My company manufacturers external high capacity disk drive systems (computer peripherals) which are shipped worldwide.
North American shipments include an ac-dc direct plug-in power supply. International shipments include an ac-dc "desk-top" power supply along with the appropriate detachable cord set. All the power supplies we use are UL-Listed, TUV, CSA, and SAA certified. Cordsets carry all the appropriate certifications/approvals. There have been some grumblings internally because of the many international system "configurations" that must be maintained due to the number of different cord-sets. Depending on where a particular drive is being sent dictates the type of cord set that is included. This introduces additional control, inventory, and warehousing problems. One suggestion that has been made is to ship one style of cord (or power supply) with several different plug adapters. Then we wouldn't have to worry so much about what power cord goes with what drive. For example, in South America the direct plug-in power supply could be provided along with the Euro and Australian style plug adapters. In Europe, the "desk-top" power supply and Euro-style cord-set could be provided along with a UK style plug adapter. I am not comfortable with this at all and am hoping that some of you out there have had some experience with these types of plug adapters. My questions/concerns are: * How can the connection to the AC mains be ensured when using a plug adapter? * One company claims they have a UL recognized plug adapter. However, I can't find anything more with regards to safety certifications. I don't think TUV will even certify this type of adapter. What about the other agencies? * Does anyone have any additional recommendations to help accommodate the various worldwide plug styles? I got to believe others have gone through this same "dilemma". * How "acceptable" is it to provide a product without a cord and just have the user procure the cord set applicable for their particular country? * Is anyone aware of other manufacturers that include plug adapters with their products? * Which is worse? Providing the direct plug-in power supply with plug adapters, or providing the "desk-top" power supply and detachable cord set with plug adapters. Any and all information is appreciated as I am once again in the unenviable position of potentially squashing another brilliant marketing idea. Maybe I'm making a big deal out of nothing, but as soon as someone starts changing the product interfaces with the AC-mains I get a little nervous. Thanks, Craig Hensley Iomega Corp. Roy, UT. --------- This message is coming from the emc-pstc discussion list. To cancel your subscription, send mail to [email protected] with the single line: "unsubscribe emc-pstc" (without the quotes). For help, send mail to [email protected], [email protected], [email protected], or [email protected] (the list administrators).
