Peripheral Transformers?

[Sam Ceccola]

Many PC external products come with transformers. Based upon equal Input and Output rating, does anyone ever save them if the product is being tossed?

Just as an example, if one came with my scanner and it's Input and Output rating is the same, can I use it on a printer? Whether or not the printer and the scanner was the same manufacturer.

Curiosity question,
Sam

[compusimple]

Be careful that the polarity is right for the device and that the current rating of the xfrmr is adequate.

Elliott

[Sam Ceccola]

Be careful that the polarity is right for the device and that the current rating of the xfrmr is adequate.

Elliott
In other words, the best thing to do is to throw them away. That's what I thought.

Thanks,
Sam

[Seth]

In other words, the best thing to do is to throw them away. That's what I thought.

Thanks,
Sam

I keep all my extra adapters, they always come in handy. What to consider:

1) Voltage. Most devices will run fine if you're within about 1 volt. Be carefull, some adapters that you think are DC, actually put out AC. 99% of the time, the adapter will specify. Note: The adapter wire with a grey or white line is the negative wire.

2) Does the device draw more amperage than the adapter can provide?

3) Polarity. Near the adapter plug on the device, as well as the adapter itself, you will see this:
http://www.ratocsystems.com/english/products/subpages/images/ACadapter.gif

The above means that the center pin on the adapter needs to be positive. If it is not, you simply have to cut the adapter wires and reverse them...provided of course that the plug fits the device. If the plug doesn't fit, you can cut one off another adapter.