Job Discussion Forums

Bryanpass · Joined: 12 Jul 2005 Posts: 24 Location: Kaohsiung

Whilst searching the archvies, I've read some stories about power surges playing havoc with electronic devices. Anyone have any recent stories on how their computers, etc. are fairing? How reliable is the power grid down south in the Kaohsiung area? Are surge protectors/line conditioners a good idea?

As well - I know that Taiwan is 120v/60 Hz, but I've had little luck in finding out what kind of plugs they use. Will I need to pack a few adaptors before I go, or will North American 2/3 prong plugs work?

TIA

Girl Scout · Joined: 13 Jan 2005 Posts: 525 Location: Inbetween worlds

Surge protector are a good idea for your delicate equipment, your computer, but for most other electronics it is unnesseccary. I wouldn't plug my computer in at home without a surge protector.

Standard north american plugs work in Taiwan. You may need the occasional three prong adapter, but you can find them here.

I don't live down south so I can't give you any information about the conditions.

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

The standard 110/120 V plug with two parallel prongs is the most widely used on Taiwan. The ground prong is usually broken off as ground wires (built in surge protectors) are not built into buildings or houses on Taiwan.
Many things remain at third world levels and the power supply in the South of Taiwan is one of them. A surge protector is a must, two would be even better as it is hard to tell if the ones bought on Taiwan will do the job.
Taipei has the best infrastructure and many areas are up to western standards.
Electricity and plumbing still leave something to be desired in most areas outside of Taipei.
Prospective Taiwan teachers.
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A.