This approach typically involves the design of one model of a product for sale in North American markets where the voltages are 120V at 60Hz and a second model for sale in export markets where power supply voltages range, for the most part, from 100–250V at 50Hz.

This approach is especially attractive in those situations in which the power supply cannot conveniently be designed to switch between voltages and frequency ratings. A country-specific strategy with a permanently attached power cord may provide a cost-effective alternative where large volumes of low value products are being shipped into one market (hair driers to Germany, for example).

To aid you in preparing products for specific countries, see the Guide to Worldwide Plug/Socket Standards, Voltages & Single-phase Frequencies.

Strategy 2:
Design ONE (Universal) model to be sold in all markets (see Design for "Universal" Products)

This approach is the choice of a growing number of designers and manufacturers because it allows one single product to be manufactured and sold worldwide. This approach is especially advantageous for the North American equipment manufacturer, who currently enjoys the largest homogeneous home market in the world.

The advantage of economies of scale can frequently be translated into a significant competitive edge in markets in which the competition is essentially local in character.

Strategy 3:
U.S. input: 230V • International input: 220–240V

One design approach which will minimize, but not eliminate differences between North American and export models of higher current products is to utilize a 230V input for the U.S. and 220–240V for export markets. Although this will not eliminate the need for different power cords, depending on the market, it will allow common circuit protection and power supply. This is true, provided that the power supply accepts 50 and 60Hz power.

One development that makes this alternative more attractive is the European decision to shift to a 230V electrical distribution system (from 220 and 240V systems) by 2003 (see yellow box on Design for "Universal" Products for more information). Please note that this is not an option for equipment with three-phase power inputs since the most standard three-phase inputs are 208V in North America and 220–400V in export markets.

Strategy 4:
Exporting products already designed for the U.S. only

Finally, manufacturers occasionally are interested in exporting, in small quantities, products already designed which comply with North American requirements only. Because of the small quantities involved, it may not be economical to redesign them to operate at 220–240 VAC/50Hz. Furthermore, if these products are used in industrial or commercial environments, agency approvals are desirable, but not essential (unless required by law).

The manufacturer can still export a user-friendly product with minimal re-engineering by adding:

• A step-down transformer designed for service at 50Hz
• An IEC 60320 power inlet
• An appropriate RFI filter so that the product satisfies European EMC regulations
• A circuit protection device
• An appropriate cordset (or power cord if the load exceeds 10A at 220V)

This solution will work if the power supply will operate on 50Hz power. If it operates only on 60Hz power, a 50–60Hz power supply may be necessary. Transformers with these specifications are described in the Transformer section. It is important to assure that the product does qualify for the CE Marking.