Electrical Devices and Power

On this page you will find some information about electric supply in Germany.

By clicking on the titles or triangles you can expand or collapse the topics one by one; the buttons below do so for all with a single click.
  

Electricity Voltage and Frequency

  • Voltage: Germany operates on 230 volt supply, which is different from the 120 volts used in some countries, such as the United States and Canada.
  • Frequency: The frequency of the electrical supply is 50 Hz.

Sockets and Plugs

We have the so-called “Schuko” system – the name is the abbreviation for “Schutzkontakt” meaning “protective contact”. This system is also known as “Type F”.

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The Schuko plug has two round pins with the two current-carrying contacts slightly deeper inside – this ensures that when you plug in the device the live contacts are out of reach.

It is similar to a Type E plug; however, instead of a hole for the earth pin, it has two earth clips on the sides as protective contacts.

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The Schuko plugs are the opposite (the two on the left). In addition, there are simpler and slimmer plugs not featuring the protective contacts as seen in the right hand image – they are called “Eurostecker” (Euro plugs) as well as “Type C”.

Voltage Converters and Transformers

  • Voltage Compatibility: Check if your electronic devices support 230 volts. Many modern electronic devices such as laptops, smartphones, and cameras automatically adapt to different voltages (usually indicated by "100-240 V, 50/60 Hz" on the label). Others have a switch to select the voltage.
  • Converters and Transformers are needed for single-voltage devices like some hair dryers, electric razors, or other small appliances.

Charging Devices

  • USB Chargers: Consider bringing a multi-port USB charger that supports 230V. This allows you to charge several devices like smartphones, tablets, and other USB-powered devices simultaneously.
  • Power Strips: A power strip with surge protection and multiple sockets can be useful; make sure it supports 230V if you bring one.

Local Purchase Options

  • Electronics Stores: If you need to buy adapters, chargers, or other electrical accessories, you will find quite a few electronics stores in the area such as MediaMarkt and Saturn. As mentioned in the section on mobile phones, one of the options closest to the event hotel is “Akia” at the airport.


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