Power converters either step up or step down power. It depends upon the capabilities of the electronic equipment and the existing power system. If you live in the United States and own a device that only works on 110 volts, you will need a power converter to step up the voltage to 220 when traveling to a country with a 220 volt system. Read the label on your device. If it says 110V-220V then you do not need a converter. If it says only 110V or 120V then you need a converter. Remember that voltage has nothing to do with cycles and hertz. Power converters do not change cycles.
Some devices run just as well on 50 Hz as on 60 Hz. They include simple electrical devices with heating elements. It also covers devices that convert incoming alternating current, or AC, into direct current, or DC. In addition, electronic devices that work on both 110 and 220 volts do not have a problem with different cycles.
Any device with a timer or a clock will experience a problem with lower cycles. The motor will operate approximately 17 percent slower. This is due to fewer cycles per second. When in doubt, check the label on your device or the owner's manual. It will tell you if the device will not function properly at 50 Hz.
Once you determine if your device will function at 220 volts and 50 Hz, you still have the problem of the plug. Most countries use different configurations so your standard U.S. plug will not fit. You need an adapter with one end that fits your device and the other end that fits the wall outlet. This adapter is necessary but it will not change cycles.
