine. DC appliances are(should) be built with a little leeway.
 

Colt45

Lifer
Apr 18, 2001
19,720
1
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they usually use a cheapshit CRC filter, so voltage depends on load.

its not exactly important though. if you're fussy just stick a LM7812 or whatever voltage yours is.. there are a lot of $1 regulator ICs out there.
 

Woodchuck2000

Golden Member
Jan 20, 2002
1,632
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I really wouldn't worry... It's hard to damage a DC device by connecting it to a slightly flaky power supply. As long as it's consitently +- 20% most devices will cope...
 

AlienCraft

Lifer
Nov 23, 2002
10,539
0
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No mention of if youcalled the hotel and see if housekeeping turned it in. Worth a call. I've had items shipped to me when I was on tour and would have to get up and out in a rush and left something.