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Mains Power Multi Voltage, Adapter 'plus or Minus' Quandry?

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Graphicool1
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Posted August 14, 2011 at 1:39PM

Hi this is a non PC question. I have a 'Mains Power Transformer'.

It's settings are...

Input: 220-240v AC 50Hz

Output: 3v / 4.5v / 6v / 7.5v / 9v / 12v

DC 300mA

It has 5 different connectors, for different appliances.

Plus - and hereby lies my dilemma - 2 sliders. Other than one slider being a shade longer than the other, they are both the same. Each has a 'Minus' at one end and a 'Plus' at the other. I can use either slider, but whichever one I choose means I can't use the other? This is not my field of expertise and I don't want to make a possible costly mistake.

So, my question is: Do I use the long or short slider and where do I position the sliding marker. I can have it on a Minus or Plus, or postion it anywhere between.

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Nontek

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Posted August 14, 2011 at 4:21PM

Meant to add, that in some cases 'it' would just not work, or if correct, that it would work.

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Graphicool1

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Posted August 14, 2011 at 4:30PM

"The item 'Hardware' in question is a 'TASCAM Mini Studio PORTA 03mkII' or in other words a music/sound mixing studio."

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Nontek

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Posted August 14, 2011 at 4:38PM

Normal Polarity markings ....

C---- + with a . in middle of C and unbroken line extending to + sign, means Positive.

  • ----C - sign with unbroken line extending to outer edge of C, means Negative.
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Nontek

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Posted August 14, 2011 at 4:49PM

That item is most likely Positive (+) to Inner pin. It would not work if connected the wrong way round, but I don't think any damage would occur.

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Graphicool1

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Posted August 14, 2011 at 4:59PM

I set it to 12v and '+' the power light on the plug came on. However the power light on the mixer didn't. Although when I switch the play button, one of the spools turns, but not the other. I'll try changing the polarity to '-', if that doesn't work I'll try it down the middle.

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Nontek

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Posted August 14, 2011 at 5:27PM

The power light on the adapter will illuminate regardless of polarity, even when the unit is not connected.

Is it working now?

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Graphicool1

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Posted August 14, 2011 at 5:28PM

OK I changed the polarity to '-' and Whoo, it works. Thanx for your instructions Nontek. However, if your non-tech - as far as mains power goes - I must be neanderthal.

Thanx again to everyone who contributed.

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Nontek

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Posted August 14, 2011 at 5:36PM

Great, glad it is ok now.

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