What Is Voltage Conversion for Claw Machines? Export Electrical Guide
Voltage conversion in the context of claw machines refers to configuring or modifying a machine's electrical system to operate safely on the local power supply voltage of the destination country — typically either 110V (60Hz) used in North America and parts of Latin America, or 220–240V (50Hz) used across Europe, Asia, Australia, and Africa.
Incorrect voltage is one of the leading causes of immediate component failure on imported arcade machines. Confirming voltage compatibility before powering on is critical.
Global Voltage Standards
| Region | Standard Voltage | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| USA, Canada, Mexico | 110–120V | 60Hz |
| UK, Europe, Australia | 220–240V | 50Hz |
| Japan | 100V | 50/60Hz (regional) |
| China, Southeast Asia | 220V | 50Hz |
| Middle East, Africa | 220–240V | 50Hz |
| Brazil | 127V or 220V (varies by state) | 60Hz |
How Is Voltage Conversion Handled?
| Method | How It Works | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Dual-voltage PSU | Built-in switch or auto-sensing for 110V/220V | Export machines, global distributors |
| Voltage selector switch | Manual switch on PSU set before first power-on | Machines with fixed PSU |
| External step-down transformer | Converts local voltage to machine's rated input | Field conversion without internal modification |
| PSU replacement | Replace existing PSU with correct-voltage unit | Single-voltage machines being relocated |
What Happens If Voltage Is Wrong?
- 110V machine on 220V supply — immediate PSU failure, possible motor and board damage
- 220V machine on 110V supply — machine runs underpowered: motors sluggish, claw weak, lighting dim; PSU may overheat
- Wrong frequency (50Hz vs 60Hz) — minor effect on most modern switching PSUs; can affect AC motors on older machines
Voltage Conversion Checklist for Export Orders
- Confirm destination country voltage and frequency
- Verify PSU input rating (label on PSU unit inside cabinet)
- If dual-voltage: confirm selector switch position before shipping
- If single-voltage: order correct-voltage PSU or include step-down transformer
- Confirm plug/outlet type for destination (Type A, B, C, G, I, etc.)
- Test machine at correct voltage before shipping if possible
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Related Terms
- What Is an OEM Claw Machine? — Voltage is a key OEM export spec
- What Is a Main Board? — Board voltage compatibility
- What Is Preventive Maintenance? — Electrical checks in maintenance schedule
- What Is a Claw Machine? — Full overview
- Full Arcade Glossary — All 70+ terms defined