Electric Current Abroad 3
Introduction
To assist U.S. manufacturers, exporters and individuals living or trav-eling abroad, this publication lists the characteristics of electric current avail-able and the type of attachment plugs used in most countries. It is an updateof a similar handbook published in 1991. The tables indicate the type of current (alternating or direct current), number of phases, frequency (hertz),and voltage, as well as the stability of the frequency and the number of wires to a commercial or residential installation. This information pertainsto domestic and commercial service only. It does not apply to special com-mercial installations involving relatively high voltage requirements or toindustrial installations.For most countries listed here, two nominal voltages are given. Thelower voltages are used primarily for lighting and smaller appliances, whilethe higher voltages are used primarily for air conditioners, heating, andother large appliances. Travelers planning to use or ship appliances abroadshould acquaint themselves with the characteristics of the electric supplyavailable in the area in which the appliance is to be used. In some cases, atransformer may be used to correct the voltage. However, if the appliancerequires exact timing or speed and if the frequency of the foreign electricitysupply differs from the one the appliance was designed for, it is advisableto use an appliance designed for the foreign frequency since auxiliary equip-ment to change frequency is bulky and expensive. Some foreign hotelshave circuits providing approximately 120 volts which allow guests to useelectric shavers and other low-wattage U.S. appliances.The information presented here was compiled over a period of monthsfrom a large number of sources. Consequently, there is some possibility of errors or omissions for which the Department of Commerce cannot assumeresponsibility. In addition, this information should not be taken as final inthe case of industrial or highly specialized commercial installations. It would
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