Can I safely use a foreign adapter for my laptop computer?

[Schnitte]

I'm using an Acer laptop computer with an adapter model marked as PA 1750-02. Seems my adapter isn't in good condition any more, as it happened repeatedly in the past few days that after I plugged it in, the computer didn't get power and couldn't start; or that the computer did start at frst, yet it suddenly went off as if I had plugged it out.

Anyway, I seem to need a new adapter. Those things are darn expensive in retail here (they go up as far as 80 euros). On American and British websites, they are cheaper, even accounting for having it shipped to Germany. Is it perfectly safe (even if cumbersome) to buy an adapter designed for foreign voltages and sockets with an additional adapter (you now, like the ones you use during voyages for your electric razors and the like), or would that incur any risks?

[Mr. Blue Sky]

Are you talking about the power "brick" that came with the laptop?

If so, the specs on the replacement must match the original or you risk frying your computer.

[FatBaldGuy]

Assuming that all the devices you're looking at are compatible with your computer, the important factor is the inputvoltage. By default, most electrical devices in the US operate on 110-120 volts AC. Most devices in Europe (including the UK) operate on 220-240 volts AC.

My WAG is that if you bought one from Britain it would work fine for you, although you may have to buy an adapter due to the different plug configurations.

That being said, many computer adapters are designed to work on either 110 or 220 volts, and have built-in circuitry to sense the input voltage. Whatever you buy, check out the voltage specs to see if they will work for your location.

[astro]

Originally Posted by Mr. Blue Sky

Are you talking about the power "brick" that came with the laptop?

If so, the specs on the replacement must match the original or you risk frying your computer.

Almost all universal notebook adapters I've bought in the US handle 120-220 (euro) automatically, but would require a socket adapter plug to convert the US plug to European.

I got this Kensington unit a few months ago for $30. after rebate

[jnglmassiv]

[what FatBaldGuy said and...]
Many of the switched mode power supplies, the type always (that I know of) used for laptops, compensate for worldwide AC voltages. For example, my Compaq unit gives "INPUT: 100-240V~1.5A 50-60Hz"
This covers most nations and certainly German power supplies.

You may, as mentioned in the OP, need an adaptor to use with American slotted outlets. Look for one that is just an adaptor, that is, no transformers or circuitry.

[astro]

As an additional note you might want to use a simple DC multitester (not sure what they're called in Germany) to confirm that it's an adapter DC output problem and not the notebook internal power circuitry or a battery issue before purchasing a new adapter.

[Schnitte]

I see. Thanks to all of you!