February 27, 2010

When you don't need a step down transformer

We often forget, but most computer things work on high voltage.

A potential customer called looking for a 208volt system for some equipment, but also wanted some 120volt outlets for computers, cameras, and external hard drives.

Yet instead of selling him a 300$ step down transformer, I reminded him to check his equipment again.  Turns out nearly everything can handle high voltage.  This is because most electrical equipment immediately steps down the voltage internally at the plug.   Plus, most equipment needs to handle international power demands, which vary dramatically.


So, other than maybe your lava lamp and disco ball.... your server room can probably do without the step down transformers.