The Logistics of Settling In 141The difference between 50 and 60 cycles is not significant
for most equipment—most simply run more slowly. Cyclical
differences cause a problem with items that use alternating
currents to produce a given speed of operation, e.g. clocks.
Some modern appliances operate on direct current, thus have
no problem. Others can operate on either 50 or 60 cycles.
Check your appliances to see if they will work at 50 cycles
before bringing them to find out.
Since Egyptian current varies between 200 and 240 volts,
voltage regulators/stabilisers should be used to convert an
uneven voltage input to a rather steady output. Voltage
regulators/transformers are available in Egypt. These will also
convert 220 volt current to 110 volt current. My experience
is this: I have shot fire out of more than one hairdryer at
my head and somehow managed to come out with my
hair intact. Since then, I got wise and bought a cheap
hairdryer in Egypt! It works without me trying to figure
out what kind of transformer I need. I have also burned
up a printer and several other things over the course of
a few years.
A special note for those bringing computers. Prior to
leaving, determine what you will need to operate your
computer on 220 volts 50 cycles. You may only need to flip
a switch on the back of the computer to change currents. If
your computer doesn’t have that, you will need a transformer
to convert the current to 110/120 volts 50 cycles. A voltage
regulator is definitely a necessity to protect the computer
from current fluctuations. Blank CDs and diskettes can
all be found easily in Egypt, though are probably much
more expensive than bringing a large package from your
home country.
TVs, Radios, and VCRs
US-made TVs (NTSC system) will not work in Egypt (which
uses the PAL-SECAM system), but you can purchase sets in
Egypt. VCRs are available in Egypt that adjust to all three
systems, but they are expensive. You will need a shortwave
radio receiver if you wish to get Voice of America or BBC
radio. The best thing is to get satellite dish for TV—once it