WTB: Large Two-Prong Connector or Complete 230VAC transformer

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KBLSLGR
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WTB: Large Two-Prong Connector or Complete 230VAC transformer

Post by KBLSLGR »

Hello all,

Recently, I've secured my first two VIC-20's. Both require the large two-prong connector (see attachment) and both came without a transformer :( Right now I am feeding my VIC-20 using a 230 VAC->9VAC transformer salvaged from a modem-rack and some crocodile clams. Ideally, I'd solder an original two-prong connector to my transformer. I'd rather not perform plastic surgery on my beloved computer to add a more convenient power connector.

I am therefore looking for either a suitable connector (Like I said, I have got some 230VAC -> 9VAC transformers here) or a complete European transformer (for the authenticate experience).

Can someone help me out here?

Cheers!
Attachments
20151202_003.jpg
elwee
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Re: WTB: Large Two-Prong Connector or Complete 230VAC transformer

Post by elwee »

Hi,
building a replacement transformer for my 2prong VIC20, I made use of a connector (including the cable) of an old electric shaver. Just cutted off the power connector.
Officially it's only suitable up to a very little ampere value, but of course in case of 230 volts. As the transformer outputs only 9V and a max of 3A, I gave it a try, and so far without any suspicious behaviours.
Maybe it's a solution for your demand?

Cheers
elwee
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KBLSLGR
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Re: WTB: Large Two-Prong Connector or Complete 230VAC transformer

Post by KBLSLGR »

Could you maybe upload a picture of your connector? I am curious what connector you used. I've seen a couple of different once at a local thrift shop, but none of them looked like an ideal fit.
elwee
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Re: WTB: Large Two-Prong Connector or Complete 230VAC transformer

Post by elwee »

I'm sorry I have to disappoint you, but right now I recognize that you're VIC has a divisor between it's 2 prongs. That's completly different to the US VIC I have here on hand. So my solution never will suit your demand. Apologies.
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KBLSLGR
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Re: WTB: Large Two-Prong Connector or Complete 230VAC transformer

Post by KBLSLGR »

No problem! I sort of expected that already. The spacing between pins of an electric shaver plug is about 6 mm, whereas I am looking for something with a spacing of 10mm ~ 11mm (according to my own inaccurate measurement).

I am considering replacing the connector on my second (more recent, having a higher serial number) VIC-20 with something more workable.
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Mayhem
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Re: WTB: Large Two-Prong Connector or Complete 230VAC transformer

Post by Mayhem »

If anyone has a similar power supply but for the UK market, please let me know :)
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KBLSLGR
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Re: WTB: Large Two-Prong Connector or Complete 230VAC transformer

Post by KBLSLGR »

But if you are willing to ship it to another European state, I'd like to think I'm still first in line ;) A UK plug is easily converted to one used on the other side of the channel! I promise not to butcher anything but use a proper travel adapter.
elwee
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Re: WTB: Large Two-Prong Connector or Complete 230VAC transformer

Post by elwee »

Just for completeness:
IMG_20151209_193442495.jpg
IMG_20151209_193502937.jpg
IMG_20151209_193540188.jpg
This is what I were talking about.
elwee
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Re: WTB: Large Two-Prong Connector or Complete 230VAC transformer

Post by elwee »

Does anyboday have info why my and KBLSLGR VIC prongs differ?
Differences in manufacturing years? Or only again C's way of using what ever was available?
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srowe
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Re: WTB: Large Two-Prong Connector or Complete 230VAC transformer

Post by srowe »

elwee wrote:Does anyboday have info why my and KBLSLGR VIC prongs differ?
Differences in manufacturing years? Or only again C's way of using what ever was available?
You have the very earliest model, essentially a US-made VIC-1001. KBLSLGR's is the more usual initial model, the cost-reduced models use the DIN socket.
elwee
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Re: WTB: Large Two-Prong Connector or Complete 230VAC transformer

Post by elwee »

Ouh, I got it I think. KBLSLGR never told anything about that his VIC is a US one, but somehow I got under the impression... :oops:
To me it now looks more like his one in an old PAL unit.
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KBLSLGR
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Re: WTB: Large Two-Prong Connector or Complete 230VAC transformer

Post by KBLSLGR »

elwee wrote:Ouh, I got it I think. KBLSLGR never told anything about that his VIC is a US one, but somehow I got under the impression... :oops:
To me it now looks more like his one in an old PAL unit.
I think you are interpreting srowe's words wrong. I do have a PAL-model, like you, but one that's a bit younger and has a different plug.
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srowe
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Re: WTB: Large Two-Prong Connector or Complete 230VAC transformer

Post by srowe »

Elwee, is your's a PAL model? Could you take a picture of the label on the bottom?
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Mayhem
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Re: WTB: Large Two-Prong Connector or Complete 230VAC transformer

Post by Mayhem »

My other PAL Vic20 is the same as Elwee. Two prong with the same connector into the computer.
Lie with passion and be forever damned...
elwee
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Re: WTB: Large Two-Prong Connector or Complete 230VAC transformer

Post by elwee »

As written before:

mine is a US one (in the meaning of NTSC model).
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