richard@log-hb.UUCP (06/13/86)
I haul a Macintosh+ and a DataFrame 20 between Sweden and San Diego quite
often.
I use a 300VA 220->110 half-transformer, and have never had any trouble. The
Mac+ and the hard disk work perfectly. (I also use a Compaq portable, also
without problem.) A very handy item to buy while you are in the States
is a grounded power strip. They are almost impossible to buy abroad. I
just spliced it onto the 110 end of my transformer.
BTW, the DataFrame has a jumper that selects between 220 and 110
volts. I never change it, however, because my transformer can handle
both the Mac+ and the hard disk. (If you get it wrong, your disk
drive is totaled. I lose enough sleep at nights as it is.)
I own a U.S. Imagewriter II, but did not bring it to Sweden. According
to some service techs, the U.S. Imagewriter II cannot handle 50Hz at
all. DOES ANYONE HAVE ANY DIRECT EXPERIENCE WITH THIS? (The original
Imagewriter can, according to the same sources.)
About planes..
Since the usual length of my trips is about 10 weeks, I tend to have
quite a lot of luggage, most of it very dear.
I lug my Mac+ and DataFrame around in a "MacPacks" case purchased through mail-
order from Computer Ware in Palo Alto. (They're neat folks BTW.)
The case fits in the overhead compartment of all the jumbos I've flown. As
insurance, however, I usually call the station manager of the airline I'm
flying a week or two before my flight leaves. If you talk nicely to him or
her, and get their name, you can usually get much better treatment when you
check in.
ALWAYS follow up such extra-special treatment with an "orchid" letter -
it really helps the person get promoted. Also, a little advance phone
work shopping for different airlines might help you find the most
helpful airline.
The last time I flew, I had my Compaq, my Mac+ and another bag of cameras.
They let me take it all on board. (The plane was only half full.)
If you want to check valuable stuff, you can buy the expensive airline
containers others have suggested. A lower-cost alternative is to buy
Igloo coolers. Then pack the stuff in the cooler surrounded by T-shirts
and such, and wrap the cooler with lots of duct tape. Simple
indestructible! (The airline might make you sign a liability waiver,
but they're just jealous!) If you are going through customs, it is a good
idea to have a roll of duct tape with you. You might have to open the
case.
--
-- Richard Kaufmann ARPA: richard@ucsd.arpa
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