Know the limitations of this 'Converter Kit' and don't get burned
596645
The description of this product (<a data-hook="product-link-linked" class="a-link-normal" href="/Samsonite-Converter-Adapter-Plug-Kit-with-Pouch/dp/B00BQLSP68/ref=cm_cr_arp_d_rvw_txt?ie=UTF8">Samsonite Converter/Adapter Plug Kit with Pouch</a>) says: "1600 watt converter to transform 220V electricity to 110V", and "applications including most travel irons, hair dryers and garment steamers". Only when you received the actual product will you see this WARNING printed on the back: "Do not use with power tools or electronic circuitry (i.e. computers, fax machines, TVs, VCRs, stereos, battery chargers, etc.)"

To convert a 220V sinusoidal waveform into 110V sinusoidal waveform, you need an AC transformer. This is the only safe way to operate 110V-only electronic devices from 220V outlets. This converter, on the other hand, simply uses an electronic switch to 'chop' the 220V sinusoidal input voltage into smaller segments, such that the average power delivered to output load is reduced. This is the same principle used by most incandescent lamp dimmers. It works reasonably well for simple HEATING appliances, such as travel irons or hair dryers. But if you try to power an 110V-only electronic appliance through this converter, the high-voltage stress will likely cause the appliance to break down and burn out within seconds!

This is not to say that this product is completely useless, only that you have to be EXTREMELY careful about what you can plug into it. Unfortunately, some appliances fall into the grey area between 'heating' and 'electronic'. For example, most people will classify a curling iron (hair straightener) as a heating appliance. Yet it contains electronic circuit and will be damaged by this converter.

The good news is that most portable electronics (such as chargers for cameras, cell phones, laptops, etc) are already designed to handle universal input voltage. Check the AC adapter of your appliance to make sure. If it says "Input: 100 - 240V AC", then you don't have to use a voltage converter at all. All you need is a set of adapter plugs (such as the inexpensive&nbsp;<a data-hook="product-link-linked" class="a-link-normal" href="/Travel-Smart-Polarized-Adapter-Plug-5-Piece-Set/dp/B007UNE2J0/ref=cm_cr_arp_d_rvw_txt?ie=UTF8">Travel Smart Polarized Adapter Plug 5 Piece Set</a>), which allows you to physically plug into AC outlets in other countries, and you are good to go.

Finally, check with the hotel of your destination to see if your room is already equipped with a hair dryer. If that is the case, you'll have two less items to pack for your trip.
3528931
When I saw universal I did not know a power converter would be needed. Apparently I didn't read enough of the description
4834677
A nice little gadget, as long as you download the most recent firmware; although I was utterly disappointed with the error that Linksys put in their specs for this product. They stated that the supplied power adapter had a voltage range of 100V to 250V - utter rubbish. I only bought it to use for 240V in Europe and have had to go well out of my way to find it an alternative power source. Also there is no MacIntosh driver, however it is possible to configure the device through a web browser. They also fail to mention that the hard disc that is to be used with the device ought to be formatted by the device before use; download the latest firmware to get round this problem and it all 'sort of works okay'. Good luck.
3050688
Be careful if you're using this to setup a Zmodo DVR + camera system. The AC adapter will fit into both the DVR and the power cabling for the cameras. This is bad because the power draws are different. The build quality seems to be on par with other Zmodo products. Its a bit cheap but gets the job done. I've had it running reliably 24/7 for several months w/o any hiccups.
15610
I have used this step-down converter in France and the UK with zero problems. Even though most AC-to-DC adapters nowadays accept up to 240V, bringing this along can be useful. It is fairly heavy and chunky, but all step-down transformers are. It would be nice if it had an integrated USB port or two but the price is under $20 so not going to complain much.
1907732
I intended to connect multiple LED's to a DC power converter, but quickly discovered the converter I had was not powerful enough to run all four LED strips.  I was able to run two strips from the poor quality convert I have and am waiting to upgrade it so I can go back to my original plan and use just one converter for all of my lighting.
3987607
Item worked fine! But unless you are very technically inclined, do not attempt it yourself. Check youtube videos and decide if it is something you feel comfortable doing.
2014614
The problem with this unit is that it is very poorly engineered.  It's OK for the price, but don't expect to get anywhere near half of the rated amperage (12A).  I'm running about 3.75A on the unit and the wires get very hot after a few minutes of continuous use.  I would go as far as saying it's not safe to use for anything over 4A.  In order to make use of the device at the current rate I was drawing, I had to replace the wiring at both ends with heavier gauge wiring.  Be careful with this device.  It may be suitable for ONE roll (5M) of 5050 LED strips.  Any more than that and you're asking for trouble.
427633
Works great for such an economically priced converter.
1208474
The converter performs acceptably but could be better.  Most often, when connecting it, the order in which power is connected is critical.  I have found that if the signal is not getting through, experiment with un-plugging the power supply and re-connecting everything - most times that resolves the issue.  In short, the performance of this equipment is acceptable, but not perfect.  I do now have the ability to view some VHS tapes that I thought had been lost to technology.  If the company develops an improved version that they claim will perform better, I will probably try it.
4743499
This product works ok.  The converter part does get pretty warm so one should be careful where you lay the converter.
2877568
Good kit. Don't plan on a set of instructions helping. If you cannot already read a simple electrical schematic, this kit is not for you. If, however, you're mildly curious and willing to google stuff, this kit is a great way for beginners to learn some very basic PCB skills. Be aware, power output is VERY overstated. There's no way your going to get the rated voltage and current out of this power supply. If you are an electronics geek or a packrat, skip the included transformer and scab in a 12v 1a wall wort power supply. But, all things considered, this item does have some simple functionality beyond a simple power supply. Fun to build, good learning tool. I've been an aircraft avionics technician for 20+ years, and this is one of the kits I'd choose to teach a youngster some basic skills.
2387647
Thankfully I only bought a couple to test - these are European and need a converter if you live in the USA.
1302038
If you work with I2C, this is the ticket. Very simple to use, but extremely useful. Be aware it's not a scope, only meant for logic levels.
I made a level converter with a couple of LM339s (open-collector), so even working with +12/+24 is no longer an issue. The only gotcha' I have found is that if you leave it hooked up without USB power, it will hang an I2C bus (no biggie'). Great value.
3006980
Nice design.  A decent carrying case would be appreciated.  This converter would not run my wife's curling iron. It works fine for devices with lower amperage needs.
2616567
This converter is only used because our system is older and needs a TV signal in parts of the system. It works.
1139311
I've used the product for about a week and so far it works great! Will edit this review if it fails for some reason (as a few other converters by different companies have in the past after a few months).