Taking an iMac around the world... Converter or just different plug?

[Turnpike]

For reasons that could be argued against (but let's not) suppose I'd take an iMac from the US to Europe...

I know the plugs are different, but do I need a converter, or does the iMac automatically adjust to different voltages? Do I just need the local plug, or a converter?

Does anyone know for sure, from experience? I'd like to buy an iMac in the US, use it at a job, then take it to Denmark, use it there, and then leave it for someone I know there.

Thanks.

 

[IngerMan]

iMac Electrical and Operating Requirements
Line voltage: 100–240V AC

Frequency: 50Hz to 60Hz, single phase

Operating temperature: 50° to 95° F (10° to 35° C)

Relative humidity: 5% to 95% noncondensing

Operating altitude: tested up to 10,000 feet


All you need is a simple all in one travel adaptor that can be purchased for less then $20

The answer is YES you can. I traveled from US to Germany and Italy and powered my 15" MBP with out issue using a travel adaptor. Apple electronics are same for Europe and USA just a different plug. I suppose you could purchase a Plug in Europe for the iMac and not need the adaptor.

 

[balticgreen]

Current iMacs (and probably older ones, but I can't say for sure) are dual voltage and dual frequency. It's on the iMac specs page: https://www.apple.com/imac/specs/
That means that you would only need a plug adapter. Apple sells an international power kit with the changeable plug tips for the laptop power supplies but the iMac power cords are one piece. I don't think Apple sells the entire cord as a replacement part (to consumers at least) but maybe you could find one on eBay or another source. If you can, that would be a cleaner solution than an external adapter.

Be aware of warranty issues in a country that's not the product's country of purchase. Apple may not cover a repair or possibly service even at customer expense a US model iMac in a foreign country and may require that it be shipped back to the US. That might not be a concern if you were taking an older computer that has no warranty and may not be worth fixing, but you're planning to buy a new one that will have a full warranty so just keep this in mind.

From Apple's US warranty terms:
"Service will be limited to the options available in the country where service is requested. Service options, parts availability and response times may vary according to country. You may be responsible for shipping and handling charges if the Apple Product cannot be serviced in the country it is in. If you seek service in a country that is not the country of purchase, you will comply with all applicable import and export laws and regulations and be responsible for all custom duties, V.A.T. and other associated taxes and charges. For international service, Apple may repair or replace Apple Products and parts with comparable Apple Products and parts that comply with local standards."

 

[nambuccaheadsau]

Rather than the plug adapter just buy a power lead from the country/countries you will be visiting as they are all different. Europe uses a different 240v three pin connector to Asia/Oceania.

 

[mikehalloran]

Current iMacs (and probably older ones, but I can't say for sure)

Back to the Mac+ in 1985, possibly earlier. Mine was on the road with me in the late '80s but I was in a number of countries so a travel adapter kit was fine.

Denmark uses two different sockets but certain plugs fit either. They have plenty of shops that sell cords for electronics. Buy one there since it's just one country and you're leaving it. I've been a few times but I just don't remember.

My daughter went to university in Copenhagen, she'd know which cord to buy as her iMac went with her and came back but I don't expect to see her for a couple of weeks.

 

[MadDane]

Denmark uses two different sockets but certain plugs fit either. They have plenty of shops that sell cords for electronics. Buy one there since it's just one country and you're leaving it. I've been a few times but I just don't remember.

I am from Denmark and I am not entirely sure which plugs you refer to. Maybe the version with ground and the one without?

I have electronics from various countries and continents. And usually I just use an adapter. I have bought a bunch on eBay for cheap, and they tend to work pretty good. Alternatively one can just cut the original cord from the US and install a new plug. There are also a lot of options on eBay for replacement chords, if one prefers the more OEM look.

 

[mikehalloran]

Maybe the version with ground and the one without?

Yep. The C and K if I remember correctly.

The OP plans to leave the Mac in Denmark—that’s why the recommendation to buy the cord there. If traveling through, adapters are fine.

 

[J.Gallardo]

Yep. The C and K if I remember correctly.

The OP plans to leave the Mac in Denmark—that’s why the recommendation to buy the cord there. If traveling through, adapters are fine.

Yes. Wait till you get there. Final adapters are cheap and easy to find, as here in Europe there're different gen houses and plugs. In Spain you can find at least three different possibilities, and adapters are common, as there are also different gen electric devices.
If you feel more confident taking the adapter with you, there used to exist "universal" plugs or mini-kits for heavy travellers.

 

[CooperBox]

Hi, I'm reviving this fairly old thread with a similar query about iMac G4 power operating voltages. I was under the impression that they were dual 110/220V and could be used from the USA to Europe without any problem or additional converters.
I've just seen an ad for an iMac G4 with the following comment from the owner; "ATTENTION! it is American and therefore 110V compatible, I'll leave you the 220>110V converter" (see below):

Unless someone can confirm to the contrary, I believe all G4 iMac's are dual voltage and all the above shown 'converter' is doing is adapting the US type connector to a European type connector - not shown in the photo. Confirmation please.......