I posted this to sci.electronics but I get the impression that wasn't the best idea so I'm reposting it here.
Hi, This is how I understand things. North American power is 120V 60 cycles. European is 220V 50 cycles. The voltage can be dealt with easily with a step down transformer but the cycles can cause problems.
Check the back of the device. I'll see something like
1) 120V/60 this may work it may not. It's a risk.2) 120V/50-60 this should work just fine with a step down transformer
3) something like 110-240v 50-60 This should work just fine. I may need to flip a switch or you may need a new cord.One thing 60 cycles is used for is timing clocks. Older clocks will not keep time with 50 cycles.
North American 220V is also different then European 220V. Phase different? So North American 220V devices can't use European 220V power.
Is that basically right? Thanks Nick