If you’re traveling on an Indian Railways train, you’ll find convenient charging sockets near your seat. These sockets provide 110V AC power, which is enough to charge most electronic devices, including laptops, tablets, and smartphones.
Why not use 220V AC, which is the standard voltage for most household appliances?
There are a few reasons why Indian Railways uses 110V AC instead of 220V AC for charging sockets in trains:
- Safety: 110V AC is considered a safer voltage for use in passenger compartments, minimizing the risk of electrical shock or damage to equipment.
- Compatibility: 110V AC is compatible with a wider range of electronic devices, including older models that may not be able to handle higher voltages.
- Efficiency: 110V AC is relatively efficient for power transmission, requiring less infrastructure compared to 220V AC. This translates into lower energy losses and reduced costs for Indian Railways.
- Standardization: 110V AC is a common voltage standard in many countries, catering to international passengers who may also use the charging sockets.
- Existing infrastructure: Indian Railways has a vast network of trains, many of which were built before the widespread adoption of 220V AC power supply. Using 110V AC allows for easier integration with the existing electrical infrastructure on these trains, avoiding the need for costly upgrades.