Voltage Converter Burned

Don't do that again, if when you buy a new one.

You fed 220V into the 110V coil and released the magic smoke.

Recycle the stinky one and BE CAREFUL next time.

but is there still a way of fixing it?

If you can find a replacement transformer (and that's a big IF), and if you haven't destroyed any other components such as switches, contacts or wiring, and if you know how to solder and can replace any parts that you have destroyed, and if it works properly when you have repaired it (another big IF), and if it doesn't still stink like a burned up mess, and IF you are honest with the person who loaned it to you, maybe.

You should buy the poor soul who loaned it to you a new one!

Then, if you are capable, you can repair the one YOU destroyed for yourself.

Do you have a DVM? Soldering Iron and solder/flux? Any experience?

Sorry, most likely not. Bite the bullet and buy a new one. Some lessons are expensive.

That is what I said, but said much better. Gave you a good vote.

The replacement parts, after market, will cost you more than a new converter. The manufacturer buys the parts in large quantities thereby securing a lower price than you could ever get.

looks like it can also convert money to smoke when operated incorrectly

tnx alot guys.. its just that it wasnt mine and i was wondering if i could still get something from fixing it.. i guess ill be buying a new one.. kudos

http://www.amazon.com/Goldsource%C2%AE-Voltage-Converter-Transformer-ST500/dp/B0022QOSDK

Yes, you can.

1)rewind new coil

2) buy a new one.

Buy the guy who loaned it to you a new one. If you have to ask this question you will probably burn up the repaired one before you are done. Sorry, but you joined the club of "education be error". In the future you will remember this lesson more than any book learning. Don't feel lonely, there are many of us in the club. If anyone says they never did this type of thing, they are probably a liar.

If you have a row boat and the burned-up unit weighs enough use it for an anchor.

Good Luck, Old Salt

Next time put an input fuse especially at 110V taping. Check the txr insulation, If it is ok clean it and try to varnish it again. If there is an insulation failure get it rewind. Idont think the other components like switches have an issue. However check the contact resistance and wiring.

Questionable if such a fuse will work fast enough. Some sort of adjustable crowbar (with a full wave rectifier) may be needed to get the speed up.....but there could even be better methods since I left the industry.....

Probably not as the current at 110V operation is double the current required for 220V operation which means the fuse would never be able to interrupt the circuit before severe damage occurs. (Inverter Power In = Inverter Power Out)

This is a classic case of equipment insulation damage from applying too high of voltage.

Some units have componentized circuitry in which the power supply can be replaced as a whole unit.

If the unit in question is of such assembly a call to the OEM might offer more cost efficient options.

If there is a competent electronic repair facility in the area the OP should be able to take the unit in for obtaining a repair estimate and warranty details.

This would yield a better way of deciding the best option of whether to repair or replace the unit.

In my opinion scrapping it and buying a new one is the best option especially since this can impact the OP's relationship with their friend.

Sheer coincidence(!) I have just sold a similar 500watt unit on Ebay!

It went for about £30 I think? but, there may be others?

jt.

Give a person a fish and you feed them for a day. Teach a person to use the Internet and they won't bother you for weeks, months, maybe even years.

The acrid smell is that of the burning insulation of the wiring, likely the coil windings of the internal transformer. As mentioned in theory one could find and replace that transformer, but there is no guarantee that this is the ONLY damage, so you might (likely) find the next failed component only AFTER you replace that, which might reveal the next one, then the next one, ad nauseum. So by the time you spend countless hours and treasure on this project, you will still end up so deep in the hole compared to just buying a replacement, that suicide will appear to be a viable option. Yet your friend will still not have a working converter, PLUS he now has to live with the guilt of having been party to your demise and feel responsible for supporting your survivors.

Do a favor to both of you and replace it now.