Hakko soldering station with AC transformer

[namlu]

Hello.

Is it possible to use USA hakko 888 soldering station (110v, 70w) with 200w AC transformer 220v to 110v.
I saw a cheap transformer on amazon, with good reviews:
http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B000W9DJ1Q/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?qid=1405199418&sr=8-1&pi=SY200_QL40

Is it enough power, or stronger transformer should be used? Some things they write on the description made me skeptical;

"Televisions, Heating appliances, Laser printers, Halogen & fluorescent bulbs and power tools spike when you turn them on. For these products you need to buy a voltage converter transformer that is at least 3-4 times the items capacity."

"Do Not Use with Hair Dryers, Hair Straightners, Tools and other Household Appliances."

Yes or no?


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[mariush]

That voltage converter on Amazon is not a transformer, it has some components inside that alter the AC waveform so that devices think it's 110v. 

It's not safe to use it with the Hakko soldering station (and lots of other devices) you need a proper 60-70w or better transformer.

The AC voltage is plain 24v, so you can find transformers easily:



Example transformers:

50VA: http://uk.farnell.com/multicomp/mcta050-12/transformer-toroidal-2-x-12v-50va/dp/9530363
60VA : http://uk.farnell.com/multicomp/mcta060-12/transformer-toroidal-2-x-12v-60va/dp/9530428
80VA : http://uk.farnell.com/multicomp/mcta080-12/transformer-toroidal-2-x-12v-80va/dp/9532706

Check diameter. 
You can use transformers rated for less than 75-80VA (the amount the original transformer is rated for), it will just warm up a bit slower initially and otherwise it will work fine.
Alternatively, if you want to use cheaper non-toroidal transformers, you can put the transformer in a box under the desk and just replace the mains coord with 24v AC coming from your transformer under the desk, leaving the original transformer inside for weight, to keep the station stable on your desk.

examples

50VA: http://uk.farnell.com/pro-power/ctfcs50-12/transformer-50va-2-x-12v/dp/1780891
100VA: http://uk.farnell.com/pro-power/ctfcs100-12u/transformer-100va-2-x-12v/dp/1780896

[nanofrog]

Definitely NO on the unit you linked.

Example of a step down transformer that will happily work with it without any damage to either device (it's just a transformer w/ EU or UK plug + receptacles). No modification required; just plug it all in, and you're off.

You can even make one very easily, but it's likely cheaper to buy it ready made (they're not paying retail for the parts used to make it like you would).

If you mean to get more 110/120V equipment from the US (that cannot run on 230V mains on it's own), then you should get a larger unit IMHO (cheaper in the long run, and less clutter from multiple small ones). The US might be worth looking at as a source, if the shipping works out in your favor.

Your other alternative is to get an appropriate transformer and modify the Hakko as mentioned. As per modification, I wouldn't be concerned with invalidating the warranty, as it's grey market (imported via unofficial channels for your market). Up to you which way to go (i.e. do you prefer to hack, or will price be the deciding factor). 

Hope this helps, and good luck.