Thailand,
being one of the most advanced countries in Asia, the quality and
stability of electric power of the place is excellent. Like most cities
in Thailand, the voltage output of Bangkok is 220 volts AC, alternating
at 50 cycles per second, with almost non-existent brownouts and power
cuts. Travelers from overseas visiting Bangkok must have a fair idea
regarding the electric current of the place. It will help them in
determining whether the electrical appliances and gadgets, they carry,
support the voltage output of the place or not.
In case, the devices do not accept the standard electricity of 220
volts AC at 50 Hertz, a voltage converter might be required that will
modulate the compatibility between the device and the electric flow of
the place. Thus, it will help to ensure personal safety and reduce the
chance of any possible damage to the appliances. Generally, there are
three types of voltage converters, viz. resistor-network converters,
transformers and combination converters. They are easily available in
various hardware and departmental stores of Bangkok.
Resistor-network converters accept electricity of 50-1600 watts and are
suitable for lightweight and high-wattage appliance,s like hair dryers
and electric irons. On the other hand, transformers support an electric
voltage of 50-100 watts and works best when used for low wattage
devices, like battery chargers, radios, laptop computers, cameras,
camcorders and MP3 players. Combination converters have a combination of
both a resistor network and a transformer, and thus, can be adjusted and
switched between both the modes.
Apart from voltage converters, another thing to keep in mind is the
wall receptacles and type of plugs. Receptacles in Bangkok accommodate
both flat as well as round prongs (pins). In addition, they accept
either two or three (arranged in a triangular form) prongs. Most modern
establishments generally have three rounded pins. Therefore, if you have
a 3-prong plug device, but the receptacle has only 2-pins, buying an
adapter plug becomes necessary. Such plug adapters can easily adjust
with different receptacles and be bought for cheap, in hardware stores
all over Bangkok.