Job Discussion Forums

scott14 · Joined: 30 Oct 2004 Posts: 50

Can I charge and use my 220 volt Philipinnes Nokia phone in Taiwan where they use the 110 volt charging systems? I tried asking Nokia and they were ignorant about the concept. Thanks in advance for your assistance.

daily chai · Joined: 16 Nov 2003 Posts: 150 Location: Brussels

I used my 220-volt European no-brand phone in Taiwan. Uses a plug-n voltage convertor, which are widely available. Picked mine up at NASA (name?), the underground electronics store in across from Taipei Main Station. I also bought one at the discount electronis/computer market around Chungxiao (Fuxing?)--on the brown line, if memory serves. I only went there once. If you get off at the stop, the regional map in the station will show you where the electronics market is. Just ask someone which Chungxiao stop it is (there are two) and you will find it. Bring the charger with you to show the person how many watts you need, or write it down.

The only proviso is when you charge the phone, you'll need to watch when it's fully recharged. You can't keep it plugged in overnight or the adaptor will overheat and burnout. (Hence the second one I bought at the electronics market.) The adaptors are under USD10. Much cheaper than buying a new Nokia.

My European phone is on a comparable bandwidth as in Taiwan, so I could buy a SIM card and use it in right away. However, some countries are in a different bandwidth. I'm not sure about the Phillipines. That is the primary question you should ask Nokia.

You should know that there is a questionable government law now in place that you have to bring your passport with you to register when you buy a SIM card. My guess is it is to facilitate knowing whom you are eavesdroppping on.

Best of luck to you. Whatever happens, its likely you'll make more money in Taiwan; which will cover a new Nokia if all else fails.

scott14 · Joined: 30 Oct 2004 Posts: 50

Thanks for the reply. I am still waiting for a reply from Nokia, but I believe cell phones are the same as laptops. Just have to have the right plug. Thanks again

Aristotle · Joined: 16 Jan 2003 Posts: 1388 Location: Taiwan

As all cell phones run on DC current from the battery, all you need to do is buy a 110V/ ?DC voltage adapter from one of the thousands of cell phone shops on Taiwan.
Now weather or not your cell phone works on the same Cellular frequency and grid is another matter. Older phones will not convert to different cellular grids (different countries). Newer ones will convert as soon as you put in a local Sim card or open an account.
Good luck,
A.