16mm Projector Question - US to UK power

[deVere]

Hi,

Just purchased a 16mm projector from the US to run in the UK (Kodak Analyst II). I know I need a transformer but can anyone point me in the right direction as to the correct one?

Thanks.

[mauka]

Hi,

You need step down voltage transformer. Read those instructions for how to calculate correct size: http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/Voltage-transform ... 53df820b05

[supa8]

As far as I know, you may also be running into speed issues, where in order to obtain 18fps or 24fps, you would have to modify some parts within the projectors. A US projector repair person told me this a few years back. I never verified it but it does make sense.

[richard p. t.]

You would need to determine the wattage of the projector (should be written on a plate on the projector somewhere) and buy an appropriate sized step-down transformer.
However as said above, this may not be enough to run the projector normally. It depends on the type of motor used and how the speed is controlled. If it is using an ac syncronous motor, then the speed of revolution of the motor will be determined by the ocilating frequency of the mains - in the case of the US projector that would be 60cycles per second (60HZ). If you plug this in to the mains in the U.K. (via a step-down transformer) it will be running at 50 cycles per second (50HZ).
Not all projectors work this way however. Eiki projectors are like this (and to switch between 18 and 24 fps you have to change a belt), but Bell and Howell projectors for example change speed electronically via variable resistors and the mains frequency isn't involved. I can't find any info on the Kodak analyst, but here is a link to a kodak CT1000 projector.http://cgi.ebay.com.au/Kodak-Ektagraphi ... 563b6dcb55
The specifications in that ad say 50 or 60 hz.
So it depends.
If you find it is like the eiki, then the best bet is to get an AC inverter for 110 volts 60hz and power that from a (large!) 12 volt battery.
But I sugest you don't do anything until the projector arrives as it may be a multi-voltage projector with an adjustable transformer already.
cheers,
rt

[wahiba]

Early Bell and Howells sold in the UK used 110V and came with a big transformer.

An up to date source would be power tool supplier, I think Screwfix sells step down transformers because for elf and safety reasons work sites often use 110V tools.

[Angus]

I am sure a good google search will find a suitbaly rated step-down transformer. Maplin might be worth a try too.

You can get converters which deal with the frequency difference but they are more expensive.

Here is an item on Amazon for 40 quid which is rated at up to 300W and might well be suitable for a projecter (bet it's 300VA but the difference is minimal as far as you're concerned)

http://www.amazon.co.uk/VC300-Step-Down ... 075&sr=8-3

An ineligant but possible solution might be to buy an American power inverter. Its a device designed to be plugged into a car battery and output mains voltage. An American power inverter would output 120V at 60Hz....obviously you'd need a spare car battery or high powererd 13.8V bench supply.

[deVere]

Thanks for all the replies to my question....I have just picked up the projector and scanning the plate reads:

Kodak Analyst II Projector
Model AV26L
120 Volts
50/60Hz
300 Watts Max

So based upon this info, am I right in thinking the amazon product below (as per Angus' post) should do the trick?

http://www.amazon.co.uk/VC300-Step-Down ... 075&sr=8-3

[deVere]

I went with a VC500, the 500W version of the Amazon one as recommended by the chap at the company, hopefully will be working in the next few days....

http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B000 ... ss_product